Getaways to the Authentic Florida
Prime camping season arrives in Florida when the humidity dissipates, but don’t wait until the last minute because the snowbirds will soon sweep into the state in their RVs. This year will be especially challenging because many campgrounds in Florida’s Panhandle will likely be closed for months in the wake of Hurricane Michael.
If you’re lucky, you can see manatees in lots of waterways around Florida, but here are a few locations where, in winter, you can reliably admire these charming creatures — and even kayak with them.
Selby Garden contains the most diverse living and preserved collection of of orchids and bromeliads in the world with thousands of species represented.
Holiday houseguests? If you’re lucky, they love the outdoors and you can take them on any and every authentic adventure that Florida Rambler covers. But what if your guests like their nature a little tamer? Here are recommendations for daytrips in southeast Florida that are my go-to spots for visitors.
One of the best Florida bike trails – the Jacksonville-Baldwin Trail – is a well-shaded rural trail that makes a stop at a rare-for-Florida Civil War site.
This large state park in a rural, out-of-the-way part of Central Florida, preserves Old Florida cracker history. It offers great hiking trails and camping plus lakes to explore by kayak or canoe. Wildlife, from deer to alligators to sandhill cranes to eagles, is abundant.
Naples is a wealthy enclave with lush, tropical neighborhoods and lots of natural beauty close and accessible. Here’s a guide to things to do outdoors in Naples and surrounding areas.
The true sign of fall in South Florida: Lines start forming at Knaus Berry Farms. This 50-year-old institution south of Miami has generations of devoted fans. It’s a good stop for an Everglades trip or a day exploring the Redland.
