From coral reefs to Everglades habitats, state parks with camping in South Florida and the Florida Keys may be few but they are distinguished. (3rd in a series)
Recent Articles
Florida botanical gardens: Spectacular scenery at 21 special sites
People have always loved Florida botanical gardens. Some specialize in orchids or water lilies or bonsai or native plants. As you make travel plans, consider adding one of these to your itinerary.
Gainesville-Hawthorne: One of state’s best bike trails
Load your bikes on your carrier and head north to Old Florida. Along this bike trail, you can stop and hike a bit and maybe even see gators, wild horses or even bison in Paynes Prairie. This pretty paved trail also lets you use your gears on a hill or two.
Winter Garden: Old Florida town thrives around great bike trail
Here’s a great weekend getaway for bicyclists. The appealing West Orange Trail, a 22-mile rail-trail, goes right down the middle of the lively main street in Downtown Winter Garden. Stay in the Historic Edgewater Hotel for a great base with Old Florida charm.
Weeki Wachee Springs: Kayaking, manatees and mermaids
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is known for its iconic mermaid show and water park. The gorgeous spring-fed river is also a great place for kayak and SUP rentals, although the route from the park has been shortened.
Panhandle state parks with camping run the gamut from deep woods to pristine beaches
There are 14 Florida state parks with camping in the Panhandle, and many are on spectacular sugar-sand Gulf beaches.
Barefoot Beach, one of best beaches in America, is wild and wonderful
Barefoot Beach in Bonita Springs occupies one of the last undeveloped barrier islands on Florida’s southwest coast.
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, Jupiter: Florida wildlife in a free park-like setting
Animal lovers and particularly families will enjoy this free wildlife sanctuary. Located in a green and shaded setting, it showcases native critters from panthers and black bears to bald eagles and otters.
Lake Louisa: Nature near Orlando with great hiking, cabins
Lake Louisa State Park is a half hour from theme parks, but is a natural world with 20 miles of hiking trails and great cabins. Located on the east end of the vast Green Swamp, you’ll find wildlife, old citrus groves, hills, cypress swamps and forests.
Kingsley Plantation: Moving tale of slavery unique to Florida
Black History Month: A story of slaves and slave holders that may surprise you.