Encompassing more than 600 square miles in North Central Florida, Ocala National Forest is your playground for adventure.
Tag: birds
Ancient oaks caress the soul at Highlands Hammock State Park
Old-growth live oaks draped in air plants and Spanish moss dominate 9,000-acre Highlands Hammock State Park, one of Florida’s original state parks.
Oscar Scherer State Park: Suburban oasis with camping, paddling, top-rated bike trail
Secluded campground tucked into the shady woods of Oscar Scherer State Park with access to a fabulous rail trail linking Sarasota to Venice.
Legendary Fisheating Creek: Kayak trail lives up to hype, but timing is everything
This gorgeous, wild, winding river is well-known in Florida, but can only be paddled when water levels are high enough — and thanks to recent rains, that is now and probably for the next month or two. This river belongs on the bucket list of those who love the Florida outdoors.
Spruce Creek paddle: A diamond in the rough
Development is creeping up on Spruce Creek and Strickland Bay, but there’s still enough scenic shoreline left to enjoy an awesome day of kayaking.
Naples Bird Rookery Swamp: It’s a beauty for hiking, biking, wildlife
Few South Florida hiking or biking trails rival this 12-mile-long trail near Naples for scenery and wildlife. It deserves to be known outside the Naples area.
Camping in the Everglades, an experience like no other
Winter is the best time for Everglades camping in both Everglades National Park and Big Cypress Preserve. Options run from recreational vehicles to tents in the back country and glamping.
Seven fantastic things to do with young kids in Fort Lauderdale and the region
With a toddler to entertain, we began the search for great safe beaches, the best playgrounds and a place to see flamingos up close near our Fort Lauderdale home. Our mission was accomplished, and we share our best finds.
Six things to do in Cedar Key, a charming, historic, off-the-beaten path spot
It’s a long way from just about anywhere — and that’s part of its beauty. But it’s also a great place to bicycle, kayak, hike, watch sunsets and spot birds. An 1859 hotel, now a charming B&B, plus fresh seafood restaurants add to its appeal.
Florida Keys Wild Bird Center is worth a quick stop
This bird rescue center offers an up-close-and-personal wildlife experience that makes a short, fun stop on a Keys trip, especially for families with kids.