Diverse eco-systems are the hallmark of North Florida state parks with camping, from beaches to cool springs and deep woods hideaways. Part 4 in our series.
Camping
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)
Who doesn’t love the Florida State Fair? From livestock tents to magical midway — and food! Lots of food! And some of it is not good for you, which is, of course, the appeal of a state fair.
The Peace River in Arcadia has been a beloved paddling destination for decades. It’s an easy, tranquil paddle and it’s also outright gorgeous. It’s a great river for groups, families and beginners.
Camp Venice was slammed by Hurricane Ian. A year later, the Myakka River has receded, and this private campground, a personal favorite, looks none the worse for wear.
County park campgrounds are increasingly on our radar as campers get shut out of crowded state parks or face skyrocketing rates at private campgrounds.
Encompassing more than 600 square miles in North Central Florida, Ocala National Forest is your playground for adventure.
Windswept beaches, pristine back country waterways, a mile-long fishing bridge, scenic campgrounds, and a lot of hands-on history.
This northeast Florida state park is on the map but far enough away to be ignored. It’s also far enough away to provide a tranquil camping experience. It’s quiet here.
Florida Panhandle’s greatest treasure might be Gulf Islands National Seashore, with an unspoiled barrier island, sand as white as snow and a rare Civil War fort whose spooky spaces you can wander.
Florida’s northernmost state park campground will be the first to shed humidity and cool off in Fall. Book it now before anybody else reads this story.
Remote, rural and picturesque, northwest Florida rewards your long drive with sparkling springs, the beautiful Suwanee River and scenic rural roads. Two state parks with cabins and campgrounds make great bases to explore the region.
Myakka is one of the oldest and biggest state parks, a great place for seeing wildlife, from huge gators to flocks of birds in winter. Go here for its log cabins, appealing camp sites, excellent kayaking, extensive hiking and good bike trails. It’s also a good spot for nature neophytes, who enjoy the airboat ride and canopy walk.
The mistake most people make when planning a Florida camping experience in popular public campgrounds is starting too late.
Grayton Beach is consistently ranked among the Top 10 beaches in America, making it a prime candidate for your bucket list. This park and the whole region is worth make great fall and spring trips, but you have to plan early.
The clear waters flowing out of Alexander Springs are the start of a great paddling trail inside Ocala National Forest. It’s an easy stream to paddle with lots of wildlife, especially birds and fish.
Kelly Park is best known as a summer destination for swimming its cool springs and for paddling scenic Rock Springs Run. We loved camping there.
Cool springs, scenic trails and things to do while exploring Ocala National Forest from 15 campgrounds.
The best places for stargazing in Florida are lonely places where dark skies light up the night, especially if you’re a camper. We found a dozen heavenly spots to indulge in the galaxies.
This state park is so worth a drive to explore. It would take days to experience it all – a beautiful beach, a well-preserved Civil War fort, hiking, biking, wildlife, great camping.