Remote, rural and picturesque, northwest Florida rewards your long drive with sparkling springs, the beautiful Suwanee River and scenic rural roads. This state park’s cabins make a great base to explore the region.
Tag: paddling
Juniper Springs in Ocala Forest: Shady kayak run on pristine spring-fed stream
One of Florida’s favorite kayak runs, Juniper Springs, is popular in summer because it’s largely shaded and the water is 72 degrees. It might be the most pristine spring-fed river in Florida. It’s best for experienced paddlers.
Canaveral National Seashore: Unspoiled beauty, solace for miles and miles
Canaveral National Seashore is longest undeveloped beach in Florida, 24 miles of pristine coastal sanctuary for people, birds and armadillos. Canaveral National Seashore is quiet and peaceful and you can always find your place in the sand.
For your Florida bucket list: A nighttime bioluminescence kayak trip is a summer thrill
On dark summer nights in the Mosquito Lagoon near Titusville and Cocoa, the water glows from bioluminescent plankton. Kayak tours help visitors see the spectacular light show.
Anclote Key: Camping on a remote tropical isle
If pitching a tent on a dreamy tropical island is your thing, then add Anclote Key to your bucket list.
St. Lucie Inlet Preserve: Kayak to wild island and beach
St. Lucie Inlet Preserve fits my definition of a hidden paradise: A scenic kayak trail on a wild island that ends at a spectacular hidden beach or secret lagoon. This little-known state park in Stuart is accessible only by boat.
Wakulla Springs State Park: Chill in a spring at an Old Florida lodge
Wakulla Springs State Park has a historic lodge, spectacular spring/swimming hole, scenic boat rides and many spots to hike, bike and kayak nearby. The Big Bend region of Florida is often overlooked by visitors, who are missing out on a rustic, rural area.
Talbot Islands a grand collection of preserves and plantations, beaches to back country
Stunning beaches, historic forts and plantations, backcountry kayaking, biking and hiking, all accessible from a shady, sandy campground.
Fort DeSoto Park: Tampa Bay treasure delivers top beaches, camping, historic site, more
There are few parks in Florida with as much to offer as Pinellas County’s Fort DeSoto Park: Camping, beaches, kayaking, biking, a dog beach and a history lesson too.
On the Ocklawaha River, you kayak a river environmentalists saved
Environmentalists have won a few battles in Florida and paddling the Ocklawaha is a good reminder. This is a wild, untouched river that was destined to be lost forever. Today, it is a beautiful spot to explore, less busy than many nearby rivers.