Exploring the Best of Florida’s State Parks

Florida has 175 state parks that make up all sorts of most breathtaking and diverse natural landscapes. Across the Sunshine State, you can find pristine beaches, crystal-clear springs, and tropical forests all protected by the state and ripe for exploration. Today, I want to share the top state parks I have visited and why you should check them out as well!

I have divided this post up into North, Central, and South state parks that each highlight unique aspects of Florida’s ecosystem. I have also included wildlife to look out for here and fun things to do. Get ready to embark on your own nature adventure with this guide to Florida’s best state parks!

North Florida

Across North Florida, you can find state parks of all ecosystems and sizes. The diversity you can find up here is truly fascinating! To experience all this part of the Sunshine State has to offer, add these state parks to your bucket list.

1. Three Rivers State Park

• Location: Sneads
• Things to Do: Camping, fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking, cycling
• Wildlife to See: Deer, foxes, eagles, waterfowl

For a tranquil panhandle experience, this park gives visitors a look at the confluence of the Chattahoochee and Flint rivers. Whether you want to explore the water or the land, there are trails and paddling areas for both.

2. Florida Caverns State Park

• Location: Marianna
• Things to Do: Cave tours, camping, fishing, picnicking, hiking, swimming
• Wildlife to See: Bats, various birds, and reptiles

Because it is the only state park in Florida to offer cave tours that showcase magnificent limestone formations and diverse geological features to the public, this is one for the bucket list! Florida Caverns is a bit out of the way for most Floridians, but worth it for exploring a cave and the nearby ecosystem.

3. Torreya State Park

• Location: Bristol
• Things to Do: Hiking, camping, birdwatching, historic site tours, fishing
• Wildlife to See: Gopher tortoises, bobcats, a variety of birds

Featuring steep bluffs overlooking the Apalachicola River, this park is home to the rare Torreya tree and offers hiking and camping​. The challenging hiking trails and ample bird watching make it a popular destination for outdoorsy people, and the historic home also attracts some Civil War era buffs.

4. Grayton Beach State Park

• Location: Santa Rosa Beach
• Things to Do: Beach activities, camping, hiking, paddling, fishing
• Wildlife to See: Sea turtles, shorebirds, deer

With its sugar-white sand and emerald waters, Grayton Beach is often ranked among the top beaches in the country. In addition to sunbathing and swimming, the park also includes a coastal dune lake, that you can go kayaking or fishing in.

5. Anastasia State Park

• Location: St. Augustine,
• Things to Do: Beach activities, biking, camping, kayaking, hiking, birdwatching
• Wildlife to See: Shorebirds, turtles, dolphins

Across the bridge from historic St. Augustine, Anastasia State Park boasts miles of pristine beach, a tidal salt marsh, and a variety of wildlife. Whether you want a classic day at the beach or prefer to try embark on paddleboard or cycle tour, you can do that here!

6. Little Talbot Island State Park

• Location: Jacksonville
• Things to Do: Beachcombing, hiking, fishing, camping, wildlife viewing, cycling, paddleboarding
• Wildlife to See: Sea turtles, migratory birds, deer

One of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands in Northeast Florida, Little Talbot Island park offers five miles of pristine beaches that provide a serene beach day. For those that are looking for something other than a beach day, you can also hike through the maritime forest, go paddleboarding, or even try surfing!

7. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

• Location: Micanopy
• Things to Do: Hiking, birdwatching, camping, fishing, horseback riding
• Wildlife to See: Bison, wild horses, alligators, otters, and over 270 species of birds

A “biological melting pot,” Paynes Prairie Preserve is a must-visit for those who want to see wildlife. Not only is this a known area for sighting tons of alligators, but you can also look out for wild bison and horses, as well as over 300 species of birds. First timers should prioritize the La Chua trail for the maximum possibility of nature sightings.

8. Ravine Gardens State Park

• Location: Palatka
• Things to Do: Hiking, picnicking, garden tours, bicycling, geo-seeking,
• Wildlife to See: Birds, fish, turtles

For an unbelievable garden experience, Ravine Gardens state park showcases formal gardens set within a deep ravine. With two swaying suspension bridges and over five miles of trails, it’s no wonder Florida adventurers love this park.

9. Silver Springs State Park

• Location: Ocala
• Things to Do: Glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking, hiking, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, tram tour
• Wildlife to See: Monkeys, manatees, alligators, turtles

Silver Springs provides a unique view of underwater life in one of the largest springs in the world with its famous glass-bottom boats! Though this state park can be more touristy than others, I highly recommend checking it out for sights you won’t find elsewhere!

10. Rainbow Springs State Park

• Location: Dunnellon
• Things to Do: Swimming, tubing, snorkeling, hiking, camping
• Wildlife to See: Otters, fish, various bird species

Known for its stunningly clear, turquoise waters, Rainbow Springs is a Florida oasis. This park is perfect for swimming, kayaking and tubing in the summer. However, it also is a lovely place for a hike or a picnic by the waterfalls year-round.

Central Florida

The middle of the state boasts more than just theme parks. There are also plenty of rich, undeveloped areas to see the “real Florida”. From beaches to dark sky prairies, this next section shares my favorite places to enjoy the nature of Central Florida.

11. Bulow Creek State Park

• Location: Ormond Beach
• Things to Do: Hiking, picnicking, cycling, kayaking, birdwatching
• Wildlife to See: Birds (potentially owls) and deer

Bulow Creek State Park protects one of the largest remaining stands of southern live oak forest in Florida. Seeing the Fairchild Oak is a must, as well as checking out the different nature trails and historical ruins around it

12. De Leon Springs State Park

• Location: De Leon Springs
• Things to Do: Swimming, kayaking, picnicking, boat tour, pancake breakfast at Old Spanish Sugar Mill
• Wildlife to See: Manatees, alligators, various bird species

Famous for its Fountain of Youth, visitors can swim in the refreshing De Leon Spring waters or explore the surrounding park, rich in history and natural beauty. However, the most unique thing you can do here is cook-your-own pancake breakfast in the Old Sugar Mill! This park is located just outside of DeLand and is a blast for all ages!

13. Blue Spring State Park

• Location: Orange City
• Things to Do: Manatee viewing, swimming, kayaking, camping, boat tours, scuba diving, canoeing
• Wildlife to See: Manatees, fish

A must-visit for manatee lovers, Blue Spring State Park offers the chance to see manatees up close in their natural habitat, especially during the cooler months. Additionally, visitors can go kayaking, or take a dip in the springs during the summer!

14. Wekiwa Springs State Park

• Location: Apopka
• Things to Do: Swimming, kayaking, hiking, camping, snorkeling, mountain biking, geo-seeking
• Wildlife to See: Deer, birds, turtles

Visitors from far and wide come to see the crystal-clear springs and miles of scenic trails at Wekiwa Springs State Park. Though most come for a refreshing swim, there is also plenty of excitement to be had mountain biking or kayaking through the park.

15. Hillsborough River State Park

• Location: Thonotosassa
• Things to Do: Canoeing, hiking, camping, fishing, geo-seeking, glamping,
• Wildlife to See: Fish and birds

Offering some of the best canoeing and kayaking in Florida, Hillsborough River is full of untouched Florida wilderness. From Class II rapids to scenic trails, there is something for every adventurer here.

16. Honeymoon Island State Park

• Location: Dunedin
• Things to Do: Beach activities, birdwatching, hiking, shelling, cycling, kayaking
• Wildlife to See: Ospreys, bald eagles, gopher tortoises, fish

With its natural beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant birding opportunities, Honeymoon Island is ideal for those seeking a tranquil retreat from busy Tampa Bay. For an especially unique experience, take the ferry to Caladesi Island!

17. Egmont Key State Park

• Location: St. Petersburg
• Things to Do: Snorkeling, shelling, boating, hiking, swimming
• Wildlife to See: Gopher tortoises, dolphins, fish, seabirds

Egmont Key State Park, located at the mouth of Tampa Bay, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, with its secluded beaches and 19th-century lighthouse. The park is accessible only by boat and is a haven for anyone wanting a secluded beach day.

18. Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park

• Location: Okeechobee
• Things to Do: Birdwatching, stargazing, hiking, camping, cycling, horseback riding
• Wildlife to See: Deer, bobcats, birds, butterflies, tortoises

This park preserves one of Florida’s last expanses of dry prairie, home to an array of wildlife that creates an escape from the city like no other. Thanks to its remote location, this park is certified as a Dark Sky and you can often see the Milky Way here when camping on new moon nights!

19. Sebastian Inlet State Park

• Location: Melbourne Beach
• Things to Do: Surfing, fishing, beachcombing, paddling, camping, scuba diving
• Wildlife to See: Manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, shorebirds

Surf’s up at Sebastian Inlet, where many take on the monster hole for a thrilling ride. However, this isn’t just a haven for surfers, anglers and beach bums love it too! Best of all, if you go at sunrise or sunset, you are likely to see dolphins!

20. Jonathan Dickinson State Park

• Location: Hobe Sound
• Things to Do: Bicycling, boat tours, camping, glamping, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, swimming
• Wildlife to See: Deer, alligators, gopher tortoises, birds

Known for its sixteen diverse ecosystems, this park offers activities such as boating, hiking, and visiting the historic Trapper Nelson Interpretive Site. It’s the perfect spot for doing something active and then relaxing on the beach!

South Florida

What once was entirely The Everglades, many think South Florida state parks are entirely swampy and buggy. And while that is occasionally true, the many state parks here should not be overlooked. Visitors can find everything from gorgeous beaches to awe-inspiring history at these next ten parks.

21. Myakka River State Park

• Location: Sarasota
• Things to Do: Airboat tours, hiking, camping, birdwatching, cycling, fishing
• Wildlife to See: Alligators, wading birds, deer

One of Florida’s oldest and largest state parks, Myakka River State Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, hiking, and bird watching, in a setting of wild and scenic landscapes.

22. Koreshan State Park

• Location: Estero
• Things to Do: Historic site tours, hiking, kayaking, camping, fishing,
• Wildlife to See: Birds, manatees, turtles

Located near Fort Myers, this park preserves the remnants of a religious utopian community from the late 19th century. Though you can (and should) tour the settlement, this rural area also has nature trails and waterways to explore.

23. Lovers Key State Park

• Location: Fort Myers Beach
• Things to Do: Beach activities, kayaking, fishing, hiking, cycling, paddling
• Wildlife to See: Manatees, dolphins, shorebirds

Lovers Key is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches, kayaking, and fishing, with postcard-esque views. We especially love the off-leash dog beach with shallow water for pups to frolic in.

24. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

• Location: Fort Lauderdale
• Things to Do: Hiking, biking, picnicking, paddleboarding, swimming, roller blading
• Wildlife to See: Turtles, gopher tortoises, a variety of birds

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale is a tranquil oasis amidst the city, featuring beaches, hiking trails, and scenic picnic areas. Easily accessible from Las Olas, this park is a can’t miss, even if you just spend half an hour walking through the forest of live oak trees.

25. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

• Location: Key Biscayne
• Things to Do: Beach activities, lighthouse tours, biking, fishing, paddling
• Wildlife to See: Sea turtles, shorebirds

Just outside Miami, Bill Baggs offers beautiful beaches and the ability to climb up Cape Florida lighthouse. Whether you spend the day swimming and sunbathing here or try something more active like cycling, the ocean views will stun you!

26. Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park

• Location: Copeland
• Things to Do: Hiking, wildlife viewing, swamp walks, bicycling, fishing, paddleboarding
• Wildlife to See: Alligators, wading birds, roseate spoonbills, ospreys, manatees

Known as the “Amazon of North America,”, the park offers swamp walks, hiking, and wildlife viewing, where visitors might spot tropical birds and rare orchids. It’s also the largest state park in Florida, so you can spend plenty of time exploring all the different sections!

27. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

• Location: Key Largo
• Things to Do: Snorkeling, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking, camping, fishing
• Wildlife to See: Coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, birds

The first undersea park in the United States, John Pennekamp is an amazing spot snorkeling and diving opportunities. Tropical fish are abundant in the coral reefs here and if you take a boat tour, you might be able to see the underwater Christ of the Abyss statue!

28. Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

• Location: Islamorada
• Things to Do: Fossil exploration, hiking, picnicking
• Wildlife to See: Birds, iguanas

Over in Islamorada, Windley Key Fossil Reef showcases a preserved coral reef and offers interpretive trails through a historic quarry. With hiking and ranger-guided tours, this laid-back spot is a hidden gem of the Florida Keys!

29. Bahia Honda State Park

• Location: Big Pine Key
• Things to Do: Beach activities, snorkeling, kayaking, camping
• Wildlife to See: Sea turtles, dolphins, tropical fish

Famous for its iconic Florida Keys scenery, Bahia Honda features turquoise blue waters, excellent snorkeling, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the state! If you visit the Keys and want a beach day, this is the top place to do it!

30. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

• Location: Key West
• Things to Do: Beach activities, historic site tours, snorkeling, fishing, geo-seeking
• Wildlife to See: Tropical fish, shorebirds, turtles

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West combines historical intrigue with natural beauty, featuring a Civil War-era fort and the most popular Key West beach.

Know Before You Go

Each of these state parks encapsulates a piece of what makes Florida truly special. From the serene waters of its springs to the untouched beauty of its beaches and prairies, Florida’s state parks offer endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and connecting with nature. We love coming here for a guided tour of the fort, followed by snorkeling!

Whether you’re a Florida resident or planning a visit, these parks are essential destinations for anyone looking to experience the state’s natural wonders. Read through these tips to ensure a respectful and safe visit to these state parks.

• Bring insect repellent to avoid bites. Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent in wooded or coastal areas.
• Some parks have limited cell service, so it’s wise to bring a physical map or download one beforehand.
• Protect yourself from Florida’s strong sun by applying sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days.
• Popular parks can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early ensures you get parking and enjoy a less crowded experience.
• Pack out everything you bring in, including trash, to help preserve the natural beauty of the park.

What’s your favorite Florida state park? For more ways to experience nature, be sure to check out my guide to the best destinations for nature lovers!