Florida is a great place for families and adventure lovers. It is the only tropical state in the U.S and it has fantastic weather and fun things to do. The state parks in Florida are often considered among the best in the United States. There are more than 175 best parks in Florida so it can be tough to decide which ones to visit.
These beautiful state and national parks are filled with lush green plants, rivers, lakes, mangroves and more. You can go kayaking and find incredible camping spots. There are lots of exciting activities to do with friends and families.
5 Best Parks in Florida
Check out our list of 5 Best Parks in Florida that are truly worth visiting for their beautiful nature and wildlife.
- Bahia Honda State Park
- Silver Springs State Park
- Everglades National Park
- Three Rivers State Park
- Canaveral National Seashore
1. Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda State Park in the Florida Keys stands out for a few reasons. The Sandspur Campground is known for its excellent tent camping. It has reopened after damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017. The beautiful Sandspur Beach is also back in action. Bahia Honda state park also offers other campgrounds and cabins but they are in high demand so getting reservations can be a bit challenging.
Even for day visitors Bahia Honda is a perfect place. Calusa Beach with its stunning crescent shape, white sands and clear turquoise waters is perfect for snorkeling to observe marine life. Kayaking in the crystal clear waters is amazing and you can even kayak to Little Bahia Honda which is a small island in the Atlantic.
The old saddleback Bahia Honda Bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering. It was built in the early 20th century. The bridge serves as a captivating centerpiece of the park. It is a part of Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad.
2. Silver Springs State Park
Florida has many state parks with springs but Silver Springs State Park stands out as the best. It all begins with the incredible spring which has been a top tourist attraction in Florida for 140 years. You can still take fantastic glass bottom boat tours where quiet electric boats glide over the crystal clear waters filled with fish.
For kayakers it is a paradise with lots of wildlife to see including monkeys, manatees, alligators, otters and various birds. The scenery along the river is also stunning.
The park offers some of the finest cabins in the state park system and a lovely shaded campground. You can explore good hiking trails as well.
3. Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park covers 1.5 million acres in three Florida counties at the southern tip of the state. It is home to many rare and endangered species like the Florida panther and the West Indian manatee. Bird lovers come here to spot various birds like herons, ospreys, spoonbills, pelicans, storks and skimmers.
You can explore the Everglades by catamaran, airboat, kayak or canoe. If you prefer staying on land you can take a narrated tram tour or rent a cruiser bike.
There is also the option to walk along the short Anhinga Trail to see the birds that dive into the water to catch fish. And if you are up for it there are plenty of alligators to see here too.
4. Three Rivers State Park
Three Rivers State Park is a hidden treasure located at the Florida, Georgia and Alabama borders. It is the place where the Chattahoochee and Flint rivers come together to create a lake that flows over a dam forming the Apalachicola River.
When you visit it feels like you’re not even in Florida anymore. In the fall the trees around Lake Seminole display beautiful colors. Interestingly the time zone changes from one side of the park to the other depending on your cell phone signal.
Fishing here is fantastic as you might expect. The park offers camping, seven miles of bike trails and five miles of nature trails through its rolling hills and pine forests. You can also bring canoes, kayaks and small boats to enjoy on the lake and rivers.
Canaveral National Seashore in Florida is a unique place. It is on the east coast of central Florida. The park has one of the longest undeveloped coastlines in the state.
Here you will find pristine shores and a variety of visitors. Some come for the sea turtles, some for the sun and some even for clothing optional Apollo Beach.
You can watch rocket launches from Kennedy Space Center here too or go kayaking in Mosquito Lagoon which is a big part of the park.
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Final Thoughts
Florida is a famous tourist destination for its beautiful places and tropical climate. There are several best parks in Florida where you can relax and enjoy some time with family. In these Florida national parks you can observe nature and see wildlife including birds, manatees, panthers and green sea turtles. So what are you waiting for? Make some time from your busy schedule and visit these amazing parks in Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular activities to do in the best parks in Florida?
Popular activities in Florida’s parks include hiking, bird watching, camping, kayaking, swimming and wildlife viewing.
Can you go swimming in the best parks in Florida?
Many Florida state parks offer swimming opportunities such as beaches, springs and rivers. However swimming availability varies by park.
Are there guided tours available in the best parks in Florida?
Yes many national parks in Florida offer guided tours including boat tours, tram tours and ranger led programs.
Can I go camping in the best parks in Florida?
Camping is available in many Florida state parks with options ranging from tent camping to RV sites and cabins.
