An Overview of the Top 7 Florida State Parks

Florida has some of the most beautiful state parks in the country, each with its unique appeal and offerings. If you want to visit our state parks but don’t know where to start, look no further than this list of the top 7 Florida state parks to visit. These parks offer something special to everyone, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just enjoy getting away from it all on your next vacation. Whether you have time for one quick stop or plan to spend a week exploring the park’s attractions, these are the 7 Florida state parks you need to check out soon!

#1 – Blackwater River

Located about 65 miles north of Tallahassee, Blackwater River is home to more than 36,000 acres of natural lands. The river cuts through a variety of ecosystems in its trek southward, meaning it’s home to a diverse array of wildlife. To find out more about how you can explore Florida’s Blackwater River State Park, check out our post. Blackwater Canoe Rental has canoe and kayak rentals so you can experience the shores of 30 beautiful sandy beaches as you enjoy the gentle river. 

#2 – Caladesi Island

Located in Dunedin, Florida, Caladesi Island is one of a few island state parks. The best part about Caladesi is that it offers a variety of activities, including kayaking and birding. There are also two beaches where you can enjoy swimming or sunbathing on warm days. If you want to get away from it all for a while, head over to Caladesi Island and enjoy some peace and quiet.

This state park is a great addition if you’re in the Tampa area. Spend a day here, and head into Dunedin for a small town devoted to its dogs. 

#3 – Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park

Come for a visit to Fakahatchee Strand Preserve in Collier County, one of Florida’s most well-known and largest state parks. Fakahatchee is home to more than 10,000 acres of dense mangrove forest along the Gulf of Mexico and boasts Florida’s largest remaining stand of ancient bald cypress trees. The preserve also features a wealth of wildlife including alligators, snowy egrets, and wild boars.

Located near the Naples area, this is a great spot to get some real Florida wildlife added to your beach vacations. 

#4 – Myakka River State Park

Myakka River: This park sits on Florida’s southwest coast near Sarasota and protects nearly 16,000 acres of land. It boasts more than 12 miles of canoe trails that meander through coastal hammocks and tropical hardwood forests. If you love to canoe or kayak, be sure to stop by Myakka for some quality time on Florida’s first state-designated wild and scenic river!

 One of Myakka’s most well-known natural attractions is its abundance of tropical birds. The park is an excellent place for bird watching, with more than 225 different species calling it home. If you visit in late summer or early fall, make sure to set aside time to see if you can spot an Osprey – these magnificent birds fish from large nests they build near water sources like lakes and rivers. Get a birds’ eye view on their canopy walkway as well. 

#5 – San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve

The San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve is a great spot for divers and snorkelers. Although it has only been open since 2015, divers have explored these waters for decades. The preserve’s clear water makes it a prime location for scuba diving or snorkeling in an extensive system of submerged wrecks. The most notable of these ships includes a 19th-century Spanish vessel, a U.S. Navy tugboat, and a Civil War blockade runner. The area also contains many remnants from Native American settlements that date back thousands of years.

#6 Florida Caverns State Park

Florida Caverns State Park is Florida’s newest state park, as it was only established in 2011. Located near Marianna, FL in Jackson County, Florida Caverns features an underground limestone cavern that visitors can explore. The park also boasts a scenic hiking trail and several picnic tables for visitors to enjoy. There are even special camping cabins for those who want a more immersive experience at their state park.  

#7 – Big Shoals State Park

 One of our favorite things about Big Shoals State Park is that it also has some excellent whitewater rapids that make it a popular place for kayaking and canoeing – both novices and experts alike will find something to enjoy!

 But make no mistake, Big Shoals is still an ideal place for people who just want to get away from it all and enjoy a peaceful day at a Florida state park. It has 20 miles of hiking trails, many with excellent views of the river that flow through some majestic gorge areas. The trails are also made in such a way that they will accommodate hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders.

Interested in visiting one of these Florida State Parks? Let us know, we would be happy to assist you with booking a trip.

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