Florida has almost 200 national and state parks, so reducing them to just 17 is both daunting and exciting.
Huge swamplands, beautiful barrier islands, and everything in between may be found in Florida. You may easily fill your day with activities like hiking, bicycling, kayaking, and leisurely swims in the warm Gulf of Mexico.
Florida's state and national parks are equally diversified due to the state's different geography. The history of the Sunshine State spans several centuries and includes both early Spanish settlement and Native American history. Forts and prehistoric mounds have preserved numerous protected parks, where you may see examples of both. Many of the state's greatest parks perfectly balance culture, history, and environment thanks to the presence of breathtaking coastal worlds and natural springs.
1. Dry Tortugas National Park
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| 5 Best National & State Parks in Florida |
Dry Tortugas National Park, which spans seven stunning isles, is a breathtaking sight. Fort Jefferson, erected in the 1800s, is located in the park, which also boasts a rich history.
Although it takes a while to get there from Miami, the trip and subsequent boat ride are definitely worth it. After zooming down the Keys, you'll reach a classic tropical setting. The islands are surrounded by golden sand, which leads to prismatic reefs and vibrant aquatic life.
Discover the fort, the largest masonry building in the country, after spotting turtles in profusion. You don't have to hurry back to the mainland because there are eight campgrounds in Dry Tortugas National Park, so stay for the spectacular sunset.
2. Everglades National Park
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| 5 Best National & State Parks in Florida |
Forget about Florida; the Everglades National area is a sizable, distinctive area that ought to be discussed nationally. It's a big area of terrain unlike any other in the nation, where you can kayak through enormous swamps that lead to sparkling lakes and discover lingering alligators lurking beneath the surface.
The Everglades are a wild, dynamic region that is uniquely Floridan. It draws a wide variety of animals, both prey and fodder, and is warm and jungle-like. On the numerous hiking and bike routes that crisscross the area, you may explore the various ecosystems. Or take part in excursions that connect you with the natural world and the hundreds of different bird species that visit the national park.
3. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
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| 5 Best National & State Parks in Florida |
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the country's first of its type, stretches over 70 nautical miles. The state park is located right off Highway 1, which goes all the way to Key West, about one hour south of Miami. The park is special because it provides a long, protected length of coral that makes for superb snorkeling and scuba diving.
Relax if you're worn out from trekking. Here, the water is where the action is. Get your snorkeling gear on, throw away the hiking boots, and go exploring. Along with the reefs, you may find lush mangroves alive with marine life and tropical hammocks. You may even board a glass-bottom boat to experience it all while remaining dry!
4. Bahia Honda State Park
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| 5 Best National & State Parks in Florida |
Bahia Honda State Park is frequently overlooked among the Florida Keys' natural splendor. However, we are here to advise against skipping it on your journey to Key West. In an area brimming with incredible expanses of sand, it has one of the greatest beaches. While travelers may discover plenty of cottages and campsites to wake up in paradise.
Calusa Bach is the beach described before. It has a crescent-shaped beach and glass-clear, dazzling turquoise water. Kayak or snorkel along the calm surface while taking in incredible clarity. Paddling enthusiasts can also go all the way to Little Bahia Honda. The stunning Bahia Honda Bridge is one of the other locations.
5. Big Cypress National Preserve
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| 5 Best National & State Parks in Florida |
Big Cypress National Reserve is as spectacular as it is underappreciated. It is larger than Rhode Island and the first national preserve in the United States. Visitors may explore unexplored terrain here, a large swampland yet undeveloped and untamed.
Seminoles and Miccosukees, two tribes that were instrumental in the creation of the preserve, have lived there for millennia. Today, you may take in the park's breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, which includes numerous stories from the bygone ages.
A kayak is the most effective mode of transportation. You may enjoy bird watching, take in the diversity of nature, and even keep an eye out for the cunning panther from the lake.