1. Alafia River State Park - 45 minutes by car from Tampa
© Vinoverde/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Lithia, FLHighlights:
Alafia River State Park is not your typical Florida park—it’s a reclaimed phosphate mine turned nature-lover’s playground. With hilly terrain, serene lakes, and adventurous trails, it’s a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts who want something a little more rugged.Recommended For:
Mountain bikers, paddlers, equestrians, hikers, campers, and families looking for an active nature escape.What I Love: ♥
Challenging terrain, lakeside paddling, birdwatching spots, and unique land contours you won’t find elsewhere in central Florida.- Bike some of Florida’s most challenging single-track mountain biking trails with a range of difficulty levels.
- Hike and ride equestrian trails that wind through rare hilly landscapes and scenic overlooks.
- Paddle along the Alafia River or fish in peaceful lakes throughout the park.
- Camp overnight or enjoy a day of birdwatching, geo-seeking, and quiet picnics under shady trees.
- Explore a reclaimed site that’s been thoughtfully transformed into a rich ecological destination.
Cost:
$5 per vehicle (up to 8 people), $4 for single-occupant vehicle, or $2 for pedestrians/bicyclistsDistance from Tampa:
About 45 minutes by car.How to Get to Alafia River State Park:
From Tampa, take FL-60 E to County Road 39 South. The park entrance is clearly marked at 14326 S County Rd 39 in Lithia.Address:
Alafia River State Park, 14326 South County Rd 39, Lithia, FL 33547Phone: 813-672-5320
2. Amelia Island State Park - 40 minutes by car from Downtown Jacksonville
© Chuck/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Jacksonville, FL (near Fernandina Beach)Highlights:
If you're looking for a peaceful beach day that feels tucked away yet easy to reach, Amelia Island State Park is one we’d definitely point you to. With wild shoreline, quiet dunes, and just enough amenities, it’s perfect for unwinding by the water.Recommended For:
Beachgoers, families, nature lovers, cyclists, and anyone wanting a scenic break from city life.What I Love: ♥
Wide open beaches, rustic charm, and a great mix of activities without the crowds or commercialization.- Swim, sunbathe, or build sandcastles along the pristine shoreline at the southern tip of Amelia Island.
- Fish from the beach or bring your kayak or paddleboard for a peaceful outing on the water.
- Cycle along scenic routes and watch for shorebirds and dolphins just offshore.
- Picnic in a natural setting with space to spread out, rest, and recharge.
- Use the shower station and clean restrooms—then bring along everything else for a relaxed beach day.
Cost:
$2 per person (honor box system)Distance from Downtown Jacksonville:
About 40 minutes by car.How to Get to Amelia Island State Park:
Take State Road A1A north toward Amelia Island. The entrance is located just south of the Nassau Sound Bridge, clearly marked with park signage.Address:
Amelia Island State Park, State Rd A1A North, Jacksonville, FL 32226Phone: 904-251-2320
3. Anastasia State Park - 10 minutes by car from Downtown St. Augustine
© /stock.adobe.com
Location:
St. Augustine, FLHighlights:
If you’re craving a beach day with a side of nature trails, salt marshes, and wildlife sightings, Anastasia State Park is one we’d recommend without hesitation. It’s one of Florida’s most diverse and scenic parks, with something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast.Recommended For:
Campers, beachgoers, paddlers, birdwatchers, hikers, and families looking for a nature-packed coastal escape.What I Love: ♥
Four miles of beach, bike and kayak rentals, estuary views, and the blend of peaceful wilderness with fun recreation.- Explore 1,600 acres of protected salt marsh, dunes, and beach ecosystems teeming with wildlife.
- Watch for shorebirds, osprey, and other species on trails or from the water—birdwatching is excellent year-round.
- Bike or hike the park’s scenic trails; rentals are available on-site if you don’t bring your own gear.
- Paddle through the estuary by canoe or kayak and experience the park’s beauty from the water.
- Camp overnight in your tent or RV at the well-equipped campground surrounded by natural shade.
- Swim, surf, or fish along the stunning four-mile beach, a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
Cost:
$8 per vehicle (2–8 people), $4 for single-occupant vehicle, or $2 for pedestrians/bicyclistsDistance from Downtown St. Augustine:
About 10 minutes by car.How to Get to Anastasia State Park:
From downtown St. Augustine, take A1A South over the Bridge of Lions. The park entrance is about 2 miles ahead on Anastasia Park Rd.Address:
Anastasia State Park, 300 Anastasia Park Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32080Phone: 904-461-2033
Romantic Florida Parks
4. Bahia Honda State Park - 45 minutes by car from Key West
© Matthew Carroll/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Big Pine Key, FL (Florida Keys)Highlights:
Bahia Honda State Park is one of those places that feels like paradise the moment you arrive. With turquoise water, palm-lined shores, and iconic Keys sunsets, it’s everything you'd hope for in a tropical island escape.Recommended For:
Snorkelers, campers, beach loungers, photographers, and anyone dreaming of an idyllic, island-style Florida adventure.What I Love: ♥
Picture-perfect beaches, cabins and camping by the sea, and some of the clearest snorkeling waters in the Keys.- Swim, relax, or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters that make Bahia Honda a top beach destination in Florida.
- Stay in a tent, RV, or one of six cozy cabins to fully soak in the tropical surroundings.
- Paddle by kayak or canoe, or book a boat trip right from the park—rentals are available on-site.
- Explore scenic walking, hiking, and biking trails that wind through the island’s natural beauty.
- Watch the sunset from the historic Old Bahia Honda Bridge overlook—an unforgettable Keys moment.
Cost:
$8 per vehicle (2–8 people), $4 for single-occupant vehicle, or $2 per pedestrian/bicyclistDistance from Key West:
About 45 minutes by car.How to Get to Bahia Honda State Park:
Drive along the scenic Overseas Highway (US-1) to Mile Marker 37. The park entrance is on the ocean side of the highway and is clearly signed.Address:
Bahia Honda State Park, 36850 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043Phone: 305-872-2353
5. Big Cypress National Preserve - 1.5 hours from Miami
© Celso Diniz/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Ochopee, FL (adjacent to the Everglades)Highlights:
Big Cypress National Preserve is one of those rare places where wild beauty, swampy mystery, and endless skies come together. It's a must-see for any south Florida explorer looking to experience one of the state’s most iconic natural landscapes.Recommended For:
Nature photographers, paddlers, campers, road-trippers, and anyone curious about Florida’s freshwater swamp ecosystems.What I Love: ♥
Scenic drives, starlit camping, ranger-led programs, and canoe trips through cypress-lined waterways teeming with wildlife.- Discover the vast Big Cypress Swamp, a freshwater haven for a wide range of plants, birds, and animals.
- Drive through a network of scenic roads offering immersive views of the swamp’s unique ecosystems.
- Join ranger-led activities like guided walks to learn about the preserve’s history and habitats.
- Paddle by kayak or canoe through serene, wildlife-rich waterways ideal for birding and quiet adventure.
- Camp at one of eight designated campgrounds and enjoy some of the darkest, clearest skies in Florida.
- Picnic at roadside parks along your journey—great for breaks with a view.
Cost:
Free admissionDistance from Miami:
About 1.5 hours by car via Tamiami Trail (US-41)How to Get to Big Cypress National Preserve:
Drive west from Miami along US-41 (Tamiami Trail) to the Oasis Visitor Center. Trail access, paddling launches, and campgrounds are all reachable from various points along this route.Address:
Big Cypress National Preserve, 33100 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL 34141Phone: 239-695-2000
6. Big Lagoon State Park - 30 minutes by car from Downtown Pensacola
© mumuaym/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Pensacola, FLHighlights:
Big Lagoon State Park is a coastal haven for paddlers, birders, and beach explorers, offering a rich mix of ecosystems between mainland Florida and Perdido Key. It’s a must for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the Gulf’s natural beauty.Recommended For:
Kayakers, campers, birdwatchers, anglers, hikers, and coastal nature lovers looking for adventure or tranquility.What I Love: ♥
Access to the Florida Circumnavigational Paddling Trail, birding along the Great Florida Birding Trail, and the blend of water, forest, and sky at every turn.- Discover 704 acres of protected coastal landscape, including salt marshes, pine flatwoods, and tidal lagoons.
- Fish, swim, or paddle along the Gulf's edge, with ideal launch points and calm waters for exploration.
- Hike nature trails and boardwalks that wind through diverse habitats teeming with wildlife.
- Birdwatch along the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail—this park is a hotspot for migratory species.
- Camp in a peaceful, well-equipped campground suitable for both RVs and tent campers looking to stay overnight by the water.
Cost:
$6 per vehicle (2–8 people), $4 for single-occupant vehicle, or $2 for pedestrians/bicyclistsDistance from Downtown Pensacola:
About 30 minutes by car.How to Get to Big Lagoon State Park:
Take FL-292 W (Gulf Beach Highway) toward Perdido Key. The entrance to the park is clearly marked at 12301 Gulf Beach Highway.Address:
Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola, FL 32507Phone: 850-492-1595
Florida Parks for Families
7. Big Shoals State Park - 25 minutes by car from Lake City
© stock.adobe.com
Location:
White Springs, FLHighlights:
If you’re craving rapids, rugged trails, and a bit of wild Florida, Big Shoals State Park is one of those rare inland gems we’d wholeheartedly recommend. It’s a playground for paddlers and hikers alike, and home to the state’s only Class III white-water rapids.Recommended For:
Experienced kayakers, adventurous hikers, equestrians, wildlife watchers, and anyone looking for a thrill off the beaten path.What I Love: ♥
White-water thrills on the Suwannee River, scenic overlooks, extensive trail networks, and serene forest surroundings perfect for all-season exploration.- Paddle the only Class III white-water rapids in Florida when the Suwannee River rises—ideal for skilled kayakers and canoeists.
- Explore over 28 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, with abundant chances for wildlife spotting.
- Fish from peaceful riverbanks while taking in the sights and sounds of North Florida wilderness.
- Picnic near the entrance and make use of convenient restroom facilities after your outdoor adventure.
- Take in dramatic views from the Big Shoals overlook, especially during high water when the rapids are roaring.
Cost:
$4 per vehicle (honor box system)Distance from Lake City:
About 25 minutes by car.How to Get to Big Shoals State Park:
From I-75, take Exit 439 to US-136 East. Turn right onto County Rd 135 and follow signs to the park entrance. Parking and trail access are available near the picnic area.Address:
Big Shoals State Park, 11330 S.E. County Rd 135, White Springs, FL 32096Phone: 386-397-4331
8. Biscayne National Park - 45 minutes by car from Downtown Miami
© liquid studios/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Homestead, FL (off the coast of Miami)Highlights:
Biscayne National Park is one of those incredible places where most of the beauty lies beneath the surface. With vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and island camping, it’s a dream for water lovers and marine life enthusiasts.Recommended For:
Snorkelers, divers, boaters, marine biologists-at-heart, and anyone seeking a truly unique coastal national park experience.What I Love: ♥
The mix of tropical islands, underwater shipwreck trails, crystal-clear snorkeling waters, and opportunities to camp on remote keys.- Explore coral reefs, mangrove coastlines, and seagrass meadows rich with sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish.
- Start your journey at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center to learn about the park’s ecology and sign up for guided boat tours.
- Dive or snorkel the Maritime Heritage Trail, an underwater route highlighting shipwrecks dating back over a century.
- Visit Elliott Key and the Jones Family Historic District to explore the park’s cultural and environmental history.
- Camp overnight on Elliott Key or Boca Chita Key for an unforgettable experience under the stars.
Cost:
Free admission (fees apply for boat tours and camping)Distance from Downtown Miami:
About 45 minutes by car to the Visitor Center in HomesteadHow to Get to Biscayne National Park:
Drive south on US-1 to Homestead, then follow signs to the Dante Fascell Visitor Center. Access to most of the park is by boat; tours depart from the Visitor Center marina.Address:
Biscayne National Park, Sir Lancelot Jones Way, Homestead, FL 33033Phone: 305-230-1144
9. Canaveral National Seashore
© jctabb/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Between New Smyrna Beach and Titusville, FLHighlights:
Canaveral National Seashore is one of Florida’s most unspoiled stretches of coast, offering miles of serene beach, abundant wildlife, and endless opportunities for exploration. It’s the perfect mix of family-friendly fun and wild coastal adventure.Recommended For:
Families, paddlers, wildlife watchers, stargazers, and anyone looking to escape the crowds and connect with Florida’s natural beauty.What I Love: ♥
Sandy beaches, guided turtle walks, pristine estuaries, and the chance to see dolphins, birds, and even rocket launches.- Swim, surf, fish, or boat in both the Atlantic and the Mosquito Lagoon—water lovers have endless options here.
- Let kids build sandcastles while adults enjoy watching endangered birds or spotting manatees in the lagoon.
- Join a guided canoe tour to explore the seashore’s quiet backwaters and mangrove-lined channels.
- Experience the wonder of the annual Turtle Watch program or attend a Night Sky Exploration event for stargazing.
- Unplug and enjoy a day in one of the most biodiverse and protected ecosystems along Florida’s east coast.
Cost:
$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes availableDistance from Orlando:
About 1 hour by carHow to Get to Canaveral National Seashore:
From I-95, take Exit 220 toward Titusville or Exit 249 toward New Smyrna Beach. Follow signs to the seashore’s northern or southern entrances, depending on your chosen beach access point.Address:
Canaveral National Seashore, 212 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL 32796Phone: 321-267-1110
10. Crystal River Archaeological State Park
© Bobby/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Crystal River, FLHighlights:
Crystal River Archaeological State Park offers a rare glimpse into Florida’s ancient past, preserving sacred mounds and ceremonial spaces that were used for over 1,600 years. It’s a unique stop that blends archaeology, nature, and scenic views.Recommended For:
History buffs, archaeology lovers, families, light hikers, and anyone curious about Florida’s Native American heritage.What I Love: ♥
The chance to stand atop a 30-foot ceremonial mound, interpretive exhibits, and a peaceful riverside setting perfect for exploring on land or water.- Climb to the top of the main burial mound and learn how ancient people shaped the landscape over centuries.
- Explore several preserved mounds and monuments, believed to mark one of the longest-used burial sites in Florida.
- Visit the on-site interpretive center and museum to deepen your understanding of the area’s cultural significance.
- Hike, bike, or fish along shaded trails and waterfront spots, or take a boat tour for a different perspective.
- Enjoy a relaxed afternoon with picnic facilities and geo-caching opportunities across the park’s 61 acres.
Cost:
$3 per vehicle (honor box system)Distance from Gainesville:
About 1.5 hours by carHow to Get to Crystal River Archaeological State Park:
From US-19 in Crystal River, turn west on State Park Street, then right onto Museum Point. The park is located at the end of the road, with clear signage and parking near the interpretive center.Address:
Crystal River Archaeological State Park, 3400 N Museum Point, Crystal River, FL 34428Phone: 352-795-3817
Plan Your Trip