I find it special that beyond the theme parks and palm trees, Florida’s state parks are full of wonder. I love how this state mixes wild beauty, splashy fun, and hands-on adventures. I look forward to days that start with manatees and end with marshmallow roasts under the stars.
To me, Florida parks mean spotting gators on a boardwalk at Everglades National Park, swimming with fish in the crystal-clear springs at Blue Spring State Park, and collecting seashells along the white sands of Henderson Beach State Park. We always pack a picnic for Myakka River State Park, where canopy walks and airboat rides bring out the explorer in every kid. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park lets little ones peek into the ocean without diving deep—glass-bottom boat tours are a must! And when the sun sets at Bahia Honda, it’s hard not to pause and just breathe it all in. Florida’s weather lets us play outside nearly year-round, with shady trails and splash zones always close by.
Picture this: The kids are spotting manatees, splashing in natural springs, and racing through pine forests—all before lunch in a Florida state park.
"Springs, swamps, and sunshine galore? This is Florida with kids!"
Unique Florida State Parks:
1. Anastasia State Park - Just a 5-mile drive from St. Augustine
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
St. Augustine, FLHighlights:
If you’re craving a nature-filled beach escape just outside historic St. Augustine, Anastasia State Park is an absolute gem. It’s the kind of place where you can bike through trails, watch dolphins, and camp under the stars.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, families, bird watchers, kayakers, and anyone looking for a peaceful oceanside adventure with easy access to St. Augustine.What I Love: ♥
Four miles of unspoiled beaches, abundant wildlife, kayaking through tidal marshes, and a cozy campground with modern amenities.- Stay at the park’s 139-site campground, each with water, electricity, a fire ring, and a grill—perfect for tents or campers.
- Explore bike trails or rent kayaks, paddleboards, sailboats, or canoes to discover the surrounding tidal marsh.
- Spot dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles offshore, or bring binoculars for prime bird watching—bald eagles, terns, gulls, and herons abound.
- Refuel at the on-site grill with fresh food and grab a souvenir at the charming park gift shop.
Distance from Downtown St. Augustine:
Just a 5-mile drive across the scenic Matanzas Bay.How to Get to Anastasia State Park:
From St. Augustine, head east across the Bridge of Lions onto Anastasia Boulevard. Continue straight until you reach Anastasia Park Road and follow it into the park entrance.2. Big Talbot Island State Park - a 40-minute drive from Jacksonville
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Location:
Jacksonville, FLHighlights:
If you're in the mood for something wild, photogenic, and full of natural wonders, Big Talbot Island State Park should be on your list. It’s a serene coastal escape where ancient trees meet dramatic shorelines and wildlife watching never disappoints.Recommended For:
Nature photographers, birders, hikers, cyclists, and anyone seeking an uncrowded, ruggedly beautiful Florida state park.What I Love: ♥
The hauntingly beautiful Boneyard Beach, dolphin sightings, roseate spoonbills, kayak rentals, and blufftop picnic spots with sweeping views.- Hike or bike the park’s 2.9-mile paved road, with additional off-road trails open to cyclists.
- Kayak along the shoreline—rentals are available by the hour or day for peaceful paddling adventures.
- Watch wildlife from every angle—spot dolphins offshore, deer and bobcats in the woods, and spoonbills or pelicans in the pond.
- Relax with a picnic on the bluff, overlooking the ocean and the ghostly driftwood of Boneyard Beach.
Distance from Downtown Jacksonville:
Around a 40-minute drive northeast via State Road A1A.How to Get to Big Talbot Island State Park:
Take State Road A1A North out of Jacksonville. Follow signs for Big Talbot Island State Park; parking areas and trailheads are marked along the route.3. Collier-Seminole State Park - a 30-minute drive from Downtown Naples
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Location:
Naples, FLHighlights:
If you’re up for wild Florida at its best—think panthers, mangroves, and river paddling—Collier-Seminole State Park delivers. It’s the kind of spot where you can hike, paddle, and birdwatch all in one lush, unforgettable day.Recommended For:
Wildlife lovers, paddlers, families, campers, and anyone curious about Florida’s rich ecosystems and backcountry adventures.What I Love: ♥
Scenic mangrove trails, Blackwater River kayaking, rare wildlife sightings, and a family-friendly campground with playgrounds and picnic spots.- Hike trails through mangrove forests and hardwood hammocks, with access to the Ten Thousand Island National Wildlife Refuge.
- Paddle the Blackwater River—rent canoes or kayaks, or join ranger-led tours by kayak or pole boat.
- Watch for Florida panthers, bobcats, tortoises, alligators, and 150+ bird species in this biodiverse haven.
- Camp at the 120-site campground with full hookups, and enjoy kid-friendly amenities like playgrounds and shaded picnic pavilions.
Distance from Downtown Naples:
About a 30-minute drive east along Tamiami Trail (US-41).How to Get to Collier-Seminole State Park:
Head east on US-41/Tamiami Trail from Naples. Continue for approximately 17 miles until you see the park entrance on your right at 20200 Tamiami Trail East.4. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park - 1 hour and 30 minutes from Miami
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Location:
Key Largo, FLHighlights:
If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming alongside coral reefs and shipwrecks, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a must. It’s Florida’s underwater wonderland—ideal for snorkelers, divers, and glass-bottom boat cruisers alike.Recommended For:
Snorkelers, scuba divers, families, marine life enthusiasts, and campers looking for a tropical coastal escape.What I Love: ♥
Vibrant coral reefs, glass-bottom boat tours, a visitor center with an aquarium, and beachside picnic spots.- Snorkel at Cannon Beach to explore an early Spanish shipwreck just 100 feet offshore.
- Join one of the multiple daily snorkel boat tours to explore different areas of the coral reef.
- Relax on the two man-made beaches, complete with picnic tables and restrooms for a full day of coastal fun.
- Stay overnight at one of 47 campsites offering sewer, water, and electric hookups—ideal for RVs and tents.
- Visit the on-site aquarium and enjoy nature documentaries at the Visitor Center for a deeper look at marine life.
Distance from Miami:
Roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes south along US-1.How to Get to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park:
Take US-1 South (Overseas Highway) from Miami. The park entrance is at Mile Marker 102.5 in Key Largo, clearly marked with signs.Romantic Florida State Parks:
5. Myakka River State Park - a 30-minute drive from Sarasota
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Location:
Sarasota, FLHighlights:
If you're up for wildlife, canopy walks, and old Florida charm, Myakka River State Park is pure magic. It’s the kind of place where you can spot alligators, stroll above the treetops, and cruise wetlands on an airboat.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, photographers, birders, families, campers, and anyone eager to experience diverse Florida ecosystems up close.What I Love: ♥
Elevated canopy walks, airboat tours, wildlife-packed boardwalks, and historic cabins with a side of craft beer at the café.- Walk the first public canopy walkway in the U.S.—25 feet above ground with stunning views of forest and wetlands.
- Watch wildlife from boardwalks over Upper Myakka Lake, including alligators, sandhill cranes, and wading birds.
- Ride the world’s largest airboats on a guided lake tour or hop on a park tram for a scenic land adventure.
- Camp at one of 90 sites or stay in rustic 1930s-1940s cabins nestled in the trees.
- Refuel at the on-site café for lunch, sweet treats, and craft beer, and check out the gift shop for souvenirs.
Distance from Downtown Sarasota:
About a 30-minute drive east via State Road 72.How to Get to Myakka River State Park:
Take State Road 72 (Clark Road) east from Sarasota. The entrance is located at 13208 State Road 72—just follow the signs to the main gate.6. Falling Waters State Park - 1 hour and 45 minutes from Tallahassee
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Location:
Chipley, FLHighlights:
If you're looking for Florida's hidden natural gems, Falling Waters State Park is a serene surprise. It’s where waterfalls plunge into deep sinkholes and butterflies flutter through peaceful pine forests.Recommended For:
Hikers, campers, families, nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a unique northern Florida experience.What I Love: ♥
Florida’s tallest waterfall, forested campsites, a refreshing lake beach, and fascinating history—from oil wells to old mill ruins.- See the state’s tallest waterfall drop into a dramatic 100-foot-deep sinkhole via the boardwalk trail system.
- Stroll through a vibrant butterfly garden, and watch for deer, foxes, and fox squirrels in the pine-dogwood forest.
- Swim in the freshwater lake with a white sand beach—perfect for cooling off on hot Florida days.
- Explore historical remnants, including Florida’s first oil well and ruins of a 19th-century grist mill.
- Camp in one of 24 shaded forest sites with water, electric hookups, and fire rings for cozy evenings.
Distance from Tallahassee:
Around 1 hour and 45 minutes west via I-10.How to Get to Falling Waters State Park:
Take I-10 West from Tallahassee to Exit 120 in Chipley. Head south on State Route 77, then follow signs to State Park Road and the park entrance.7. Big Shoals State Park - a 1 hour and 15-minute from Gainesville
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Location:
White Springs, FLHighlights:
If you’re craving adrenaline and scenic trails, Big Shoals State Park is calling. It’s the only place in Florida with Class III whitewater rapids—plus miles of peaceful, wooded terrain if land is more your speed.Recommended For:
Whitewater kayakers, hikers, mountain bikers, bird watchers, horseback riders, and nature-loving families.What I Love: ♥
The rushing Suwannee River rapids, 33 miles of scenic multi-use trails, abundant wildlife, and tranquil picnic spots under the trees.- Paddle through Florida’s only Class III whitewater rapids on the Suwannee River—best for experienced kayakers and canoeists.
- Explore 33 miles of wooded trails ideal for hiking, biking, or horseback riding across varied terrain.
- Spot wildlife along the way—from herons and hawks to tortoises, deer, and even wild turkeys.
- Relax at shaded picnic areas equipped with grills—perfect for post-adventure downtime.
Distance from Gainesville:
About a 1 hour and 15-minute drive north via I-75.How to Get to Big Shoals State Park:
Take I-75 North from Gainesville, then exit at US-129 North toward White Springs. Continue onto County Road 135 South; the park entrance will be on your left at 11330 SE County Road 135.Family-friendly Florida State Parks:
8. John D. MacArthur Beach State Park - a 25-minute drive from West Palm Beach
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Location:
North Palm Beach, FLHighlights:
If you're dreaming of sea turtles, crystal waters, and a slice of wild Florida coastline, John D. MacArthur Beach State Park is paradise. It’s the perfect blend of beach bliss and protected nature—just minutes from Palm Beach.Recommended For:
Beachgoers, conservationists, kayakers, families, snorkelers, and anyone hoping to glimpse nesting sea turtles.What I Love: ♥
Seasonal sea turtle sightings, kayaking with manatees, snorkeling off the beach, and the educational nature center with live exhibits.- Swim, snorkel, or dive along two miles of pristine beach backed by rare coastal and mangrove forests.
- Rent single or double ocean canoes to explore the estuaries and spot manatees or wading birds like great blue herons.
- Witness endangered sea turtles—loggerhead, green, and leatherback—all nest here seasonally.
- Picnic throughout the park at well-placed tables with ocean or forest views.
- Learn at the William T. Kirby Nature Center with interactive displays and live animals highlighting the park’s biodiversity.
Distance from West Palm Beach:
Approximately a 25-minute drive north via US-1.How to Get to John D. MacArthur Beach State Park:
Head north on US-1 from West Palm Beach. Turn right onto Jack Nicklaus Drive; the park entrance will be at 10900 Jack Nicklaus Drive.9. Hillsborough River State Park - a 30-minute drive from Tampa
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Location:
Thonotosassa, FLHighlights:
If you're after adventure, history, and a cool dip on a hot Florida day, Hillsborough River State Park checks every box. It’s got whitewater paddling, forest trails, and even a historic fort tucked into the trees.Recommended For:
Paddlers, history buffs, campers, hikers, families, and anyone wanting a scenic riverside retreat near Tampa.What I Love: ♥
Fast-flowing river fun, shaded hiking trails, a large campground, and guided tours of Fort Foster—the park’s Second Seminole War fort replica.- Paddle the swift Hillsborough River—rent canoes or kayaks and cast a line for bass, bream, or catfish.
- Hike or bike over seven miles of scenic nature trails through old-growth forests and along the water’s edge.
- Cool off in the park’s large swimming pool, open seasonally and perfect for summer days.
- Camp at one of 112 full-hookup sites, or enjoy a day at the park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and riverside relaxation.
- Tour Fort Foster on a ranger-led visit and learn about the Second Seminole War at the interpretive center.
Distance from Tampa:
Around a 30-minute drive northeast via I-75 and US-301.How to Get to Hillsborough River State Park:
Take I-75 to Exit 265 and head east on Fowler Avenue. Turn left onto US-301 North; the park entrance is at 15402 US-301 in Thonotosassa.10. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park - a 20-minute drive from Downtown Miami
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Location:
Key Biscayne, FLHighlights:
If you're dreaming of turquoise waves, soft sand, and a touch of Florida history, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is your spot. It’s a beach day and a heritage walk rolled into one perfect oceanside escape.Recommended For:
Beachgoers, families, history buffs, foodies, cyclists, and anyone craving Miami sun with a peaceful vibe.What I Love: ♥
A top-ranked beach, a historic lighthouse, authentic Cuban eats, and ocean views from both kayak and bike.- Swim and sunbathe along 1.25 miles of award-winning white sand—beach chairs and umbrellas available to rent.
- Tour the historic 1825 lighthouse and keeper’s cottage, with daily guided visits offered twice a day.
- Fish along the seawall, known for some of the best shore fishing in South Florida.
- Dine at two Cuban restaurants with open-air seating, or grab snacks and gear from the concession stand.
- Explore the park by ocean kayak or bike—rentals available—with 1.5 miles of paved trails and more off-road paths to roam.
Distance from Downtown Miami:
About a 20-minute drive south via the Rickenbacker Causeway.How to Get to Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park:
Take the Rickenbacker Causeway from Miami to Key Biscayne. Follow Crandon Boulevard to the southern end of the island—look for the park entrance at 1200 South Crandon Blvd.Plan Your Trip