Top State Parks in Florida
The Sunshine State is chock full of beautiful places to enjoy nature. Check out these top state parks to visit during your vacation in Florida.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a world-class park and the top destination in the Florida state park system, attracting around a million visitors annually. As the first underwater park in the U.S., it spans approximately 178 nautical square miles, encompassing coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove swamps. Established to protect the only living coral reef in the US, it’s renowned for diving and snorkeling experiences that showcase some of the most stunning and diverse underwater communities.
Myakka River State Park, Sarasota
Myakka River State Park stands as one of Florida’s largest and most ecologically diverse natural areas, covering approximately 45 square miles. The Myakka River flows through the park for 12 miles, providing an array of recreational opportunities. An airboat tour is available on Upper Myakka Lake, complemented by seasonal tram tours offering views of the park’s unique hammocks and river floodplain. The park features around 7500 acres designated as a wilderness preserve, home to abundant wildlife, including cottontail rabbits, deer, bobcats, and red-shouldered hawks. For equestrian enthusiasts, a 15-mile riding trail accommodates visitors who bring their own horses.
Paynes Prairie State Preserve, Micanopy (Gainesville)
Paynes Prairie is recognized as one of the most significant natural and historical areas in Florida. Spanning 20,000 acres, this preserve has been a focal point for human activity for thousands of years, with Native American habitation dating back to 10,000 B.C. Ranger-led walks and backpacking trips provide exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities from an observation tower near the visitor center. The park also offers horseback riding, bicycle trails, hiking paths, and camping facilities for all visitors to enjoy.
Wekiwa Springs State Park, Apopka (Near Orlando)
Wekiwa Springs State Park boasts 7800 acres of stunning natural scenery that reflects the environment of central Florida when the Timucuan Indians hunted and fished in the area. As the headwaters of the beautiful Wekiva River, Wekiwa Springs produces a remarkable 42 million gallons of spring water daily. The park is home to several threatened and endangered species, including the Southern black bear and the American bald eagle. Popular activities in this picturesque setting include swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Wekiwa Springs and canoeing along the Wekiva River. Facilities for group camping with cabins, a meeting hall, and dining area are available, as well as a family campground and primitive youth camping area.
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, Port St. Joe (NW Florida)
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park features miles of pristine white sand beaches, striking dune formations, and a lush, heavily forested interior. Rated #3 in the U.S. in the 1999 “Best Beaches Survey” by coastal researcher Dr. Stephen Leatherman (known as “Dr. Beach”), it has become a sought-after destination for nature lovers. The park is an exceptional birding area, with sightings of 209 species recorded. Visitors can find furnished vacation cabins located on the St. Joseph’s Bay side of the park, along with 118 campsites equipped with water, electricity, picnic tables, and grills.
