Diverse eco-systems are the hallmark of North Florida state parks with camping, from beaches to cool springs and deep woods hideaways.
Recent Articles
5 scenic rides near Daytona Beach
A roundup of scenic rides near Daytona leading up to next week’s Biketoberfest (October 16-19).
Emerson Point Preserve: Four reasons to discover this jewel in Palmetto
Emerson Point Preserve is an exceptional county park, off the beaten path on the southern end of Tampa Bay. There is excellent hiking and kayaking, and the real gem is the Portavant temple mound.
Big Bend Scenic Byway: Old Florida roadtrip
Big Bend Scenic Byway winds through an area that sees fewer tourists and offers rustic Old Florida delights at each turn — from black bears to white squirrels.
Florida’s 12 best county parks are treasures
These terrific county parks are popular with locals, rich in things to do, awaiting discovery by the Florida traveler.
Top 75 Florida events, fairs & festivals in 2026
Our festival calendar is constantly updated and we’ve been following the festival scene for 15 years. Here are 75 hand-picked festivals around the state that range from off-beat local bashes to huge nationally known cultural events.
Withlacoochee State Trail: This might be Florida’s best bike trail
This 46-mile paved Central Florida rail trail is a smooth, safe ride. But what makes it special is the scenery, parks & towns to explore along the way.
Historic Jungle Trail is an unpaved road to explore original Florida
The picturesque 8-mile sand road in Vero Beach takes you past historic landmarks, including the first US wildlife refuge and a pioneer homestead overlooking the Indian River Lagoon. You can walk, bicycle on fat-tire bikes or drive it slowly. This is an original section of A1A.
Honeymoon Island: Spectacular natural beach with charming Old Florida history
Honeymoon Island in Dunedin has a big, natural beach where you can get away from people, but also offers a cafe and bikes and kayaks to rent. Its history involves actual honeymooners drawn here during the Great Depression in a real estate scheme.
Frank Lloyd Wright in Lakeland: 13 unique buildings, and now a planetarium
Florida Southern College in Lakeland has a remarkable collection of buildings designed by America’s most famous architect. Now a planetarium Wright designed has been restored and reopened. Lakeland itself is a hidden gem worth visiting.
Long Point Park is a delightful island campground near Sebastian Inlet
One of my favorites, Long Point is a spacious county park with an abundance of waterfront sites on an island in the Indian River Lagoon.
Fall camping brings cooler temps and a morsel of color
As cold fronts ease into the Sunshine State during October, conditions become more favorable for fall camping. You might even get a whiff of autumn color.
Camping
30 awesome county parks with affordable camping
Florida is blessed with amazing public parks with campgrounds. While our award-winning state parks get most of the attention, dozens of county-operated parks slip under the radar. County parks are often more available, accessible and near fun things to do. […]
Beaches
Honeymoon Island: Spectacular natural beach with charming Old Florida history
Honeymoon Island in Dunedin has a big, natural beach where you can get away from people, but also offers a cafe and bikes and kayaks to rent. Its history involves actual honeymooners drawn here during the Great Depression in a real estate scheme.
Bike and Hike
Emerson Point Preserve: Four reasons to discover this jewel in Palmetto
Emerson Point Preserve is an exceptional county park, off the beaten path on the southern end of Tampa Bay. There is excellent hiking and kayaking, and the real gem is the Portavant temple mound.
Springs
Lafayette Blue Springs State Park: Cool springs, comfy cabins, kayak the Suwannee
Remote, rural and picturesque, northwest Florida rewards your long drive with sparkling springs, the beautiful Suwanee River and scenic rural roads. This state park’s cabins make a great base to explore the region.
Snorkel and Dive
Where can you go snorkeling in Florida if you don’t own a boat?
I have long enjoyed snorkeling from shore to see colorful sealife. Over many years, I’ve scouted these great places to snorkel and see fish from the beach.
