From coral reefs to Everglades habitats, state parks with camping in South Florida and the Florida Keys may be few but they are distinguished. (3rd in a series)
Recent Articles
Sebastian: An old Florida river town and great base for kayaking and exploring
In Sebastian, you find a walkable and scenic Indian River Lagoon riverfront plus great places to explore, especially by kayak.
Free things to do in Florida: My 10 favorite freebies for nature lovers
Many of these free things to do in Florida are off-the-beaten path spots to enjoy nature, wildlife and history — from 300-year-old forts to superb boardwalks.
15 North Florida State Parks with cool campgrounds
Diverse eco-systems are the hallmark of North Florida state parks with camping, from beaches to cool springs and deep woods hideaways.
With its out-of-the-way location, Cedar Key preserves its charm and history
It’s a long way from just about anywhere — and that’s part of its beauty. But it’s also a great place to bicycle, kayak, hike, watch sunsets and spot birds. An 1859 hotel, now a charming B&B, plus fresh seafood restaurants add to its appeal.
11 enchanting Central Florida state parks with camping, cabins and ‘glamping’
Central Florida is home to a diverse selection of Florida state parks with Glamping, Cabins, RV and tent camping, Many are convenient to Disney World and Universal Studios. Check it out! @FLStateParks @FLStateParksFdn
Endangered right whales return to North Florida coast every winter
Endangered right whales are viewed close to shore in North Florida every winter. A Fernandina Beach family festival Nov. 7-8 raises awareness of the whales and how to help.
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.
Camping
Camping with the Corps: Waterfront sites at locks along the Okeechobee Waterway
Campers get a front-row seat to the passage of yachts, sailboats and trawlers crossing Florida through locks at three Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds.
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
Fanning & Manatee Springs: Hidden treasures for cabins, camping
Fanning Springs and Manatee Springs state parks on the Suwannee River offer beautiful springs, cabins, camping, kayaking & biking in Northwest Florida. Where is this Florida wonderland? Far off the beaten path.
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.
