Florida is famous for its stunning beaches and abundant sunshine, but the Sunshine State has much more to offer. If you’re seeking an exciting outdoor experience, make your way to one of Florida’s finest state parks.
With activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing, these parks cater to a wide range of interests. So grab your sunscreen and water bottle, and prepare to discover the breathtaking natural landscapes of Florida.
Top 5 State Parks in Florida
Big Talbot Island State Park
Big Talbot Island State Park, a popular destination in Jacksonville, attracts an annual visitor count of 353,010. This hidden gem holds the top position on the list with an impressive rating of 4.90, backed by over 1,000 positive Google reviews.
Situated approximately 40 minutes north of Jacksonville, just off A1A before reaching Nassau Sound, the park offers a tranquil and picturesque experience.
To make the most of your visit, it’s recommended to arrive early in the morning and come prepared with essentials such as a packed lunch, fishing gear, a bicycle, or even a hammock to relax on the beach.
After parking your vehicle (at a cost of around $3), you can follow a half-mile trail leading to Boneyard Beach. This unique location showcases the captivating juxtaposition of driftwood and deceased trees against the backdrop of pristine white sands, creating a stunning setting for memorable photographs.
It’s worth noting that there are no restroom facilities available at the park, and unfortunately, dogs are not permitted.
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Blue Spring State Park
The annual number of visitors is 485,423.
Blue Spring State Park is located just a 7-minute drive west of Orange City and 40 minutes from Orlando. It is a stunning natural spring that offers the opportunity to observe manatees, alligators, birds, fish, and more.
The park features a well-maintained boardwalk that provides panoramic views of the area and is accessible for individuals with disabilities. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as snorkeling in the clear spring run, taking boat tours, scuba diving, tubing, and swimming.
It’s a perfect destination for spending an afternoon in the great outdoors! The park also offers the Pine Island Trail, a hiking path accessible from the lower parking lot. Although it’s a relatively long hike, it is easy to navigate. It is recommended to arrive early, as the park tends to fill up quickly.
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Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
The soft, white powdery sands of Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park resemble a small piece of the Caribbean in North Naples. Located approximately 117 miles south of Sarasota, the closest major city, this park attracts an annual influx of approximately 477,776 visitors.
It offers a picturesque setting for swimming and sunbathing, particularly suitable for children due to the calm and shallow waters. Additionally, this beach is known for its abundant treasures, including starfish, large shells, and sand dollars.
For refreshments and convenient dining options, head to Lot 4, where you’ll find food truck concessions and pleasant picnic areas. Parking is available at a flat rate of $6 per day.
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St. Andrews State Park
St. Andrews State Park, a beautiful 1,200-acre site located just off U.S. 98, is situated 98 miles away from Tallahassee. The park attracts a total of 472,087 visitors. It remains open throughout the year, starting from 8 a.m. until sundown. The entry fee for a two-occupant vehicle starts at $8.
Visitors can explore various attractions within the park, including a remarkable wildlife area, well-marked walking trails, picturesque beaches, fishing piers, and a jetty. All the facilities in the park are maintained in a clean and pristine condition.
Explorers have the opportunity to witness a diverse range of wildlife, such as dolphins, manatees, ospreys, bald eagles, belted kingfishers, red-shouldered hawks, gophers, tortoises, and deer, among others. St. Andrews State Park is renowned for its white sandy beaches and the mesmerizing emerald green waters.
The park is particularly delightful to visit during the spring and fall seasons, as the weather tends to be cooler compared to the hot Florida summers, which can reach temperatures as high as 91°F. Moreover, the park features a newly renovated RV park area, which has been revamped after Hurricane Michael.
The RV park provides level ground and is filled with clean gravel. The restroom facilities are well-maintained, and visitors can also avail of pay washers and dryers. The AT&T cell signal is excellent within the park premises, and there are plenty of restaurants and grocery stores conveniently located nearby, allowing for easy access.
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Henderson Beach State Park
With a visitor count of 385,841, Henderson Beach State Park is a must-visit destination for beach enthusiasts in the Destin area. Located just an hour’s drive west of Pensacola, which is renowned for its affordability, this park offers pristine white sand and crystal-clear blue waters for you to enjoy.
The park provides clean and well-stocked bathrooms, as well as convenient outdoor showers. However, please note that dogs and alcohol are not permitted on the beach, and soap is not provided in the showers. While the beach can get busy, it doesn’t become overly crowded.
You can also take advantage of the excellent umbrella and chair service, available at a reasonable cost of $6 for a day’s pass. After a day of sun-soaked fun, you can satisfy your hunger at Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar and Grill or Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., both conveniently located across from the beach.
