16 State Parks in Florida You’ve Never Heard Of But Should Definitely Explore
Florida is known for its gorgeous beaches and bustling cities, but the state parks scattered across the Sunshine State offer an entirely different kind of beauty. While places like Everglades National Park and the Florida Keys often steal the spotlight, there are plenty of lesser-known state parks that deserve more recognition.
These hidden gems provide serene landscapes, outdoor adventures, and a perfect escape into nature. Here are 16 underrated state parks in Florida that you need to add to your bucket list.
Big Shoals State Park
Located along the Suwannee River, Big Shoals State Park offers one of the most thrilling white-water rapids experiences in Florida. It’s perfect for kayakers and nature lovers alike.
The park also boasts beautiful trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting, making it an underrated spot for adventure seekers and photographers.
Highlands Hammock State Park
This park is a hidden oasis of lush greenery, offering peaceful walks under canopies of oak trees draped with Spanish moss. Highlands Hammock is perfect for anyone seeking tranquility.
The park is also home to one of the oldest and most diverse swamps in the state, with wildlife like alligators, armadillos, and various bird species.
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Big Bend Wildlife Management Area
Big Bend Wildlife Management Area is a serene retreat for bird watchers, hikers, and those interested in exploring Florida’s untouched wilderness. Its remote location near the Gulf of Mexico offers stunning coastal views, wildlife sightings, and a diverse array of ecosystems to explore.
Lake Kissimmee State Park
Despite being located near the theme park capital of the world, Lake Kissimmee State Park remains relatively quiet. It offers vast open spaces, wildlife viewing, and water activities.
Visitors can explore the peaceful trails, enjoy fishing in the lake, or even spot wild horses roaming the park.
Torreya State Park
Torreya State Park, known for its steep bluffs and rich history, is a gem for history buffs and nature lovers. The park features several miles of hiking trails and offers stunning views of the Apalachicola River.
It’s a great spot for birdwatching and offers plenty of solitude, away from the crowds of other parks.
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St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Situated on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the state. With crystal-clear waters and stunning dunes, it’s a perfect getaway for those looking to relax by the ocean, enjoy water sports, or simply stroll along the shore.
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park
Known as Florida’s Amazon, Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is a unique and relatively unknown treasure. The park is famous for its rich biodiversity and offers boardwalks through dense mangroves and swamps.
It’s a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts looking to capture the untouched beauty of the Everglades.
Silver Springs State Park
Although Silver Springs was once a major tourist destination, it’s now a peaceful retreat offering boat tours, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. The crystal-clear waters of Silver Springs make it an ideal spot for kayaking and watching manatees, all without the crowds of more popular parks.
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Ravine Gardens State Park
Located in Palatka, Ravine Gardens is a peaceful escape featuring manicured gardens, scenic walking trails, and a glimpse into the natural ravines of Florida. The park is a botanist’s dream, with beautiful azaleas and towering trees providing a backdrop for relaxing strolls and birdwatching.
Ochlockonee River State Park
This tranquil park along the Ochlockonee River offers a peaceful environment for fishing, canoeing, and camping. With its winding river and quiet woods, it’s a perfect spot for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Wildlife sightings, such as otters and deer, are common.
Blackwater River State Park
Blackwater River State Park, located in the Florida Panhandle, is home to one of the clearest rivers in the state. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and tubing on the river, or hike through the lush forest.
It’s a lesser-known gem that offers a true sense of wilderness and quietude.
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John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
While not as under-the-radar as others, John Pennekamp remains a hidden gem for those interested in underwater exploration. As the first underwater state park in the U.S., it offers spectacular opportunities for snorkeling and diving in the coral reefs off Key Largo.
The park also features lush mangroves and tropical wildlife.
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve is the place to visit for bird watchers, especially those hoping to catch a glimpse of the endangered Florida grasshopper sparrow. The park features expansive prairies, wetlands, and nature trails, making it a perfect spot to escape the crowds and explore Florida’s wild heart.
Manatee Springs State Park
This park is a hidden gem for nature lovers. Famous for its crystal-clear springs, Manatee Springs offers a serene environment for swimming, boating, and hiking.
It’s also a prime spot for observing manatees during the cooler months when they seek out the warm waters.
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Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park is an elegant yet peaceful park in Tallahassee, known for its stunning formal gardens and historical legacy. Perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic, the park boasts some of the most beautiful botanical collections in Florida, including camellias, azaleas, and magnolias.
Lake Louisa State Park
Lake Louisa is an underrated haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic lakeside views, camping opportunities, and miles of hiking trails. The park is perfect for a family getaway, offering activities like fishing, biking, and horseback riding.
It’s also a great spot for watching wildlife, with plenty of birds and deer.
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