National Parks and Natural Wonders That Make Florida a Must-Visit

Just a short drive southwest from Miami, the Everglades National Park reveals a vast, subtropical wilderness unlike anywhere else in the United States. Visitors can explore the Anhinga Trail near the park’s Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, an easy boardwalk loop that offers close-up views of alligators basking on the banks and flocks of vibrant birds like herons and egrets. What sets the Everglades apart is its distinct sawgrass marshes and slow-moving waters, creating a unique ecosystem that supports endangered species such as the Florida panther and manatee. Early mornings or late afternoons in the cooler months make for the best wildlife sightings, with golden light filtering through the cypress trees enhancing the experience.
Heading north to the Gulf Coast, the weeki Wachee Springs State Park lies about 45 minutes west of Tampa, famous for its crystal-clear spring waters and its historic underwater mermaid shows. Beyond the kitschy allure, the park offers the serene Buccaneer Bay kayak trail that winds along the river, passing through lush hardwood forests and clear springs teeming with fish. The park’s natural springs are part of one of the world’s longest underwater cave systems, making it a haven for divers and snorkelers. Springtime, when the water is at its clearest and temperatures are mild, allows visitors to fully appreciate the vibrant underwater life and the park’s signature cool springs.
In northeast Florida, just east of Jacksonville, lies the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. This sprawling green space features a network of trails weaving through salt marshes, maritime forests, and tidal creeks. The Kingsley Plantation is the centerpiece here, a remarkably preserved 18th-century estate offering insights into colonial history and the lives of enslaved Africans. Hikers can enjoy the 4.5-mile Theodore Roosevelt Area trails, which offer birdwatching opportunities alongside scenic views of the expansive marshlands. The combination of rich history and unspoiled nature makes this preserve a rare and memorable stop. Fall and winter months bring cooler, less humid weather, making outdoor exploration more comfortable.
On Florida’s Panhandle, about 20 minutes east of Panama City, St. Andrews State Park beckons with its white sandy beaches and emerald-green waters. Besides swimming and shelling, the park is prized for its nature trails like the nature boardwalk to the St. Andrews Bay shore, where visitors can spot osprey, egrets, and occasionally dolphins. What distinguishes this spot is its mix of beach and pine forest, offering a diverse natural experience in one location. The park’s Gulf-facing beaches are especially stunning at sunrise, and late spring through early fall provides ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling in the warm waters.
Further inland near Orlando, the Wekiwa Springs State Park offers a lush escape about 25 minutes north of downtown. The park centers around a large natural spring that feeds the Wekiwa River, known for its crystal-clear, 72-degree water perfect for swimming and canoeing. Visitors enjoy hiking the 5.5-mile Wekiwa Springs Trail, which traverses hardwood forests and pine flatwoods, or paddling along the river’s gentle current. The park’s blend of easy access and diverse habitats makes it a top choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Winter months bring cooler air and fewer insects, enhancing the overall experience of hiking and swimming here.
Down in the Florida Keys, Dry Tortugas National Park lies about 70 miles west of Key West, accessible only by boat or seaplane. This remote island park is home to Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century coastal fortress surrounded by vibrant coral reefs. Snorkeling in the clear waters reveals an underwater wonderland of tropical fish, rays, and coral formations. The park’s isolation and historic fort create an unforgettable combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when the seas are calm and the skies clear for smooth boat rides and excellent snorkeling.
Near the center of the state, the Ocala National Forest stretches across more than 600 square miles northeast of Orlando. The Juniper Springs Recreation Area within the forest offers a striking crystal-clear spring perfect for swimming, canoeing, and picnicking. Hiking the Juniper Springs Trail provides a moderate 7-mile loop through dense pine forests and past bubbling streams. What sets this area apart is its mix of forest and spring ecosystems, a rare combination in Florida’s landscape. Visit during the cooler winter months to escape the summer humidity and crowds, when the water remains invitingly cool for swimming.
These diverse natural treasures—from subtropical wetlands and spring-fed rivers to coastal fortresses and sandy beaches—showcase Florida’s extraordinary environmental variety. Each destination offers immersive ways to engage with the state’s unique landscapes and wildlife, inviting visitors to explore beyond the typical sun-and-theme-park itinerary. Whether paddling through mangroves near Miami or snorkeling coral reefs in the Keys, Florida’s parks and natural wonders promise unforgettable encounters with the wild beauty of the Sunshine State.