Myakka River State Park features over 38 miles of looped trails with plenty of crossovers that help you make your hike as long or short as you like. The trail system offers a variety of terrain, everything from dry prairie to marshes to heavily-wooded areas. Late fall is the perfect opportunity to traverse the area as summer heat here can be extremely hot, especially in the prairie lands. For an invigorating hike, start at the trailhead just off North Road (on the left if you’re coming from the North Gate). Here you can embark on a hikers-only trail that can take you deep into the park. Beware the alligators!
Located in Lake Kissimmee State Park, this seven-mile trail takes you deep through some of Florida’s most beautiful wonders. Full of wet prairies, oak hammocks, and pine flatwoods, hikers will marvel at the variety of habitats and terrain along the way, including the abundance of deer in the area. The trail itself isn’t especially difficult, but its length signals you should be in decent shape if you want to make it from start to finish.
Just east of Tampa lies one of Florida’s most surprising, best kept secrets: whitewater. Take the Alderman’s Ford Nature Preserve Trail to see it for yourself. This trail winds over three miles through the 10,000-acre preserve, showing you glimpses of the Alafia River as it crashes over limestone boulders and shows you a side of the Sunshine State you may have thought you’d only find in the mountains.
Take your pick between the four-mile loop or its shorter 2.2-mile counterpart here—they’re both equally scenic and enjoyable. The trailhead begins in the midst of Babcock Ranch, so you’re likely to see cattle roaming free. In fact, these free-range cattle are what make this trail so interesting (in addition to other wildlife, such as deer and raccoon). You may even see real cowboys wrangling them as you traverse the area, giving you entertainment as you enjoy your fairly moderate hike.
This hike could go on for over eight miles if you wanted it to, but it’s been divided into two separate trails because of a land dispute. If you prefer a shorter hike, the down-and-back trail provides a total of nearly six miles of Florida beauty. As one of the most scenic hikes in the northern part of the state, this trail parallels the glistening Withlacoochee River at certain points and takes you through the ghost town of Ellaville. If you’re looking for them, you’ll also see remnants of other historic structures along the way, including the Drew Mansion Ruins.
]]>Embark on a nature walk beneath the majestic 400+ year old Fairchild oak tree. Here, you and your pup will have the chance to explore an ecologically diverse area, home to a variety of wildlife.
Take in breathtaking views of Turkey Creek from the boardwalk. Enjoy the fresh air and the peaceful atmosphere of this park. Soak in the sun with your pup and explore the abundance of wildlife.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along a 3-mile trail system through the shaded oak hammock and a cabbage palm forest. Complete the short Mini-Adventure trail for a more wilderness experience with your four legged friend.
Bring your pup and explore the rare ecosystems of this 187-acre property. Enjoy activities such as hiking, canoeing, horseback riding and camping with your furry friend!
This 1,500-acre natural area is home to a wide variety of wildlife species. Explore the hydric hammock, floodplain forest and sandy terrain with your pup, and enjoy a day of nature at its best. Have a day all terrain expedition with your furry friend and see what you discover!
Take a break and have a picnic at one of the three tables in this small nature park. Enjoy the fresh air and the sights of the area with your pup. Take in the flora and fauna of Winter Springs.
This 240-acre property lies on the Seminole/Orange County line and boasts an array of activities such as hiking, canoeing and horseback riding. Find out more about this Oviedo oasis with your pup, it might just be your new favorite place to explore.
Explore this 1600-acre property with your pup and observe various species of wildlife, including the White-tailed deer and the Florida Black Bear. The floodplain of the St Johns River is breathtaking.
Enjoy some outdoor fun with your pup at this 8-acre nature preserve. Take a walk along the boardwalk and fishing pier, or explore the trails with your pup.
Featuring a mostly flat terrain, this trail offers a great opportunity for cycling, running, walking and skating with your pup. With multiple access points, you and your pup can explore this trail to your heart's content.
]]>Alderman’s Ford Park in Lithia, Florida, is one of the most accessible parks in the state. The Alderman’s Ford Park has an easy loop through a heavily wooded area. Enjoy the cypresses, oaks, and sand-bottomed streams. The loop is only 0.3 miles, which isn’t much for the serious hiker, but is perfect for those with minimal experience. Keep in mind that there is a $2 entrance fee.
The largest national forest in Florida, Apalachicola covers more than 600,000 acres of land and is perfect for the journeyman backpack hiker. Gander at the blooming pitcher plants each spring and venture into the Bradwell Bay Wilderness. The fees are generally $3 per vehicle, with additional camping fees at sites along the various trails.
Alligator Lake provides one of the nicest day hikes in the state. Hiking is the park’s primary focus, with picnic areas, playgrounds, canoe launchings, and hiking trails sprinkled throughout. Take the Montgomery Trail for the longest loop around the lake, which is about three miles in length. At around the mile and a half mark, you’ll likely start to see alligators in the lake. Follow the dike to avoid a face-to-face. Check the website for a mile-marker breakdown.
Bear Lake Trail is part of Blackwater River State Forest near Munson, Florida, and offers the perfect dog-friendly hike. The trail is a four-mile loop around a reservoir. Many visitors bring their pets. You might see alligators along the trail, but it’s more common to see various types of birds and anglers trying their luck on the water.
One of the best, quick, four-mile-long nature trails is through the Carney Island Recreation and Conservation Area near Ocklawaha, Florida. If you follow the Fox Trot Loop to Lemon Point, you’ll find panoramic views of Lake Weir. Wildlife lovers will enjoy spotting deer, fox squirrels, birds, and more. Keep in mind that there is a $5 fee to enter the park.
]]>The Everglades are known as the most iconic natural feature in the Sunshine State for good reason. Teaming with wildlife that is unique to the area, the Shark Valley is one of the most popular for those hoping to get a glimpse of this infamous swampland. Prepare to be amazed by the birds, gators, and other wildlife you might see as you walk or bike the trail. Going to the Observation Tower at the midway point is a must—the panoramic views you’ll see here are magnificent!
Hoping to see Florida’s very own sea cow, also know as the manatee, in it’s natural habitat? Then head over to Blue Spring State Park and walk the 1.3-mile boardwalk trail. This short, easy trail is perfect to bring the kids along to, as there are many viewing platforms to use to view the majestic manatees as they swim and drift. Here you won’t run in to just one or two of these creatures, but rather a few hundred if you come on a good day!
Known as the only state park in Florida to offer cave tours to the public, the Florida Caverns State Park amazes hikers with its limestone stalagmites, flowstones, and draperies. The Caverns Trails System is actually a group of intersected trails that surround Tunnel Cave and the outer loop is approximately 1.5 miles. This is the only trail in the state where you hike through a cave! Pay the extra few dollars to do the cave tour (you won’t be sorry) and then begin at the Floodplain Trail. Don’t forget to pack a flashlight—cutting through Tunnel Cave can be a little eerie without one.
This 2.5-mile trail is a boardwalk, meaning it’s easy to navigate. At Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, you’ll trek through an old-growth cypress forest as you view trees that are up to 600 years-old! Make your way to the Observation Deck for some beautiful views and great opportunities to see the striking birds that are native to the area. Make sure to check out the “Recent Wildlife Sightings” board before you begin—you never know what you might see!
The Blackrock Trail on Big Talbot Island is a great outdoor adventure for those who love to be by the sea. Situated between Amelia Island and Little Talbot Island, this spot’s rare rocky shoreline is unlike any of the other beaches in the state. The dark rocks and large pieces of driftwood scattered around the shore will have you feeling as if you’re stepping onto a West Coast beach! This mile-long hike is very popular, so get here early to check out a more remote look at this unusual spot.
]]>Nestled in Wekiwa Springs State Park, this moderate to difficult trail is excellent for trail runners. At 10.2 miles, trail traffic is typically light, giving you free and clear access. Throughout your run you’ll be encircled by some of Florida’s best natural scenery, with wildlife sightings a very high possibility. The trail travels over a variety of terrain, everything from palm scrub to boardwalks to pine tree terrain.
This trail inside Shingle Creek is the perfect spot to glimpse the headwaters of the Everglades. Though short and sweet, this trail provides beautiful scenery and easy terrain for a refreshing run. Shingle Creek flows alongside the trail for the most part, which means you have a high chance of seeing some of Florida’s wildlife while you’re here. Best of all, the trail gives off a secluded, tucked-away feeling that can make your run as relaxing as it is energizing.
If you’ve ever wanted to travel through the Everglades, the Shark Valley Tram Road is your prime opportunity. In addition, the trail offers an excellent workout as you enjoy all the sights and sounds of the beautiful ecosystem here. The trail itself is easy enough, however, if you plan to enjoy the trail in its entirety, you should know you’re in for a good 15-mile trip. Along the first half of the loop, you’ll have ample opportunity to glimpse alligators and native birds as you’re rushing by. Many trail runners opt to turn around at the midway observation tower, as the second half of the loop isn’t nearly as scenic.
Easy and simple is the beauty of the two miles of trails at Jacksonville Arboretum. Here you’ll pass by some of the most beautiful sights in the arboretum and gardens, including a lake and wooded areas. Known to locals as one of the most beautiful places to hike in the area, the various terrain is also a perfect opportunity for trail running. Some sections of the trails remain flat, while one quarter-mile stretch features 25 feet of elevation changes. It’s not a difficult or long run, which makes this an attractive spot for beginner trail runners.
You’ll want to use caution on this trail, as runners have reported numerous sightings of Pygmy rattlesnakes. Despite the potential wildlife dangers, this trail makes an awesome opportunity for runners to experience the Estuarine Research Reservation. The 9.2-mile loop is divided into various sections, so you can make your run as lengthy as you can handle. The trail itself is relatively flat throughout, and it takes you along boardwalks over marshes, alongside waterfronts, and through some of the state’s most beautiful nature scenes. This is one trail you’ll want to visit again and again.
]]>Originally created to protect migratory birds, this refuge plays home to much more than feathered friends. Hosting a diverse population of more than 350 bird species, visitors can expect to spot birds of prey, shore and wading birds, waterfowl, and migratory birds. Bald eagles have been known to make their appearance here, as well as hawks, herons, egrets, warblers, blue jays, and others. One of its mainstays is the threatened Florida scrub-jay. The refuge holds one of the state's three stronghold populations of this species, whose habitat is under constant threat.
Free and open to the public, this former wastewater property is now dedicated to fostering nesting and roosting. Visitors can enjoy the .75-mile boardwalk that winds over water and near islands that play home to over 175 bird species. This spot is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, and offers prime viewing of birds in their natural habitat. Wading birds are in abundance here, as well as plenty of birdsong to accompany you on your stroll around the park.
This particular park focuses on the treatment, rehabilitation, and needs of raptors. Here you can get up close and personal with bald eagles, owls, ospreys, kites, and falcons. The park offers a boardwalk that takes you to the nearby lake for more bird and wildlife spotting opportunities. The center here offers a chance for citizens to become part of a bald eagle monitoring program, where participants can find, monitor, and report on nests in the wild. Or, you can visit the Magic of Flight barn that gives you a first-hand look into the rehabilitation efforts of these magnificent birds.
Given the abundance of wildlife in this area and its system of trails and observation areas, it’s no wonder that Tree Tops Park has established itself as a must-visit for birdwatchers. There are three trails in the park, one of which leads to a 28-foot-high observation tower that offers magnificent birding views. In addition, the park’s varied marshes, lake, and wooded area make it attractive for many different bird species. Wading birds, waterfowl, raptors, and woodpeckers have all been known to frequent the area, especially in and around the Pine Island Ridge portion of the park.
Explored by none other than William Bartram himself, this magnificent park is one of Florida’s premiere sites for birdwatching. Combing marshes, wetlands, hardwood hammocks, flatlands, and swamps into a single experience, birdwatchers can count on seeing one of the most diverse bird populations in the state. Sandhill cranes are viewable year-round, but fall through spring bring the most variety: winter sparrow, waterfowl, hawks, warblers, and other species frequent the area during migration. In total, there are about 270 bird species throughout the year, along with other wildlife to keep you company.
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Hot Spots To Fish: Deservedly, Montauk, NY at the eastern end of Long Island is considered a storied mecca for striped bass fishermen. If you’re not going surf fishing on the beach or fishing from a jetty, Gone Fishing Marina (631-668-3232, gonefishingmarina78.com) can set up a charter trip for you. If it’s booked up, try Star Island Yacht Club (631-668-5052, starislandyc.com) or Montauk Marine Basin (631-668-5900, marinebasin.com).
Find the best fishing spots near you:
- Connecticut
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- New York
- North Carolina
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Virginia
- Washington, D.C.
Down south, talk to the folks at Captain Hogg’s Charter Service (757-876-1590, captainhoggscharters.com) about fishing around the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Overdrawn Charters (252-202-4623, overdrawncharters.com) in Manteo, N.C. can help as well.
Tackle You’ll Need: Stick with 30- to 50-pound braid or monofilament and a 60-pound-test shock leader of fluorocarbon, with saltwater-ready spinning tackle heavy enough to handle 10- to 14-foot rods. Penn, Quantum and Okuma specialize in fairly inexpensive surf-fishing rods, and reels to match. If you have a reel, but no rod yet, the new Black Inshore Rods from Lamiglas are up to the task. The five spinning and five casting models range from a 6-foot, 10-inch light finesse spinning rod to a 7 ½-foot casting rod rated for lures from 3 to 12 ounces in weight.
Quick tip: The most successful anglers are those who spot gulls or other wheeling seabirds feeding on baitfish driven to the top by stripers and who then cast into the melee without dispersing the bass. From a boat, the trick is to approach schools carefully and take advantage of wind or tide to drift to within casting range. The stripers will stay up as long as the baitfish are hemmed against the surface.
Best Lures/Baits: The 4 1/2-inch Acme Kastmater XL spoon, the 1 ½-ounce Odin Popper, and the 5-inch pencil popper from Tsunami are popular artificials up and down the Atlantic seaboard. Other popular options include the 6- or 7-inch Savage Gear Sandeel Swimbait, 9-inch Sassy Shad swimbait and the 6-inch Rapala X-Rap SubWalk.
Find the best bait and tackle shops near you:
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- North Carolina
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington, D.C.
- West Virginia
For anglers who’d rather soak baits from a boat or in the surf, live or cut bait, such as Atlantic menhaden (peanut bunker), herring, porgies, eels, bloodworms, anchovies and mullet, can flip the switch on chaotic striper blitzes.
Related articles that may interest you:
Fish Here This Fall—5 Reel-Screaming Adventures
How to Choose the Best Times to Fish
Likewise, bass fishing is starting to pick up again as the weather begins to cool. Huge schools of threadfin shad are starting to filter away from open-water ledges into bays and tributaries where feeding conditions and water temperatures are more optimum.
Bass follow the food, first setting up on ledges at the mouths of inlets and creeks to waylay shad, then migrating back toward shallower water to keep up with their quarry.
Fall Script for Southern Bass
Bass rule in Dixie and cooler weather brings out an army of anglers who go after them. Whether largemouth, smallmouth or spotted bass, they’re available in most waters and sometimes all three varieties are present in a fishery, ready to aggravate or gratify those who seek them.
Hot Spots To Fish: When it comes to the South’s best lakes for fall fishing, the big TVA impoundments fit the bill. Because this is bass tournament country, dozens of YouTube videos and Facebook sites of pro anglers offer useful advice on where and how to catch autumn largemouths. Likewise, guide services are plentiful; just Google “fishing guides” for the lake you’re visiting or type in the town nearest the lake you wish to fish on the interactive map on this page.
Tackle You’ll Need: A 7-foot medium/heavy rod such as the St. Croix Premier Cranking, a baitcasting reel like the Abu Garcia Revo Winch and 10- to 14-pound-test monofilament makes a good combination to fish downsized lures.
Quick tip: This is strictly a match-the-hatch deal. Use lures that are about the same size as wandering shad. If young-of-the-year threadfins are on the bass menu, try small swim baits fished on drop-shot rigs.
Best Lures/Baits: Shad-colored, shallow- and medium-diving square-billed or coffin-billed crankbaits are autumn standouts. Popular lures include the Strike King 6XD, Bandit 100 or 200, Duo Realis M65, Livetarget Magnum Shad BaitBall Squarebill, Megabass S-Crank, Lucky Craft Squarebill 2.5, Storm Arashi and Rapala Shad Rap.
Fish them around shoreline cover and on the flats between creek drop-offs and the bank. Other fallback baits include spinnerbaits like the Booyah Super Shad, Stanley Vibrashaft and Nichols Pulsator. Good buzzbait options can be found from Lunker Lure, Damiki, Santone and Dirty Jigs.
Find the best fishing spots near you:
Find the best bait and tackle shops near you:
Rendezvous With Redfish
Along the northern Gulf Coast from Carrabelle, FL, to Grand Isle, LA, the redfish season begins in late September and continues in stages through December. Some anglers fish in the surf with cut bait, while others station themselves on area piers or in boats on relatively shallow flats near channel cuts.
Hot Spots To Fish: For boating anglers, a couple of spots stick out. Pensacola Bay Pass is a must-fish for boaters. Anchor up on the broad flat between old Fort Pickens and the channel, set out lines as the tide changes to incoming, and hang on. Need more help? Redfish University Pensacola Fishing Charters (850-748-4368, redfishuniversity.com) specializes in the big drum.
At Grand Isle, LA, book a trip with Gotta Go Fishing Charters (225-921-3642, gottagofishingcharters.com). The marshes and inshore waters around Venice, LA, are primo redfish haunts as well. Captain Mike Frenette (504-782-0924, laredfish.com or ([email protected]) is a top guide here.
Tackle You’ll Need: “Rat” reds of 3 pounds and up, or real bruisers weighing in excess of 20 pounds require a range of tackle options. Bass fishing tackle – whether spinning or baitcasting – is perfect for handling smaller fish and for casting jigs or swimbaits that weigh less than an ounce. A Shimano Stradic spinning reel and 7-foot medium-action Shimano Compre rod with 14-pound-test monofilament.
For bigger fish, consider a Penn Battle II BTLII5000 with 20-pound-test monofilament or 40-pound-test braid, and a 30-pound-test fluorocarbon leader. A 7-foot medium-heavy spinning rod (such as the Penn Battalion BATIN1220S70) should handle any bait rigs or lures and wear down a bull redfish in short order.
Quick Tip: Incoming tides in late evening or at night are primo times for reds as the fish free-spawn then in the mouths of coastal bays and estuaries. If you can’t fish any other time, make sure you fish the incoming tides.
Best Lures/Baits: Redfish aren’t particular about their dietary requirements and will eat anything from blue crabs to halved mullet. Swimming spoons such as the Johnson Sprite (johnsonfishing.com), swimbaits and jigs or even topwater poppers, such as the Heddon Saltwater Spook, will elicit strikes.
Related articles that may interest you:
Fish Here This Fall—5 Reel-Screaming Adventures
How to Choose the Best Times to Fish
Florida isn’t exactly known for its crags and mountains—truthfully, it doesn’t really have any. Which is why Floridians had to get creative when crafting their rock climbing experiences. The rice cake-style Lawyer Up! boulder behind the Ft. Lauderdale courthouse is a favorite among Florida climbers. The boulder has a continual spotlight on it, which makes it ideal for a night climb.
Quite possibly the only freestanding boulder in the Sunshine State, climbers have touted the back side of this rock as the best problem in West Florida. Standing at just over nine feet-tall, it won’t take you long to reach the top. While you’re here, you can enjoy an airboat ride or nature walk through the breezy canopy.
What Florida lacks in mountains it makes up for in limestone. Inside of this beautiful nature preserve you’ll find limestone cliffs that are begging for a climb. Be warned, though: You’ll want to start you climb quickly to avoid the crashing waves. You’ll also want to be prepared for some finger cuts, as many sections of the cliff have sharp holes and grips. It’s a small price to pay for the beautiful views that await you. The best time to climb here is during low tide, so check your calendar before you head out.
If you’re looking for an all-day adventure, set your sights on Egmont Key. You’ll start your day with a boat or ferry ride to the island—it’s the only way. From there, you can enjoy the wildlife refuge and explore the ruins of the old fort—which is where your climbing journey begins. It’s an easy bouldering experience on this cluster of historical remnants. However, make sure you pack your own food and drinking water—there is none to be found on the island.
Adjacent to the Wellington Skate Park, this man-made boulder sits in the midst of Village Park. Climbers have a few V2-V3 options and can make their way around the entire boulder. It’s not going to take up your entire day, but it’s a good climbing experience in a state that’s better known for its beaches and flatlands.
]]>This 30-mile network of roadways makes for a stunning fall drive. However, if you prefer to get out and enjoy the reds, oranges, and yellows on foot, make your way to Bulow Creek State Park and hop on one of the nature trails. The Bulow Woods Trail gives you your best chance of soaking in the scenery. At just over 13 miles round-trip, the trail will take you over a bridge, through the live oak hammock, and along some of the most beautiful fall scenery you’d have never known Florida was hiding.
With over 16 miles of challenging trails, the fall colors here make your trek worthwhile. Here you’ll find a landscape that’s more akin to the mountains of North Carolina than Florida flatlands. However, it’s also the perfect terrain for Florida’s native southern sugar maples that turn ablaze with color in late October/early November. You’ll also get breathtaking views of the Apalachicola River from 150-foot bluffs inside the park.
Aside from playing home to the world’s largest, deepest freshwater spring, this park also provides pristine fall foliage views. There are over 10 miles of trails throughout the park that lead through hardwood hammocks, champion trees, floodplains, and other sights. There’s also plenty of wildlife to see along your journey—alligators, birds, and even the occasional manatee are known to make an appearance within the park.
]]>Situated on 9,000 acres of cypress swamps and flatwoods, this park has been delighting visitors for over 86 years. If you’re looking for Florida wildlife, you’ll most likely see it here—visitors report seeing black bear, Florida panther, alligators, deer, turtles, and myriad birds throughout the year. The park features activities for all ages, including boardwalks, tram tour, picnic pavilion, hiking, camping, and recreational rental areas. There’s no park in Florida quite like it.
Eight out of nine of the park’s hiking trails are accessible via the loop drive, enabling trekkers to extend or shorten their walk as they wish via connecting and inter-looping pathways. Trails travel through multiple swamps and flatwoods areas that offer plenty of shade and solitude. However, don’t think you’re ever truly alone—wild eyes are often nearby, and hiking this trail gives you your best chance at spotting them in their natural habitats.
Hop aboard the tram that takes you to places you’d never see on foot. Guided tours take you through the cypress swamps and into restricted areas, giving you all-around views of the park. Along the way, you’ll see some of the park’s residents, such as alligators, wading birds, and other wildlife. The tour lasts about an hour and 15 minutes, and costs just $5 for adults and $3 for children ages six to 12.
Highlands Hammocks is a popular camping destination for good reason: They offer just about every type of camping for every type of camper. Choose between primitive campsites or equestrian camping, or bring the RV and avoid sacrificing your modern conveniences. The campground here is family friendly, and features restrooms, showers, dishwashing area, and free Wi-Fi.
Whether you’re an artist yourself or simply appreciate the works of others, you’ll want to check out the Highlands Museum of the Arts. Exhibits change regularly, and have often included a variety of media, such as painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, and projection. You might even stumble upon a class or art show while you’re there.
Cowpoke’s makes for a truly glorious spot to fill up your belly after a long day. You’ll love the food. You’ll love the décor. You’ll love the atmosphere. At Cowpoke’s, you’ll find a unique tiki bar, live music, and enough space for almost 300 people. The menu consists of lobster tails, mahi mahi, tuna, mussels, oysters, scallops, catfish, shrimp, and even frog legs! Their cuts of steak are absolutely to die for.
A 1926 railroad depot plays home to this railroad museum. One of the top attractions of the museum is their beloved dining car, which is available for scheduled events and luncheons. The museum also features a variety of exhibits depicting all things railroad and the growth and prosperity of Avon Park.
If you’re not planning to camp in Highlands Hammock State Park, consider resting your head at the Jacaranda, a true Florida original and charming piece of history. This once booming inn was built in Avon Park’s heyday, before the rise of interstate system rendered the town an off-the-beaten-path stop. However, the Jacaranda never lost its appeal, and its grandiose statement still inspires in small-town Avon Park. The hotel owners have preserved its rich history, offering a pleasant, unique experience to its guests.
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Home to Florida’s highest waterfall, Falling Waters is a natural treasure trove just waiting to be discovered. The boardwalk leading to the falls is lined with fern-hidden sinkholes and massive trees. Even the falls drop into a deep sinkhole and its water’s final destination remains a mystery. Campers love coming here because of the area’s prime hiking grounds. Since Florida doesn’t exactly have mountains, the gentle slopes here can sate any hiker’s cravings while taking them on a magical excursion through Mother Nature’s changing seasons.
If you truly want to get away from it all, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for at Cayo Costa State Park. This primitive little island is only accessible by private boat. Once you make your way there, campers can set up base, then go explore the miles of pristine shoreline, watch for dolphins and manatees, or enjoy a seaside picnic. The island is chock full of crisscrossing nature trails that can show you the best sights and sounds of the island.
You might arrive alone, but you’ll never camp alone at this KOA campground. This is the state’s only campground where you can fall fast asleep listening to the sounds of more than 1,000 animals right outside your accommodations. Visitors can walk next door to the Lion Country Safari and get to see the animals up close, or simply enjoy their serenades as you take in all the campground has to offer. This campground is also a popular spot for Halloween weekenders looking for a fun-filled vacation— costume contests for people and pets, pumpkin carving, and trick-or-treating are just a few of the draws that make this a desirable spot for fall camping.
Whether you prefer backcountry camping or a full-service campground, you can take your pick here. The park offers over 13 miles of hiking trails that lets you take in all the sights and sounds of Florida in the fall. In addition, the area offers a scenic 10-mile paddling trail if you want to bring your kayak or canoe (or rent one at the park). It’s an excellent opportunity to see some of the Sunshine State’s native wildlife up close or through your camera lens.
If you’re looking to combine your camping experience with prime wildlife viewing, you’ll want to stake out a spot in the Osceola National Forest. Here you can take your pick of RV site, campgrounds, or “dispersed” camping that’s tucked away from the sounds of other campers. Be advised: bears call this forest home, and you should be prepared in case your paths cross.
]]>With “lakes for fishin’, skiin’ and waverunnin’, mud pits for gettin’ dirty, trails for motocrossin’ and hills of dirt and rock to challenge the best off-road vehicles and drivers,” Lazy Springs is an off-roading haven. This spot is well-loved by locals, as it provides ATV areas to tear through the water and get a little muddy. Lazy Springs also has regularly scheduled events so be sure to keep up with their Facebook page!
Croom is an excellent place to find your footing in the world of off-roading. Sitting on 2,600 acres of land, with smooth, well-maintained riding trails, all levels of experience can enjoy this spot. Not only do they offer an excellent space to hone your skills, they’ll actually teach you how to do it, too! Participate in a one-hour, two-hour or three-hour dirt bike or ATV training class with a professional.
What was once an old logging community is now a thrilling mud bog and ATV area. This 1,100-acre outdoor family fun park offers areas for ATVs and UTVs to blast through the mud or explore the nearby forests. On the premises, you’ll also find RV sites and cabins in case you’re planning to stay the night. You might want to pack a change of clothes, because things can get a little muddy!
This adventure park is geared toward families. Of the outdoor excitement available at the ranch, you’ll find ATV trails, camping, horse trails, fishing, a swamp buggy area, dirt biking area, mudding, and a whole lot more. The best part about Florida Cracker Ranch is that their ATV area is exciting for both the novice and advanced rider. The area can be rugged, but still accessible to those with less experience. Don’t worry, the trails are marked to indicate the level of difficulty.
Big Cypress offers big fun as far as off-roading goes. The area is very remote, and is mostly explored by airboat and swamp buggy. Visit the national park website to see a trail map, and make sure to stay within the designated areas during your visit. There are many miles of trails to explore at Big Cypress, which is characterized by vast swamp areas and abundant, diverse wildlife.
*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.
]]>Start your engines at Country Roads Cafe, one of the best breakfast spots in town. This homey little downtown diner has all your favorite morning fuel-ups, from eggs and bacon to country fried steak. It’s just like Grandma used to make, loaded with flavor and southern hospitality.
Don’t let the name fool you—you’ll be working plenty hard on your off-roading ride here. This sprawling park has a little something for everyone, including fishing, zip lines, mud pits, obstacle course, motocross, and rocky hills to challenge every rider. If you want to get your days’ worth, you can bring along the tent for an overnight camp.
Located within the hotel that you will be staying the night in, 1st Street Deli is delicious and open 24 hours! Their hot deli sandwiches will be the perfect thing to quench your hunger after a long day on the trails. Try their Southern fried shrimp po’boy made with fried breaded shrimp on a French baguette with lettuce, tomato, garlic pickles, and remoulade sauce.
Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, you can relax and unwind after a long day of off-roading. Enjoy a few cocktails in the casino, try your hand at Lady Luck, take a dip in the pool, or enjoy a live show to cap off your adventure. The accommodations here are clean and cozy so you can get a restful night’s sleep after a long day of riding.
Before heading home, be sure to enjoy the surrounding area just a little bit more. The Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch is a truly fascinating historical site. Since it was first settled in 1872, the Immokalee community has been home to hunters, trappers, cowmen, missionaries, and many others. This former home of cattleman Robert Roberts is now a sprawling, 13-acre historic site—and is actually the longest-running ranch in South Florida. The exhibits are captivating and on the site, guests will find 15 wonderfully preserved original buildings, illustrating what the lives of cow hunters, ranchers, and pioneer families were like.
]]>As the leaders in local adventure, the folks at Tampa Bay Outfitters know how to help hikers and adventurers of all sorts get the most from their experience. They carry all the clothing, footwear, sunglasses, and gear you need for a day on the trails, and can help you avoid making a second trip elsewhere. Choose from favorite brands like Patagonia, the North Face, Osprey, and dozens more.
Peter Glenn Ski & Sports features several locations throughout Florida in addition to an online store to help hikers get high-quality gear no matter where they roam. For hikers, they offer poles, boots, and clothing for the whole family, along with sunglasses, gloves, mittens, socks, and other accessories. Stock up on trusted brands like Camelbak, the North Face, and HotHands.
No one knows hikers’ needs like fellow outdoor enthusiasts. That’s why you’ll never want to go anywhere else for your apparel or gear than Trail & Ski. Locally owned and operated, the team here knows the area well and can direct you to the best trails and other outdoor hot spots. In addition, they back up their products with real experience to ensure you get the right stuff the first time. They’re proud to carry favorites like Marmot, Patagonia, and Mountain House for their fellow hikers.
No matter where you roam, Intracoastal Outfitters can help you get there in the best possible way. You’ll find best in class brands like Keen hiking boots and Chaco wearables to help you get what you need in a single trip. They also specialize in comfort footwear, offering orthopedic inserts, custom fitting, shoe stretching, and other services to help you continue your passion for hiking.
Just a stone’s throw from Destin, this local outfitter can meet your hiking needs every bit as much as a big-name store. With a special level of personalized service, you’ll find all your outdoor needs from backpacks, to clothing, to medical kits, to hydration. Brands like Saloman, Life is Good, and Hydro Flask are known to dominate the shelves, along with other top-quality labels for the best possible hiking experience.
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Who says a walk in the woods means you have to sacrifice style? Columbia Sportswear knows how to outfit hikers from head to toe in the most fashion-forward way possible. Their stores are dedicated specifically to the Columbia Sportswear brand, offering essentials like jackets, accessories, and clothing for layering.
When it comes to outdoor quests, no one knows your needs like the North Face. They make clothing and backpacks perfect for whatever weather Mother Nature throws at you, and can help you stay prepared. When you invest in a good jacket and backpack like these the first time, chances are they’ll last you for many years to come.
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