Are you hiker looking for your next adventure in Florida? Look no further than the stunning state parks of Florida! With miles of nature trails and breathtaking scenery, these parks offer the perfect backdrop for a day of exploring and exercise. In this post, I’ll take you on a tour of the top 15 state parks in Florida that are perfect for hiking enthusiasts like you.
Florida is home to over 170 state parks, each offering its own unique set of hiking trails and attractions. From wild wetlands and pristine beaches to lush forests and sparkling lakes, the parks are sure to captivate your senses and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, Florida’s state parks have something for everyone. Just don’t forget your sunscreen and bug spray. This is still Florida after all!
The Top 15 Hiking State Parks in Florida
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park – Gainesville, FL
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is a vast and very unique park located in North Central Florida just south of Gainesville, with a wide range of hiking opportunities for nature lovers of all levels. This park is home to a wide open prairie, and nearly 40 miles of trails that take you through the prairie and through Florida pinewoods.
One of the main attractions at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is the La Chua Trail, a 3-mile hike that takes you along the prairie and over the swamp on a series of boardwalks. The trail offers awesome views of the prairie and its diverse wildlife, including lots and lots of alligators. Seriously, I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many alligators in the wild in one place then I did here. Paynes Prairie is also super unique in that this park has a herd of free roaming wild horses and American Bison! Did you even know we had wild Bison in Florida? This is also an outstanding park for birdwatching. With so many animals and plants, Paynes Prairie is the most biodiverse place in Florida outside of the Everglades, making it one of the best state parks in Florida for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
100 Savannah Blvd.
Micanopy FL 32667
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/paynes-prairie-preserve-state-park
Oscar Scherer State Park – Osprey, FL
Oscar Scherer State Park is a beautiful and unique park located on the Gulf coast of Florida between Sarasota and Venice, with hiking opportunities for nature lovers of all levels. This park is home to several miles of trails that take you through a variety of classic Florida landscapes, including pine flatwoods, mangrove swamps, and scenic lakes full of alligators (of course) and largemouth bass. This park is also home to a large population of Florida Scrub Jays, the only bird species endemic to the state of Florida, and brings a lot of bird watchers to the park for the chance to spot one.
There are a total of 15 miles of hiking trails here, but one of the more popular trails at Oscar Scherer State Park is the South Creek Trail, a 2-mile hike that takes you along South Creek and through a dense forest of oak and pine trees. The trail offers stunning views of the creek and its diverse wildlife, including alligators, making it a great hiking trail for those who love wildlife and nature.
For those who are looking for a more challenging hike, the Pine Ridge Trail is a great option. This 4-mile trail takes you through the park, offering stunning views of the flatwoods and surrounding Florida landscape.
Oscar Scherer State Park
1843 S. Tamiami Trail
Osprey FL 34229
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/oscar-scherer-state-park
Jonathan Dickinson State Park – Hobe Sound, FL
Jonathan Dickinson State Park is the largest state park in Southeast Florida. This beautiful park located along the Loxahatchee River just north of Jupiter is home to over 30 miles of trails that take you through a variety of landscapes, including pine flatwoods, mangrove swamps, scenic rivers, and even the remains of an old WWII training camp.
The most popular trail at Jonathan Dickinson State Park is the Kitching Creek Loop, a which takes you along Kitching Creek and through a dense forest of oak trees, pine trees, and lots of different flowers and birds.
For those who are looking for a more challenging hike, the River Trail is a great option. This 5-mile trail takes you along the scenic Loxahatchee River and through a lush forest of mangrove trees. And don’t forget to check out nearby Blowing Rocks Preserve, a beautiful beach with limestone outcroppings that create dramatic waves as they crash ashore splashing high into the sky.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
16450 S.E. Federal Highway
Hobe Sound FL 33455
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/jonathan-dickinson-state-park
Collier-Seminole State Park – Naples, FL
Collier-Seminole State Park is a park located in Southeast Florida near Naples, with hiking opportunities for nature lovers of all levels among one of the largest mangrove swamps on earth. This park is home to about 14 miles of trails that take you through a variety of classic Florida landscapes, including pine flatwoods, mangroves, and rivers.
One of the main attractions at Collier-Seminole State Park is the Black Bear Hammock Trail, a 2-mile hike that takes you through a dense forest of oak and pine trees with chances to spot an elusive Florida black bear. For those who are looking for a more challenging hike, the Royal Palm Hammock Trail is a great option. This 4-mile trail takes you through a lush forest of Royal Palms and other tropical trees.
Collier-Seminole State Park
20200 Tamiami Trail E.
Naples FL 34114
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/collier-seminole-state-park
Tomoka State Park – Ormond Beach, FL
Tomoka State Park is located on the site of the Timucuan village of Nocoroco, which was occupied by indigenous people for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers. Tomoka State Park only has about 6 miles worth of trails, far fewer than most on this list, but you’ll be soaking in the rich, ancient history of the region here. This park is also great for birdwatching, with Bald Eagles being frequently seen here.
Visitors can hike the Tomoka Trail, a short trail that takes you through the site of the village, giving hikers a chance to soak in the rich history of ancient Florida.
Tomoka State Park
2099 N. Beach St.
Ormond Beach FL 32174
https://www.floridastateparks.org/Tomoka
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park – Copeland, FL
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is a Florida gem located east of Naple in the heart of the Florida Everglades, making it a popular destination for those seeking a unique experience without having to drive even further south to Everglades National Park. With its lush swamps, towering cypress trees, and wildlife, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors to see this quintessentially Florida Natural Wonder.
One of the big draws to this park is the Ghost Orchid, a rare and elusive species of orchid found only in the park’s swamp forests. This orchid is known for its ethereal beauty and is one of the most sought-after species by orchid enthusiasts. Scenes from the Nicolas Cage film “Adapation” that was based on the book “The Orchid Thief” were set at this very wild state park.
The park also provides visitors with an opportunity to hike through the Everglades, offering a unique chance to experience and view this one of a kind iconic landscape. The wildlife you might spot here includes alligators, crocodiles, bears, Floridapanthers, and a huge of bird species. Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is a nature-lover’s paradise, but don’t forget your bug spray!
And if you’re reallys looking to get off the grid here, check out the Janes Scenic Drive. This 8-mile dirt and gravel road provides access to the park’s backcountry, offering amazing views of the park’s landscapes and wildlife.
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park
137 Coastline Drive
Copeland FL 34137
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/fakahatchee-strand-preserve-state-park
Highlands Hammock State Park – Sebring, FL
Highlands Hammock State Park is a beautiful destination for hiking enthusiasts located in Sebring, Florida. The park offers a unique combination of old-growth forests, tropical hardwoods, and wetlands, making it an ideal place for nature lovers to explore. The park’s hiking trails are well-maintained and vary in length and difficulty, so there’s something for everyone.
One of the most popular trails in the park is the Hammock Trail, which is a 2.5-mile loop that takes you through a lush forest filled with towering oak trees and lush undergrowth. Another popular trail is the Cedar and Fern Trail, which is a 1.5-mile hike that takes you through a dense, cool forest filled with ferns and other vegetation. This trail is especially beautiful during the spring, when the wildflowers are in bloom.
For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Wild Orange Trail is a 4-mile loop that takes you through the park’s interior, showcasing some of the tallest trees in the park. Along the way, you’ll cross several streams and pass by several sinkholes, making it a great way to get a closer look at Florida’s unique geology.
Highlands Hammock State Park
5931 Hammock Road
Sebring FL 33872
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/highlands-hammock-state-park
Koreshan State Park – Estero, FL
Koreshan State Park is a smaller state park, but it’s right in the middle of Estero, Florida making it easily accessible for any Florida hiker in the area that wants to visit for an afternoon. The park is known for its unique history and unique geological features, making it a great place for nature lovers to explore. The park’s hiking trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of different experiences, from leisurely walks along the river to more challenging hikes through the park’s interior.
One of the most popular trails in the park is the River trail, which is a 1-mile hike that takes you along the Estero River. This trail is great for birdwatching and offers stunning views of the surrounding wetlands. Another popular trail is the Pioneer Trail, which is a 2-mile loop that takes you through the heart of the park. This trail is a great way to see some of the park’s historic structures and learn about the park’s unique history.
For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Beneski Trail is a 4-mile loop that takes you through the park’s interior, showcasing some of its most unique geological features, including sinkholes and ancient shell mounds. Along the way, you’ll also pass by some of the park’s unique plant communities, including pine flatwoods and cypress swamps.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk in nature, Koreshan State Park is a great place to visit. With its stunning scenery, unique history, and well-maintained trails, it’s no wonder why it’s one of Florida’s most popular state parks for hiking.
Koreshan State Park
3800 Corkscrew Road
Estero FL 33928
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/koreshan-state-park
Myakka River State Park – Sarasota, FL
Myakka River State Park is a breathtaking destination for hiking enthusiasts located in Sarasota, Florida. One of the oldest and largest state parks in Florida, Myakka River State Park is known for its unique ecosystem and rich history. The park’s 40 miles of hiking trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of different experiences, from leisurely walks along the river to more challenging hikes through the park’s interior.
One of the most popular trails in the park is the Myakka Island Trail, which is a 2-mile hike that takes you through a lush forest filled with towering trees and diverse wildlife. This trail is great for birdwatching and offers stunning views of the surrounding wetlands. Another popular trail is the Upper Myakka Lake Trail, which is a 1.5-mile hike that takes you along the shores of Upper Myakka Lake. This trail is a great way to see some of the park’s diverse plant communities and wildlife, including alligators and other reptiles.
For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Willow Trail is a 3-mile loop that takes you through the park’s interior, showcasing some of its unique geological features and diverse plant communities. Along the way, you may even catch a glimpse of the infamous Skunk Ape, a mysterious and often-reported Bigfoot-like creature that has been rumored to live in the area. If you believe in that sort of thing.
Myakka River State Park
13208 State Road 72
Sarasota FL 34241
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/myakka-river-state-park
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park – Wakulla Springs FL
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park is located in North Florida and is a great little day drip for those who live near or who are visiting Tallahassee. The park is known for its crystal-clear spring waters, which are some of the deepest and largest in the world, and its rich history. The park’s hiking trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of different experiences, from leisurely walks along the river to more challenging hikes through the park’s interior.
One of the most popular trails in the park is the Wakulla Springs Trail, which is a 1-mile hike that takes you along the Wakulla River. This trail is great for birdwatching and offers stunning views of the surrounding wetlands. Another popular trail is the Nature Trail, which is a 0.5-mile hike that takes you through the park’s lush forest and along the shores of the spring. This trail is a great way to see some of the park’s diverse plant communities and wildlife, including alligators and other reptiles.
For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Boardwalk Trail is a 2-mile loop that takes you through the park’s interior, showcasing some of its unique geological features and diverse plant communities. Along the way, you’ll also pass by the historic Wakulla Springs Lodge, a beautiful stone and stucco building that dates back to the 1930’s.
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
465 Wakulla Park Drive
Wakulla Springs FL 32327
https://www.floridastateparks.org/WakullaSprings
Big Shoals State Park – White Springs, FL
Big Shoals State Park is a hidden gem located in North Florida, offering breathtaking views and challenging hikes for nature lovers. This park is a paradise for those who love to explore the great outdoors with 28 miles of trails, 80 foot limestone bluffs and white water rapids, making it a unique and exciting destination for hikers. There are few places in Florida like this.
One of the main attractions at Big Shoals State Park is the Big Shoals Trail, a 2.5-mile hike that takes you along the Suwannee River and through a dense forest of oak and pine trees. The trail offers stunning views of the shoals, rapids, and deep pools, making it a great option for those who love to witness the power of nature.
For those who are up for a challenge, the Big Shoals Trail is a great option. The trail takes you along the river and through a challenging terrain, with steep climbs and descents, making it a great workout for experienced hikers. However, the trail is well worth the effort, as the views of the shoals and rapids are truly breathtaking.
Big Shoals State Park
Little Shoals Entrance: 11330 S.E. County Road 135
Big Shoals Entrance: 18738 S.E. 94th St.
White Springs FL 32096
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/big-shoals-state-park
Hillsborough River State Park – Thonotosassa, FL
Hillsborough River State Park is a beautiful and unique park located just outside of Tampa, offering a range of hiking opportunities for nature lovers of all levels. This park is home to the Hillsborough River, which provides a stunning backdrop for your hike, as well as several miles of trails that take you through a variety of landscapes including one of the only stretch of white water rapids in all of Florida.
One of the main attractions at Hillsborough River State Park is the Fort Foster Trail, a 2-mile hike that takes you along the river and through a dense forest of oak and pine trees. The trail offers stunning views of the river, as well as the historic Fort Foster, making it a great option for those who love history and nature.
For those who are looking for a more challenging hike, the Hillsborough River Trail is a great option. This 7-mile trail takes you through the park, offering views of the river and surrounding landscape. The trail is challenging, with some rugged, root covered trails to navigate, but also has some some classic old Florida scenery to gawk at while you conquer it.
Hillsborough River State Park
15402 U.S. 301 North
Thonotosassa FL 33592
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/hillsborough-river-state-park
Honeymoon Island State Park – Dunedin, FL
Honeymoon Island State Park is a breathtaking destination for hiking enthusiasts located in Dunedin on Florida’s west coast. The park is known for its pristine white sand beaches, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife, making it a great place for nature lovers to explore. The park’s hiking toffer a variety of different experiences, from leisurely walks along the beach collecting seashells to hikes through the park’s interior to find Ospreys, Owls, and even Bald Eagles. This is one of the best birdwatching parks in Florida!
The most popular trail in the park is the Osprey Trail, which is a 1.5-mile hike that takes you through a pine forest filled with towering trees full of Osprey nests . This trail is famous for birdwatching and offers stunning views of the surrounding pinewoods and glimpse of the Gulf of Mexico. Another popular trail is the Shell Beach Trail, which is a 1-mile hike that takes you along the shores of Honeymoon Island’s stunning beaches. This trail is a great way to collect some seashells while looking at all the birds and even the occasional dolphin playing in the surf.
The Caladesi Connector Trail is a 3-mile loop that takes you through the park’s interio where you can to see some of the park’s wildlife including more ospreys, pelicans, gopher tortoises. Watch out for rattlesnakes though! This park has more than a few of them.
Honeymoon Island State Park
#1 Causeway Blvd.
Dunedin FL 34698
https://www.floridastateparks.org/honeymoonisland
Caladesi Island State Park – Dunedin, FL
Caladesi Island State Park is a little piece paradise located on the Gulf coast of Florida and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s on an undeveloped barrier island, and the only way to get here is by boat. You can take your own boat or kayak here, but there is a ferry that leaves from nearby Honeymoon Island too.
One of the most popular trails in the park is the Beach Trail, which is a 2-mile hike that takes you along the pristine shoreline of Caladesi Island’s world class beaches. This trail is a great way to enjoy those classic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Another popular trail is the Mangrove Trail, which is a 1.5-mile hike that takes you through a forest filled with mangrove trees and lots of palmetto plants. This trail is great for birdwatching too.
Caladesi Island State Park
Offshore island only reachable by boat
Dunedin FL 34698
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/caladesi-island-state-park
Little Manatee River State Park – Wimauma, FL
Little Manatee River State Park is a picturesque and serene destination for hiking enthusiasts located in Wimauma, Florida with 15 mile of hiking trails to enjoy. The park is known for its blackwater swamps that flow slowly toward Tampa Bay, and is an underrated hidden gem of a park.
One of the most popular trails in the park is the Bradburn Trail, which is a 2-mile hike that takes you along the stunning Little Manatee River. This trail is a great way to see some of the park’s diverse plant communities and wildlife, including alligators and other reptiles. Another popular trail is the River Trail, which is a 1.5-mile hike that takes you through a lush forest filled with towering trees and diverse wildlife. This trail is great for birdwatching and offers stunning views of the surrounding wetlands.
Little Manatee River State Park
215 Lightfoot Road
Wimauma FL 33598
https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/little-manatee-river-state-park