Most people may think of South Beach or Disney World when they think of Florida vacations, but in fact the Sunshine State has plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts as well. The state's three national parks and numerous state parks offer visitors the chance to swim, snorkel, hike, cycle, canoe and wildlife watch, among other activities. Camping overnight is a popular option, as it cuts down on traveling time, leaving more opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.
Alafia River State Park
The reclaimed land—a former mine—that makes up Alafia River State Park has some of the state's best off-road biking. The park has trails for hikers too, as well as horseback riders. The park's riverside position means that fishing, canoeing and kayaking are also popular options. There are full-service campsites with electricity that are fit for RVs and campers. Primitive camping is offered, but campers must complete a 2-mile round trip hike to get there and back. Group and equestrian camping is also available in the park.
Falling Waters State Park
Falling Waters State Park contains Florida's highest waterfall. It has full facility camping as well as an area for groups, including youth camping trips. Visitors can hike the park's nature trails, fish and swim in the park's 2-acre white sand lake.
Everglades National Park
The Everglades National Park is probably Florida's most well known and offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, boating, fishing, canoeing and kayaking opportunities. Many visitors prefer to camp in the Everglades so they can spend more time doing these activities and less time driving to them. There are two modern campsites—Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground; the latter takes reservations.
Backcountry camping is also available.
Although camping is available year-round, the wet season can be challenging, so only experienced campers who are prepared for the weather should attempt it.
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is a water lover's paradise. Visitors can walk the self-guided tour of Fort Jefferson and then join one of the tours that offer snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing and wildlife viewing. Camping keeps visitors much closer to the action as there is a 10-site, primitive campground on the same island as the fort. However, the island is only accessible through boat or seaplane, and campers have to bring their own food, water and fuel, so planning ahead is crucial.
Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park is another hot spot for water lovers. Boating, canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing and lobstering are just some of the activities in this island park.
There are two campgrounds, Boca Chita Key Island and Elliot Island, which are only accessible by boat. Boca Chita is more primitive, while Elliot has cold running water for sinks and showers as well as drinking water and two well-maintained trails are accessible from the campground.
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