floridaparks

Hatbill Park

Brevard County features a unique site known as Hatbill Park, an excellent place for boating. Situated on the edge of St. Johns River, the park is a beautiful spot for bird-watching. This conservation area is home to waterbirds, eagles, and even the lovely Crested Caracara. At night, the park hosts several nocturnal birds, such as Great Horned Owls and Chuck-will’s-widows.
A 24-hour boat ramp allows kayaks and canoes to traverse the waterways and get a closer look at the local flora and fauna. Additionally, overnight camping is permitted but must be cleared by special request at the Sandrift Community Center Site. There are 5 campsites to choose from within the 15-acre park. There are no bathrooms or hookups for RVs so make sure you have everything you need. Most visitors say most visitors the weekends are hectic at Hatbill Park, so plan for a weekday if possible!
Photo Credit: Dan Kon
Author Sarina Pennington
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Jungle Hut Park

Jungle Hut Park is an excellent beach choice for nearby Flagler residents and tourists.
The two-acre park hosts an abundance of amenities, such as beach access, bathrooms,
showers, and parking. Jungle Hut Park is also dog-friendly!
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Peruse the sand dunes and search for local wildlife that puts Jungle Hut Park on the map.
Ruby-throated hummingbirds usually stop to smell (and pollinate) the flowers during summer
while the unusual gannet stops in for the winter. Throughout the year, you can spot plenty of
seabirds and rock-dwelling sealife.
Jungle Hut Park is perfect for relaxing, bird-watching, and throwing a stick for Fido, but
this beach is not suggested for swimming. Rocks in the surf make this location subject to strong
undercurrents dangerous to swimmers. We suggest instead a lovely picnic with a pair
of binoculars. Happy birding!
Photo Credit: Dan Kon
Author: Sarina Pennington – IOF Volunteer
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Abercrombie Park

Abercrombie Park is a small but mighty park located on the western end of St. Petersburg, with a main paved trail leading to the waterfront area. A combination of sand and boardwalk trails that wind through a small preserved ecosystem and sites of historical significance. This beautiful park is also packed with a lot of shade!
The park contains remnants of the pioneer Abercrombie family homestead, a historic mound, and shell midden that have been traced back to Native American settlements that resided in the area from 140 to 565 AD. The city also purchased the house on the north end and placed boardwalks and other amenities to expand the park further. There is a picnic table at the top of the Mound.
Don’t miss this great gem for a serene walk, contemplative meditation, and a brief reminder of the area’s human and environmental history. Abercrombie Park is a beautiful site for a quiet and shaded evening stroll while enjoying a Florida sunset over Boca Ciega Bay.
Amenities:
Wildlife Viewing
Native American Midden
Information Kiosk
Waterfront
Parking Area
Interpretive Signage
Nature Trails (paved, sand) and Boardwalks
Picnic Area
Dogs on Leash
Seating/Teaching Area
Address: Park St N 38th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33709
For more information:
Author and Photo Credit: Bobby Putnam
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Canova Beach Park AKA Canova Dog Park

Does your dog love playing in the ocean and on a sandy beach? Canova Beach Park is a beach in Southern Brevard County where dogs are allowed.
Your furry friend must be leashed with tags with an updated license and proof of current rabies vaccination. Please clean up after your dog.
Canova Beach Park is located on Indian Harbor Beach. This pet-friendly 9.1-acre community park offers a picnic pavilion, barbecue grills, a restroom, and outdoor showers. Disposal materials and receptacles for dog waste are provided to keep the beach clean.
Photo Credit: Ray Myers
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Fort Island Trail Park

Are you looking for an exciting outdoor adventure? Look no further than Fort Island Trail Park. Located in beautiful Citrus County, this 14-acre riverfront park offers various recreational activities, making it the perfect destination for families, hikers, and nature enthusiasts.
Saunter along the West Fort Island 0.5-mile out-and-back trail. Bring your own kayak or canoe and explore the serene waters of Fort Island Trail Park, beginning at the Nature Coast Canoe and Kayak Trail launch point.
Be sure to bring your binoculars and keep your cameras ready. Fort Island Trail Park is part of the Florida Birding Trail. It is home to many unique wildlife, including migratory birds, songbirds, shore birds, and water birds. The park offers fantastic opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography.
Fort Island Trail Park is the ideal spot for a family outing. Picnic areas and open spaces are perfect for family gatherings, birthday parties, or a relaxing day out with your loved ones.
Photo Credit: Dan Kon
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Campbell Park

Campbell Park is named after Captain William H. Campbell, a member of one of Deltona’s founding families and a casualty in the Vietnam War. It was established more than 30 years ago and was renovated in 2008. Campbell Park has 14 acres and is located along McGarity Lake in Deltona.
There is a playground for young children. People of all ages will enjoy the day as you sit among the multiple benches in the park. The park has a basketball and tennis court for those that play these sports. Dog owners appreciate the small walking trail around the park. It can be a new unexplored place for your companion!
Walk on top of the floating dock which is connected to two piers, to enjoy the scenic view of the lake. For a more enhanced view of the lake, walk along the boardwalk to the two-story observation deck for an overlooking view of the lake. This park is excellent

for those that want to enjoy a relaxing day!
For more information, you can click on https://www.deltonafl.gov/parks…/slideshows/campbell-park.
Author and Photo Credit: Destiny Alvarez, Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences – Oregon University

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Halpatiokee Regional Park

Located in Stuart, Halpatiokee Regional Park is Martin County’s largest park. There are 65 acres surrounded by wetlands, with 4 miles along the South Fork of the St. Lucie River waiting to be explored. Discover the many species of native plants, including 13 threatened or endangered species, that thrive there.
Saunter through the scrub, pine flatwoods, and oak hammock. Plenty of gopher tortoises call Halpatiokee home. There are 8 miles of hiking and 8 miles of biking trails. Bring your canoe or kayak and paddle for 4.2 miles along the St. Lucie River. Look for otters, turtles, a variety of fish, and alligators. Spend a night or more at the riverside primitive campsite. Covered picnic areas and pavilions are the perfect places to enjoy a picnic lunch.
Photo Credit: Courtney Smith
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Loxahatchee River Battlefield Park/Riverbend Park

Located in northern Palm Beach County and adjacent to the 665 acres of Riverbend Park, Loxahatchee River Battlefield Park is 61 acres of beautiful, natural, and historic Florida. Both parks are full of fantastic outdoor activities for everyone. The parks have a general appearance and upkeep similar to the level of national parks. This site includes not just one but two of the significant battles that occurred in 1838 during the Second Seminole War: Powell’s Battle – January 15, 1838 and Jesup’s Battle – January 24, 1838. Thanks to current preservation efforts, you also get to see Florida as the first settlers did.
With almost 10 miles of hiking/biking trails, 7 miles of equestrian trails, and 5 miles of canoeing/kayaking trails you could spend hours and see only half of Loxahatchee River Battlefield Park. With its location near I95 in Jupiter, one could easily stop for a quick stroll to stretch your legs on the first trail that is paved. If you have more time, it is even better to saunter further down along the Wild and Scenic Loxahatchee River, check out the old Cracker Farmstead, and picnic in the shade under one of the many Seminole chickees built throughout the park.
If you would like a cardiovascular experience, the large hard packed trails are also biker friendly and shared with hikers throughout the park. If you would rather take the water route, make sure to come with plenty of time to explore the wild Loxahatchee River. If you would like to bike or kayak and don’t have one, don’t worry, the park has you covered! Kayaks and bicycles are available to rent under the large chickee.
Watch for family-friendly special events year-round. A moonlight bicycle stroll through the park is offered monthly. They have the most outstanding guest speakers so make sure to check the park schedule for upcoming events. The park includes full bathroom facilities and a very friendly informative ranger station.
Riverbend Park is a Leave No Trace park, so what trash you bring in, you bring out! Overall, this has to be the best local/city park I have found in the state yet!
HOURS: Sunrise- Sunset
Amenities:
nature trail/area
The following amenities are located in adjacent Riverbend Park
– parking, ca​noe/kayak, ​fishing
– equestrian trails (nearly 7 miles) Equestrian Parking is available
– Picnic chickees with single tables and pavilions – available on a first-come, first-served basis
– Picnic pavilion available by reservation on Picnic Island
For more information, click the following links.
Author and Photo Credit: Bobby Putnam
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Wellington Rotary Peace Park

– Saturday Saunter –
Wellington Rotary Peace Park
 
The Wellington Rotary Peace Park was dedicated on September 21, 2007. This beautiful park, located in the village of Wellington in Palm Beach County, includes 14 acres of wetlands and grassy areas.
 
There is a nice boardwalk over the wetlands and an open-air gazebo that houses the Peace Pole and dedication marker. Plenty of pickerelweed grows amongst cypress trees and Florida swamp lilies.
 
Flags from the United Nations, the United States, Rotary International, the Wellington Rotary Peace Park, Florida, and the Village of Wellington are displayed in the grassy area surrounding the rotunda.
 
Located very conveniently next to the library and schools., Wellington Rotary Peace Park is a great, safe park that sits on the edge of full suburbia. The park provides a nice peaceful site to meditate in a natural setting while immersing yourself in Nature.
Author and Photo Credit: Bobby Putnam
 
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Sand Key Park

Where can you visit a park and walk on the beach? Sand Key Park, a Pinellas County Park, is located in Clearwater. Between tall condos that line the beach on both sides, an amazing park and a beautiful white sand beach lie within its 95 acres.
At Sand Key Park you will find a boardwalk and a nature trail. Sit for a while on the benches in the rare salt marsh where you will see a variety of wading birds nesting or feeding. If you are lucky, you will discover the great-horned owl who makes its home there. There are two covered areas with grills to enjoy your picnic, a playground for the kids, and a large fenced dog park for your dog. Events and weddings with permits can be scheduled in the picnic area and green space.
The beach area is the perfect place to spend the day. There are two bath houses with restrooms and changing stalls. Umbrellas and cabanas are available to rent. Lifeguards are on duty seasonally. Beach wheelchairs are available. Special Events and Beach weddings are popular on the beach. Gulls share the beach, and sea turtles use the beach to lay eggs. At the end of the day, rinse the sand off in one of the outdoor showers. Be sure to stay for the gorgeous sunset. Will you see a pirate ship?
For more information:
Photo Credit: Dan Kon
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Lake Istokpoga Park

Lake Istokpoga Park
At nearly 28,000 acres, Lake Istokpoga is the 5th largest lake in Florida. Located in Sebring, Lake Istokpoga Park is an outdoor delight. Saunter along the nature trails, pier, and boardwalk. There’s plenty of parking for your vehicle with a trailer and a double boat ramp to launch into the lake that averages four to six feet deep. Enjoy your lunch at one of the picnic tables under Spanish-moss-draped trees or in a pavilion.
Lake Istokpoga Park can be found on the north shore of Lake Istokpoga. Look for wading birds, songbirds, waterbirds, raptors, and more along this Florida Birding Trail.
Fun Fact: Ospreys build more nests in this little county park than they build in most other places in the US.
Photo Credit: Ileana Rodriguez
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Collier-Seminole State Park

Collier-Seminole State Park, located in Naples, is a 7,271-acre park that offers the opportunity to explore part of the Great Mangrove Swamp of South Florida and an original stand of royal palms. Discover wildlife and wildflowers like those in the Everglades.

Learn about the Bay City Walking Dredge No. 489, a mechanical engineering marvel that walked forward as it dredged limestone to create a road from Tampa0 to Miami.

Collier-Seminole State Park has four wonderful nature trails ranging from less than a mile on the Royal Palm Hammock Nature Trail to the 5.25 mile Strand Swamp Trail. Discover the plants and animals, many imperiled, that live in the park. The park is designated a Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail so be sure to bring your camera/binoculars.

Launch your canoe or kayak at the ADA accessible launch. Explore the Blackwater River on the 13.5-mile canoe trail. As you paddle through the mangroves to Blackwater Bay, look for crocodiles, alligators, otters, manatees, and a variety of wading birds.

Primitive camping sites and campsites for your RV and tents are available. There are bike trails, two pavilions, picnic tables, and a playground for your enjoyment. Leashed pets are welcome.

For more information: https://www.floridastateparks.org/…/collier-seminole-state-…

Photo Credit: Ileana Rodriguez

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Ravine Gardens State Park

Ravine Gardens State Park features Whitewater Branch Creek, a spring-fed stream. It took thousands of years for the flowing water to form two ravines that are up to 120 feet deep with 45-degree angles. As the water flows through the banks, it carries soil and sand into the St. Johns River.
During the Great Depression, Ravine Gardens State Park became one of nine New Deal state parks in Florida. The Federal Works Progress Administration created a fascinating garden that featured over 270,000 plants on the slopes of the ravine. The park opened to the public on July 4th, 1933.
Today, the ravines have been left to transform back to the way Nature intended naturally. Ravine Gardens State Park continues to inspire with its five acres of formal gardens, stone features, fountains, water features, and historic gardens, including hundreds of azaleas.
Bike, hike, or drive the Main Park Drive Loop, a 1.8-mile paved road that winds around the ravine, offering incredible views of the surrounding area. Hike the Azalea Trail, a two-and-a-half-mile shady trail through the ravine. Trod through muddy and steep paths, crossing historic suspension bridges and stone staircases. Look for birds. foxes, skunks, armadillos, opossums, squirrels, otters, turtles, fish, alligators, and other wildlife.
Numerous picnic sites, equipped with tables and grills, are available for visitors. A wheelchair-friendly playground awaits your enjoyment. A large covered pavilion, auditorium, and meeting rooms are available for larger gatherings or events at the Roy E. Campbell Civic Center.
Pets are welcome in Ravine Gardens State Park and on the trails when they are kept on a six-foot, hand-held leash. Ravine Gardens State Park is situated in Palatka, Florida, in Putnam County.

 

For more information: https://www.floridastateparks.org/…/ravine-gardens-state-pa…

Photo Credit: Bobby Putnam

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Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park
Here are no lofty peaks seeking the sky, no mighty glaciers or rushing streams wearing away the uplifted land. Here is land, tranquil in its quiet beauty, serving not as the source of water, but as the last receiver of it.
~ President Harry Truman
Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the US. Its 1.5 million acres include swamps, marshes. mangroves, hardwood hammocks, pinelands, sawgrass, and slough ecosystems. It is designated an International Biosphere Reserve, a World Heritage Site, a Wetland of International Importance, and a protected area under the Cartagena Treaty.
Once measuring 11,000 square miles, the Everglades contained a slow-moving sheet of water which balanced the ecosystem in southern Florida. Colonial settlers saw the area as farmland. Developers found it suitable for development. In the early 1900s, the wetland was being drained for development. Years of human interference in this natural landscape severely damaged the ecosystem and imperiled the animals and plants who once thrived there.
Everglades National Park was established in 1947 at the insistence of scientists and conservationists to conserve the remaining natural landscape. Animal and plant species found only in the Everglades became protected. Many of the Everglades’ ecosystems are fire-dependent, therefore, a fire regime is in place. Prescribed burns not only assure that the animals and plants will survive but also thrive in their homeland. In 1977, Congress named 86% of the park the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wilderness in honor of her relentless work on behalf of protecting the Everglades. There are 21 protected species in the wilderness and 1/3 of the area is submerged.
Everglades National Park provides boundless opportunities for research. Current research includes the study of invasive plants and animals as well as wildlife and hydraulic monitoring. Located on the edge of the Atlantic ocean that is experiencing sea level rise, the Everglades is the perfect place to study the changes already caused by Climate Change as well as future changes that are certain to occur.
Everglades National Park is waiting for you to explore the ecosystems and discover the endemic and legally protected animal and plant species. Look for abundant alligators, white-tailed deer, and bobcats. Discover rare and endangered species such as American Crocodiles, Florida Panthers, and West Indian Manatees.
There is plenty to explore and discover at Everglades National Park. Guided tours, boating, and hiking are wonderful ways to learn about the park. Camping sites are available for RV’s and tents. For the more adventurous, Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wilderness offers primitive camping complete with dark night skies for stargazing.
Temperatures average 53°F to 77°F from December through April. May through November is the wet season when the humidity and temperatures are high. There are 4 entrances, each with their own unique areas to explore. Be sure to click on the link below to plan your trip.
Photo Credit: Aymee Laurain
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John B. Sargeant Conservation Park

John B. Sargeant Conservation Park

Named after a member of the Hillsborough River Basin Board of the Southwest Florida Water Management District, John B. Sargeant Conservation Park is located in Thonotosassa.

Meander through a wetland forest on the quarter-mile boardwalk. Stop by the overlook to see the Flint Creek meet the Hillsborough River. Enjoy the flowing river from the rest area at the end of the boardwalk. For more adventurous hikers, the 6.7-mile Old King Trail winds from the trailhead at John B. Sargeant Park to the Model Dairy trailhead at Hillsborough River State Park.

Launch your boat at the John B. Sargeant boat ramp. Immerse yourself in the river life as you paddle the Hillsborough River. The Hillsborough River State Canoe Trail will take you on a journey through hardwood trees where lilies bloom and birds sing. Seventeen Runs offers the opportunity to explore a hardwood swamp, its unique plants, and the wildlife who thrive there.

Be prepared to get some wonderful photographs since John B. Sargeant Conservation Park is on the western section of Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Picnic tables, covered pavilions, and restrooms are provided for your convenience. Bring your dog. Just be sure she/he is on a six-foot leash.

For more information: https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/recreat…/john-b-sargeant-park

Photo Credit: Aymee Laurain

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Green Springs Park

Green Springs Park

Green Springs Park covers 31 acres of pristine nature and has one of Florida’s few green sulfur springs.

Visitors can enjoy paved and natural trails, scenic overlooks, a playground, and picnic pavilions. There are also maintained public restrooms and plenty of parking. However, swimming or fishing is not allowed.

Green Springs Park has played an important role in Volusia County’s history, dating back to early native settlers. In 1841, a hotel was built at the end of the springs and is known as one of Florida’s first health spas. It later (1883) became a large estate for a wine importer and steamboat baron.

Green Springs Park offers nature trails and scenic overlooks. It is also a trailhead to the Spring-to-Spring Trail and the East Central Regional Rail Trail. The East Central Regional Rail Trail begins at Green Springs and travels 5.7 miles to State Road 415 in Osteen.

Location: 994 Enterprise/Osteen Road, Enterprise
Open daily: Sunrise to sunset

For more information, click here:
https://www.volusia.org/services/community-services/parks-recreation-and-culture/parks-and-trails/park-facilities-and-locations/ecological-nature-parks/green-spring-park.stml

Photo and Story by Melanie Lulue

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