parksinflorida

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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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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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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Magnolia Park

Magnolia Park, located on the eastern shore of Lake Apopka, is an outdoor space with something for everyone. There is a playground for the kids, volleyball and basketball courts, a baseball field, a boat ramp, and picnic tables where you can enjoy your meal under ancient live oaks. Spend a few nights in your tent or RV at one of 18 campsites. Be sure to stop by the Ecotourism Center to learn about the history of Lake Apopka, the ongoing restoration work, and the Lake Apopka Loop Trail.
Wildlife peacefully coexists with human visitors at Magnolia Park. Look for ducks, wading birds, dragonflies, and alligators in the pond at the center of the park. A colorful array of beautiful native flowers bloom to the delight of butterflies and bees. Sandhill cranes, osprey, and a variety of birds and wildlife visit often. A flock of Peacocks calls Magnolia Park home.
For more information about Magnolia Park: https://www.orangecountyfl.net/CultureParks/Parks.aspx…
Photo credit: Dan Kon ma
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Lake Monroe Wayside

Lake Monroe Wayside
A little bit of history. A little bit of nature. Three floating boat docks on beautiful Lake Monroe. Sandwiched between Hwy 17-92 and a railroad on one side and I-4 on the other lies the 3.5 acre Lake Monroe Wayside. The 3.5 acre park in Sanford is home to the first electrically operated bridge in Florida. Saunter along the Lake Monroe Bridge which has been preserved as a fishing pier and offers alluring views of the lake and the park. Launch your boat from one of the docks and enjoy the sights and sounds on the 9,406-acre Lake Monroe.
Look for wading birds and water birds near the lake. Songbirds can be heard singing over the sounds of traffic and trains. Trees including cypress and the bridge offer perfect perches for a variety of birds. Bring a snack or your lunch and picnic under one of the pavilions while marveling at the wildlife who make their homes in this little piece of nature.
Ph0to Credit: Dan Kon
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Torreya State Park

Torreya State Park
Established in 1930 by the Civilian Conservation Corp., Torreya State Park is best known for its highly endangered and endemic Torreya tree. However, the Torreya tree isn’t the only rare species that call this park home. Other rare species found here include Florida yew, ash magnolia, pyramid magnolia, fireback crayfish, and Apalachicola dusky salamanders.
Since 2001 the park has been working on restoring an old sand pine plantation to a healthy and thriving longleaf pine and wiregrass ecosystem. Take a tour of the Gregory House, a relic of the pre-Civil War era.
Go hiking on Torreya State Park’s 16 miles of challenging trails through the steep ravines. Bring your small craft, launch it at the boat ramp, and paddle on the gorgeous Apalachicola River. Bring your camera and photograph the numerous birds and wildlife because Torreya State Park is recognized as a Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Take some time to simply relax and enjoy the serene overlook of the river. Picnic areas with grills and tables provide the perfect spot for your outdoor meal. There is a playground for the kids. Service animals are welcome.
Stay for a night or more to explore this beautiful park. Set up camp at the top of the “mountain” overlooking the Apalachicola River at one of the Rock Bluff Primitive Campsites. Make a reservation for the cracker cabin, yurt, or a campsite with hookups for your RV.
The park is located in the panhandle in Bristol. Whether you spend a day or a week, Torreya State Park is a wonderfully unique park to explore and discover.
Photo Credit: Aymee Laurain
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Palm Island Park

Palm Island Park

Just south of downtown Mt Dora lies Palm Island Park, an 8-acre natural preservation area waiting to be explored. The boardwalk is 1/3-mile long and swings out over Lake Dora. Saunter along as you watch for wading birds, turtles, and alligators along the lake’s edge.

Continue your stroll on the easy path through ancient oaks, huge cypress trees, and tall cabbage palms. Listen for songbirds, look for wildflowers in bloom, and discover the changes in the ecosystem as you walk thru the marsh toward drier land. The 1-mile loop over the boardwalk and on the footpath allows you to experience natural Florida at its finest.

Palm Island Park is open from 7 am to sunset. Bring your lunch and enjoy yourself at one of the picnic areas. Leashed pets are welcome.

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Fred Howard Park

Fred Howard Park

There are 155 acres on the Gulf of Mexico in Tarpon Springs where you can revel in the beauty of white sandy beaches and breathtaking sunsets. Named for the former Mayor of Tarpon Springs, who set aside the property for the enjoyment of residents in 1966, Fred Howard Park delights nearly 2 million residents and visitors every year!

Explore pine flatwoods, sandhills, wetlands, mangrove estuaries, seagrass beds, and coastal scrub. Discover the wildlife who make their homes there. Watch for eagles, osprey, butterflies, gopher tortoises, fox squirrels, manatees, and dolphins.

Stop along the mile-long causeway to sunbathe, then cool off with a quick dip in the Gulf. Paddle your kayak or canoe in the Gulf or experience the thrill of windsurfing. Bring your lunch to enjoy in one of 9 picnic shelters and be sure to stop by the playground for a nostalgic ride on the swings.

For more information and a map of the park click here:

https://pinellas.gov/parks/fred-howard-park/

Photo Credit: Marc Goldberg

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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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Wekiwa Springs State Park

Wekiwa Springs State Park, located in Orange County, is just waiting to be explored. Discover a longleaf pine forest and sandhill uplands. Hammocks at the river’s edge are thick and tropical-like. Wildflowers of multiple colors spring up at all times during the year to greet you. The park is home to an abundance of wildlife from iconic Florida black bears to the tiniest spiders who weave their intricate webs along the trails.

Wekiwa Springs State Park is best known for its crystal clear springs which are a refreshing 72* all year long. Swimming and snorkeling are favorite pastimes. A swim lift is available for those who have difficulty with the steps leading to the springs.

After enjoying a dip in the cool springs, cook an outdoor meal on one of the grills. Eat at a picnic table nearby or spread your blanket on the ground overlooking the springs. There is a playground for the kids, and a volleyball court and horseshoe pit for friends and family to enjoy.

If the river is calling you, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are available to rent. Paddle the Wekiva river where you will see an abundance of wildlife including alligators and turtles basking in the sun and osprey high in the treetops.

Explore the trails of Wekiwa Springs State Park on foot, horseback, or bike. Trails range in length from 8/10 of a mile to 13.5 miles. The Tram Bed Horse Trail is perfect for horseback riding. Pedal along the bike trail or discover the many birds found along the Great Florida Birding & Wildlife Trail within the park.

Stargaze at one of the 60 spacious campsites in Sandhill habitat. Camp with your horses at Big Fork or experience primitive camping at Camp Cozy or Big Fork. A concession is available for your convenience should you forget to pack something.

Make your day at the park a family affair. Bring your dog! Just be sure he or she is on a 6-foot leash.

Plan your adventure today! Explore and discover Wekiwa Springs State Park! Wekiwa Springs State Park is located at 1800 Wekiwa Cir. Apopka FL 32712
Plan your trip here: http://www.wekiwaspringsstatepark.com/plan.html
Note- the park reaches capacity early in the day during the summer. It is best to arrive when the park opens.

Photo credit: Andy Waldo images captured during several hikes throughout the year.

 

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