State Parks in Florida

Florida has 175 state parks — the most in the US — covering about 800,000 acres. The system is consistently rated among the best in the country, ranging from Gulf Coast beaches to inland springs to subtropical forest.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park near Fort White is centered on the Ichetucknee River, fed by nine springs that produce 230 million gallons of crystal-clear 68°F water per day. Tubing the river is one of the most popular outdoor activities in North Florida — a lazy, beautiful float through spring-fed wilderness.

Myakka River State Park near Sarasota is one of Florida's oldest and largest state parks at 37,000 acres. The Myakka River winds through prairies, wetlands, and oak hammocks. Alligator viewing is exceptional — the lake can have dozens visible simultaneously. The park's elevated canopy walkway is one of the first in the US.

Wakulla Springs State Park near Tallahassee contains one of the world's largest and deepest freshwater springs. The spring boil is 185 feet deep and pumps millions of gallons daily into the Wakulla River. Manatees visit in winter; a glass-bottom boat tour reveals the underwater landscape of the spring.

Blue Spring State Park in Orange City is the primary winter refuge of the West Indian manatee. From November to March, hundreds of manatees congregate in the 72°F spring run to escape cold Gulf waters. It's the best place in the world to see manatees from land, for free.

Anastasia State Park near St. Augustine has 1,600 acres of barrier island habitat — ancient coquina rock formations, a 4-mile beach, a tidal creek, and the only campground within walking distance of historic St. Augustine.

Bahia Honda State Park in the Lower Keys has consistently been rated among the most beautiful beaches in the US. The turquoise waters, soft sand, and historic railroad bridge remnants make it one of Florida's most photographed parks.