7 Hidden Gems In Florida State Parks You Haven’t Seen Yet

7 Hidden Gems in Florida State Parks You Haven’t Seen Yet

Discover the Uncharted Beauty of the Sunshine State

Florida – the land of sun-kissed beaches, balmy breezes, and a dash of tropical charm. While most of us flock to the ever-popular theme parks and coastal hotspots, there’s a world of untamed beauty waiting to be unraveled in the state’s lesser-known parks. So, buckle up and join us on a thrilling adventure to uncover the 7 hidden gems in Florida state parks you haven’t seen yet!

1. Falling Waters State Park – Chipley

Get Directions:

• Nearest Airport: Panama City International Airport (ECP) – 45 miles (72 km), approximately 1-hour drive
• Nearest Train Station: Chipley Amtrak Station – 2 miles (3.2 km), approximately 5-minute drive
• Nearest Harbor: Panama City Marina – 45 miles (72 km), approximately 1-hour drive

Located in the panhandle of Florida, Falling Waters State Park is an idyllic retreat that will transport you to a bygone era. This 171-acre haven boasts stunning limestone cliffs, ancient pine trees, and the highest waterfall in Florida – a breathtaking 73-foot cascade that will leave you awestruck.

The park offers an array of facilities, including campsites with electricity, a swimming area, playground, picnic shelter, and a mini-golf course. Activities galore, from kayaking and canoeing to hiking and biking, will keep your adrenaline pumping.

Admission Fees:

• Adults: $5 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
• Children: Free (5 and under)

Accommodations:

• Falling Waters State Park Campground: campsites start at $10 per night
• Chipley Motel: rooms start at $60 per night



• Hampton Inn & Suites Chipley: rooms start at $90 per night

Reviews:
"Falling Waters State Park is an enchanting getaway that exceeded all our expectations! The waterfall is truly majestic, and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. A must-visit destination in Florida!" – Lisa M.

2. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park – Santa Rosa Beach

Get Directions:

• Nearest Airport: Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) – 25 miles (40 km), approximately 45-minute drive
• Nearest Train Station: None
• Nearest Harbor: Fort Walton Landing – 25 miles (40 km), approximately 45-minute drive

Perched on the Emerald Coast, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is an expansive 1,640-acre preserve that’s teeming with natural splendor. Stroll through the white sand dunes, pine flatwoods, and wetlands, where an array of wildlife, including the majestic bald eagle, calls home.

The park features 156 campsites with electricity, a swimming pool, biking trails, and kayak and paddleboard rentals. Adventure-seekers, rejoice! Take a guided hike or tour to discover the park’s secrets.

Admission Fees:

• Adults: $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
• Children: Free (5 and under)

Accommodations:

• Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground: campsites start at $10 per night
• The Pearl Hotel: rooms start at $200 per night
• WaterColor Resort: rooms start at $250 per night

Reviews:
"Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is a hidden gem on the Emerald Coast! The tranquility and vastness of the preserve will leave you spellbound. A perfect spot for families, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts alike." – James D.

3. Torreya State Park – Brqawnod

Get Directions:

• Nearest Airport: Panama City International Airport (ECP) – 100 miles (161 km), approximately 2-hour drive
• Nearest Train Station: Apalachicola Amtrak Station – 60 miles (97 km), approximately 1.5-hour drive
• Nearest Harbor: Apalachicola Marina – 60 miles (97 km), approximately 1.5-hour drive

Carved out of the rugged Apalachicola River valley, Torreya State Park boasts breathtaking vistas, sandy beaches, and a rich cultural heritage. Take a step back in time and explore the 19th-century Jason Gregory home, nestled within the park.

With campsites, picnic areas, and trails galore, this park is an adrenaline junkie’s paradise. River cruises, snorkeling, and hiking are just a few activities that await.

Admission Fees:

• Adults: $4 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
• Children: Free (5 and under)

Accommodations:

• Torreya State Park Campground: campsites start at $10 per night
• Apalachicola River Inn: rooms start at $80 per night
• Coombs House Inn: rooms start at $120 per night

Reviews:
"Torreya State Park is a magical destination that truly exceeded our expectations. The combination of stunning scenery, rich history, and exciting activities makes it an unmissable destination for any nature enthusiast." – Rachel S.

4. Florida Caverns State Park – Marianna

Get Directions:

• Nearest Airport: Panama City International Airport (ECP) – 100 miles (161 km), approximately 2-hour drive
• Nearest Train Station: Marianna Amtrak Station – 2 miles (3.2 km), approximately 5-minute drive
• Nearest Harbor: Panama City Marina – 100 miles (161 km), approximately 2-hour drive

Concealed beneath the Panhandle’s scenic landscape, Florida Caverns State Park is home to one of the state’s most incredible natural wonders: a massive cave system adorned with ancient passageways, speleothems, and shimmering stalactites.

Explore this amazing geological spectacle via a ranger-led tour, and then immerse yourself in outdoor adventures, including rafting, kayaking, and horseback riding.

Admission Fees:

• Adults: $5 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
• Children: Free (5 and under)

Accommodations:

• Florida Caverns State Park Campground: campsites start at $10 per night
• Super 8 Marianna: rooms start at $60 per night
• Comfort Inn Marianna: rooms start at $80 per night

Reviews:
"Exploring Florida Caverns State Park was like stumbling upon an otherworldly treasure! Our guide’s knowledge and passion made the experience all the more rewarding. An unmissable destination for cave enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts!" – Michael M.

5. Blue Spring State Park – Orange City

Get Directions:

• Nearest Airport: Orlando International Airport (MCO) – 60 miles (97 km), approximately 1-hour drive
• Nearest Train Station: DeLand Amtrak Station – 15 miles (24 km), approximately 30-minute drive
• Nearest Harbor: Sanford Marina – 40 miles (64 km), approximately 1-hour drive

Right in the heart of Central Florida, Blue Spring State Park is a breathtaking oasis, and a protected manatee habitat. Watch in awe as hundreds of these incredible creatures congregate in the crystal-clear waters of the spring.

Join a ranger-led tour to learn about the park’s diverse ecosystem, or go kayaking and paddleboarding to discover hidden spots. The park offers campsites, picnic areas, and well-groomed hiking trails.

Admission Fees:

• Adults: $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
• Children: Free (5 and under)

Accommodations:

• Blue Spring State Park Campground: campsites start at $20 per night
• Orange City Motel: rooms start at $40 per night
• Holiday Inn Express Orange City: rooms start at $90 per night

Reviews:
"Blue Spring State Park is a real-life wonderland! Manatees, spring waters, and sunshine – we’re in awe! A magical experience for our family. Don’t miss it!" – Susan K.

6. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park – Homosssa

Get Directions:

• Nearest Airport: Tampa International Airport (TPA) – 60 miles (97 km), approximately 1.5-hour drive
• Nearest Train Station: Inverness Amtrak Station – 24 miles (39 km), approximately 40-minute drive
• Nearest Harbor: Tampa Bay Marina – 60 miles (97 km), approximately 1.5-hour drive

This singular wildlife rehabilitation center doubles as an enchanting park, nestled within the cradle of the ancient cypress swamp. Attend an animal feeding, or stroll along the boardwalks and waterways, watching for the elegant white birds called egrets, and stealthy Florida black bears.

Activities, including guided tours, boat cruises, and picnic areas, abound. No wonder it’s become an essential Florida destination!

Admission Fees:

• Adults: $13 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
• Children: Free (5 and under)

Accommodations:

• Plantation on Crystal River, Ascend Hotel Collection: rooms start at $100 per night
• Homosassa Riverside Resort: rooms start at $90 per night
• Lagoon Deluxe Home, Homosassa: rooms start at $130 per night

Reviews:
"Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park was like stepping into a wildlife sanctuary! Witnessing animals in natural habitats, witnessing the rehabilitation efforts – it was profoundly rewarding. Would go back any day!" – Carolyn H.

7. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park – Micanopy

Get Directions:

• Nearest Airport: Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV) – 15 miles (24 km), approximately 25-minute drive
• Nearest Train Station: Gainesville Amtrak Station – 15 miles (24 km), approximately 25-minute drive
• Nearest Harbor: Port of Jacksonville – 100 miles (161 km), approximately 2-hour drive

Rise to the occasion in the little-known world of Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park! Observe unforgettable prairie landscapes and forests along the shores of Alachua Lake. Prepare to learn about ‘beholder natural wonders’ comprising mammals like gray wolves and the park’s signature black oxen. Imagine that, having historic and a little strange experience!

Embark on thrilling excursions via horse trails, biking routes, or kayaking. Ruling within: hiking on diverse boardwalk trails through lush prairies.

Admission Fees:

• Adults: $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
• Children: Free (5 and under)

Accommodations:

• Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground: campsites start at $20 per night
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Gainesville: rooms start at $120 per night
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Gainesville: rooms start at $80 per night

Reviews:
"If there is one experience of pure thrilling natural scenery in the U.S.A., this is the place. Even those who fear nature may truly appreciate life inside the vastness of Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park! Life-Changing experience doesn’t do it justice." – Michelle D.

In this hidden world of Florida State parks’ treasures, magic reigns supreme. Immerse yourself in these 7 phenomenal gems to indulge in delightful diversions. One trip and you’ll forever swap your holiday snaps with Florida paradise snapshots.

FAQs

1. What are some unique activities to do in Torreya State Park?
   Answer: Torreya State Park offers river cruises, hiking, snorkeling, and river swimming.

2. Can I rent equipment for outdoor activities within the state parks?
   Answer: Each of the parks offers equipment rentals, including bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes.

3. What is the best time to visit Falling Waters State Park to see the waterfall in full flow?
   Answer: The waterfall is in its prime from January to April.

4. Are pets allowed in the state parks?
   Answer: Yes, but they must be on a leash.

5. Can I make a campsite reservation online?
   Answer: Yes, most of the parks allow online reservations.

Now your excitement is high. Dive into an unusual tropical adventure that feels like pure fantasy.