"Florida’s Finest: 5 State Parks Perfect for Camping Adventures"
Ah, the great outdoors – there’s no better way to reconnect with Mother Nature than spending a night or two under the stars. If you’re itching for a camping adventure, look no further than the Sunshine State. Florida boasts some of the most stunning state parks in the country, offering a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore, relax, and have a blast. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at five Florida state parks perfect for camping adventures, including their facilities, activities, and everything you need to know to plan your trip.
1. Bahia Honda State Park
"Keys, here we come!" If you’re flying in, the nearest airport is Key West International Airport (EYW), about 12 miles from the park. From there, take a taxi or rent a car and head east on US-1 South. Alternatively, you can drive from Miami via US-1 South ( approx. 185 miles, 3 hours).
Located on the stunning island of Bahia Honda, this 524-acre park is a tropical paradise. The moment you step foot on the park’s pristine beaches, you’ll be hooked. The crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and scenic shoreline make for a beach lover’s haven. But that’s not all – Bahia Honda State Park is also renowned for its:
- Facilities: 80 campsites with electric and water hookups, 3 cabins, and a group campsite. Don’t forget the park’s Bahia Honda Beach Restaurant, serving up fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired cuisine!
- Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, beachcombing, birdwatching, and hiking (the 3.5-mile Silver Palm Trail is a must-do!)
- Price: Camping fees range from $36 to $60 per night, depending on the time of year and type of campsite.
Looking for nearby accommodations? Consider the laid-back Islander Resort (12.6 miles from the park) or the Hawks Cay Resort (23.4 miles from the park), both offering luxurious rooms and top-notch amenities.
Reviews:
"Bahia Honda State Park is truly a gem! We spent three nights camping and two days snorkeling – the marine life is simply incredible. We can’t wait to come back!" (Emily W.)
Map: Bahia Honda State Park is located at 36850 Overseas Highway, Bahia Honda Key, FL 33043.
Directions:
- From Key West International Airport: Head east on US-1 South (12 miles)
- From Miami International Airport: Drive south on US-1 South (185 miles, approx. 3 hours)
- By Taxi: Approximately $40 from Key West International Airport
- By Bus: Take the Lower Keys Shuttle from Key West International Airport (approximately 45 minutes, $2)
2. Blue Spring State Park
Located about 25 miles west of Deltona, Florida, Blue Spring State Park is an absolute must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. To get here, fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO) and take a taxi or rent a car, heading west on Interstate 4 (approximately 60 miles, 45 minutes).
Facilities: 72 campsites with electric and water hookups, as well as a group campsite. The park also features a concession stand, picnic areas, and a playground for the little ones.
Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, hiking (the 4.5-mile Pine Island Trail is a real treat!), and wildlife viewing – keep an eye out for manatees and birds!
Price: Camping fees range from $24 to $30 per night, depending on the time of year and type of campsite.
Looking for nearby accommodations? Check out the Holiday Inn Express (10 miles from the park) or the Hampton Inn (13 miles from the park), both offering comfortable rooms and top-notch amenities.
Reviews:
"Blue Spring State Park is an incredible place! We saw so many manatees, birds, and even a few gators. The kids loved the playground and swimming in the spring. We’ll definitely be back!" (Sarah G.)
Map: Blue Spring State Park is located at 2100 W. French Ave., Orange City, FL 32763.
Directions:
- From Orlando International Airport: Head west on Interstate 4 (60 miles, 45 minutes)
- By Taxi: Approximately $60 from Orlando International Airport
- By Bus: Take the SunRail from Orlando International Airport (approximately 1 hour, $3)
3. Falling Waters State Park
Located in Chipley, Florida, Falling Waters State Park is a 171-acre park that’s home to the state’s highest waterfall (a whopping 73 feet tall!). To get here, fly into Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) and take a taxi or rent a car, heading north on State Road 77 (approximately 90 miles, 1.5 hours).
Facilities: 24 campsites with electric and water hookups, as well as a group campsite. The park also features a concession stand, picnic areas, and a playground.
Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, hiking (the 1.5-mile Falling Waters Trail is a real treat!), and wildlife viewing – keep an eye out for deer, wild turkey, and birds!
Price: Camping fees range from $20 to $30 per night, depending on the time of year and type of campsite.
Looking for nearby accommodations? Check out the Holiday Inn Express (10 miles from the park) or the Comfort Inn (12 miles from the park), both offering comfortable rooms and top-notch amenities.
Reviews:
"Falling Waters State Park is an absolute must-see! We hiked the Falling Waters Trail and saw some incredible wildlife. The kids loved the playground and swimming in the lake. We’ll be back for sure!" (Chris H.)
Map: Falling Waters State Park is located at 1130 State Park Road, Chipley, FL 32428.
Directions:
- From Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport: Head north on State Road 77 (90 miles, 1.5 hours)
- By Taxi: Approximately $100 from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport
- By Bus: Take the Bay County Public Transportation bus from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (approximately 2 hours, $5)
4. Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area
Located in Flagler Beach, Florida, Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area is a 144-acre park that’s perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. To get here, fly into Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) and take a taxi or rent a car, heading north on State Road A1A (approximately 30 miles, 45 minutes).
Facilities: 34 campsites with electric and water hookups, as well as a group campsite. The park also features a concession stand, picnic areas, and a playground.
Activities: Swimming, surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing – keep an eye out for sea turtles and dolphins!
Price: Camping fees range from $28 to $36 per night, depending on the time of year and type of campsite.
Looking for nearby accommodations? Check out the Hammock Beach Resort (2 miles from the park) or the Golden Magnolia Resort (3 miles from the park), both offering luxurious rooms and top-notch amenities.
Reviews:
"Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area is an incredible beach destination! We spent the day surfing and swimming, and watched the sunset over the ocean. The kids loved the playground and beachcombing for shells. We’ll be back for sure!" (Liz M.)
Map: Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area is located at 3100 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach, FL 32136.
Directions:
- From Daytona Beach International Airport: Head north on State Road A1A (30 miles, 45 minutes)
- By Taxi: Approximately $40 from Daytona Beach International Airport
- By Bus: Take the SunRail from Daytona Beach International Airport (approximately 45 minutes, $3)
5. Oleta River State Park
Located in North Miami Beach, Florida, Oleta River State Park is a 1,043-acre park that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. To get here, fly into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and take a taxi or rent a car, heading south on Interstate 95 (approximately 20 miles, 30 minutes).
Facilities: 100 campsites with electric and water hookups, as well as a group campsite. The park also features a concession stand, picnic areas, and a playground.
Activities: Swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, hiking (the 15-mile Oleta River Trail is a real treat!), and wildlife viewing – keep an eye out for alligators, birds, and turtles!
Price: Camping fees range from $24 to $30 per night, depending on the time of year and type of campsite.
Looking for nearby accommodations? Check out the Hyatt Regency (5 miles from the park) or the Embassy Suites (7 miles from the park), both offering luxurious rooms and top-notch amenities.
Reviews:
"Oleta River State Park is an absolute gem! We spent the day kayaking and hiking, and saw some incredible wildlife. The kids loved the playground and swimming in the lake. We’ll be back for sure!" (Jessica W.)
Map: Oleta River State Park is located at 3400 NE 163rd St., North Miami Beach, FL 33160.
Directions:
- From Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport: Head south on Interstate 95 (20 miles, 30 minutes)
- By Taxi: Approximately $30 from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport
- By Bus: Take the Broward County Transit bus from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (approximately 45 minutes, $2)
Conclusion
There you have it – five Florida state parks perfect for camping adventures. From the Keys to the Panhandle, each park offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a beach lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, these parks have something for everyone. So pack up your tent, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for the ultimate camping adventure in the Sunshine State!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the best way to get to these state parks?
- The best way to get to these state parks is by flying into the nearest airport and then taking a taxi or renting a car. Each park has its own unique location and transportation options, so be sure to check the park’s website or contact them directly for more information.
- What facilities do these state parks offer?
- Each park offers a range of facilities, including campsites with electric and water hookups, concession stands, picnic areas, playgrounds, and more. Be sure to check the park’s website or contact them directly for more information on their facilities.
- What activities can I do at these state parks?
- From swimming and snorkeling to kayaking and hiking, each park offers a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Be sure to check the park’s website or contact them directly for more information on their activities.
- How much does it cost to camp at these state parks?
- Camping fees range from $20 to $60 per night, depending on the time of year and type of campsite. Be sure to check the park’s website or contact them directly for more information on their camping fees.
- What are the nearest accommodations to these state parks?
- Each park has its own unique location and nearby accommodations. Be sure to check the park’s website or contact them directly for more information on nearby hotels, resorts, and other accommodations.
By following these tips and planning ahead, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable camping adventure in Florida’s state parks. Happy camping!
