The Sunshine State’s Hidden Gems: The Most Instagrammable Florida State Parks You Need to Visit
Hey, fellow nature lovers and aspiring influencers, are you ready to discover the most breathtakingly beautiful state parks in Florida that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy? From the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the lush forests of the Panhandle, Florida has an abundance of stunning state parks that are just begging to be explored. So, grab your cameras, your hiking boots, and your sense of adventure, and let’s embark on a journey to some of the most Instagrammable state parks in Florida.
1. Caladesi Island State Park
Located on the Gulf Coast, near Clearwater Beach, Caladesi Island State Park is a picturesque paradise that’s sure to capture the hearts of beach lovers and Instagram addicts alike. To get to this stunning state park, you can fly into Tampa International Airport (TPA) and then drive to the park’s launch area, where you can catch a ferry to the island.
- Getting There:
- By Air: Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- By Car: 1 hour 30 minutes from Tampa
- By Ferry: 20 minutes from the park’s launch area
- Facilities:
- 108 campsites with electric and water hookups
- 3 cabins
- Beach wheelchairs available for rent
- Activities:
- Beachcombing and shelling
- Swimming and kayaking
- Hiking and biking
- Price:
- Admission: $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
- Camping: $40-$60 per night
- Nearby Attractions:
- Clearwater Beach: 10 miles
- St. Petersburg Beach: 20 miles
- Public Facilities:
- The Clearwater Beach Marina Hotel: 10 miles
- The Sheraton Sand Key Resort: 12 miles
Visitors rave about the park’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and recharge. As one reviewer put it, "Caladesi Island State Park is a true gem! The beach is stunning, and the sunsets are absolutely breathtaking."
2. Falling Waters State Park
Located in Chipley, Florida, Falling Waters State Park is a nature lover’s paradise that boasts the highest waterfall in the state. To get to this stunning state park, you can fly into Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) and then drive to the park.
- Getting There:
- By Air: Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP)
- By Car: 1 hour 30 minutes from Panama City Beach
- By Train: 2 hours from Chipley Amtrak Station
- Facilities:
- 24 campsites with electric and water hookups
- 1 group cabin
- Hiking and biking trails
- Activities:
- Hiking and biking
- Swimming and kayaking
- Wildlife viewing
- Price:
- Admission: $5 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
- Camping: $20-$30 per night
- Nearby Attractions:
- Panama City Beach: 30 miles
- St. Andrews State Park: 40 miles
- Public Facilities:
- The Holiday Inn Express Chipley: 10 miles
- The La Quinta Inn & Suites Chipley: 12 miles
Visitors rave about the park’s stunning waterfall and scenic hiking trails, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to connect with nature. As one reviewer put it, "Falling Waters State Park is a true gem! The waterfall is breathtaking, and the hiking trails are challenging but rewarding."
3. Bahia Honda State Park
Located in Big Pine Key, Florida, Bahia Honda State Park is a tropical paradise that boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the state. To get to this stunning state park, you can fly into Key West International Airport (EYW) and then drive to the park.
- Getting There:
- By Air: Key West International Airport (EYW)
- By Car: 30 minutes from Key West
- By Bus: 1 hour from Key West Greyhound Station
- Facilities:
- 80 campsites with electric and water hookups
- 3 cabins
- Beach wheelchairs available for rent
- Activities:
- Beachcombing and shelling
- Swimming and kayaking
- Snorkeling and scuba diving
- Price:
- Admission: $8 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
- Camping: $40-$60 per night
- Nearby Attractions:
- Key West: 30 miles
- Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: 35 miles
- Public Facilities:
- The Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa: 20 miles
- The La Te Da Hotel: 25 miles
Visitors rave about the park’s stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to relax and unwind. As one reviewer put it, "Bahia Honda State Park is a true paradise! The beaches are stunning, and the snorkeling is incredible."
4. Myakka River State Park
Located in Sarasota, Florida, Myakka River State Park is a nature lover’s paradise that boasts some of the most beautiful wildlife in the state. To get to this stunning state park, you can fly into Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) and then drive to the park.
- Getting There:
- By Air: Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)
- By Car: 30 minutes from Sarasota
- By Bus: 1 hour from Sarasota Greyhound Station
- Facilities:
- 39 campsites with electric and water hookups
- 3 cabins
- Hiking and biking trails
- Activities:
- Hiking and biking
- Kayaking and canoeing
- Wildlife viewing
- Price:
- Admission: $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
- Camping: $20-$30 per night
- Nearby Attractions:
- Sarasota: 20 miles
- St. Armands Circle: 25 miles
- Public Facilities:
- The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota: 20 miles
- The Hyatt Regency Sarasota: 25 miles
Visitors rave about the park’s stunning wildlife and scenic hiking trails, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to connect with nature. As one reviewer put it, "Myakka River State Park is a true gem! The wildlife is incredible, and the hiking trails are challenging but rewarding."
Conclusion
Florida’s state parks are a treasure trove of natural beauty, from the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the lush forests of the Panhandle. Whether you’re a nature lover, a beach bum, or an aspiring influencer, there’s something for everyone in the Sunshine State. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the most Instagrammable state parks in Florida.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Florida’s state parks?
The best time to visit Florida’s state parks is from October to May, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
- Do I need to make a reservation for camping?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to make a reservation for camping, especially during peak season.
- Are there any restaurants or cafes near the state parks?
Yes, there are many restaurants and cafes near the state parks, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
- Can I bring my pet to the state parks?
Yes, pets are allowed in most state parks, but be sure to check with the park’s website or contact the park’s office for specific rules and regulations.
- Are the state parks wheelchair accessible?
Yes, many of the state parks have wheelchair-accessible facilities, including campsites, cabins, and hiking trails. However, be sure to check with the park’s website or contact the park’s office for specific information.
