Florida Top Ten State Parks

(1). John Pennekamp Coral Reef Sate Park

A large state park that covers 70 sq miles where visitors can partake in camping, canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and trips on glass bottom boats. There is plenty of marine life to observe such as the only living coral reef in the U.S. The species of marine life include: barracuda, snapper fish, parrot fish, and if you’re lucky you can even spot a wayward shark. The park hours are 8:00 am to sundown.

(2). Myakka River State Park

Located in Sarasota, FL includes many species of wildlife. There are many things for visitors to do such as kayaking, on the Myakka river that spreads out over 52 miles. Hikes on the treetops on the canopy walk can take in the marvelous view. Airboat rides are also available at this state park. It offers 57 sq miles and is one of the oldest and largest national parks in Florida. It is 6.00 dollars for 2-8 people or 4.00 for one person in a vehicle. The park is open from 8:00 am to sundown.

(3). Cayo Costa State park

A beautiful island that is only reached by boat or passenger ferry. There is no AC in the cabins, and electronics such as cell phones will not get reception. Located in Boca Grande, FL this park is home to both manatees and dolphins, which are both spotted very frequently by guests. This park is one of the best sea shell hunting destinations. It includes none miles of beaches and it includes 2,426 acres. This park is open 365 days a year and opens at 8:00am – sunset. To enter you must pay 2.00 per person.

(4). Grayton Beach State Park

Located in Santa Rosa Beach boast evergreen waters and white sandy beaches. It has 2000 acres which includes camping grounds, hiking trails, and swimming areas. This park is one of the only locations in the world where both salty and fresh water merge. This park also includes massive dunes and an abundance of wildlife. The opening time is 8:00 am and the closing time is sundown. The fees are 5.00 per vehicle. The activities include camping, hiking, swimming, observing the wildlife, kayaking, and canoeing.

(5). Anastasia State Park

This park is located in the historic city of St. Augustine, where Juan Ponce De Leon searched for the fountain of youth. You can become enriched in this city’s rich culture and partake in activities such as exploring the salt marsh and the hammocks. You will never be bored because there are many activities such as canoeing, swimming, fishing, and taking a hike on the pristine beaches. This park opens 8:00 and closes at sundown. The admission price is eight dollars per vehicle.

(6). Silver state Park

This park in Ocala FL, dozens of fresh water springs including the largest artisan spring. The non-native monkeys are a tourist favorite and there are many species such as mammals, birds, and reptiles. The park is open year round from 8:00 am to sundown and the admission is 6.00 per vehicle.
Number four: Collinear Seminole State Park in Naples, Florida is perfect place to camp because it includes many popular activities. The inhabitants of this island include species such as alligators, spoonbill birds, and ibis hero. There are luxury overnight cabins that are ready for rent. The park opens at eight in the morning and closes at sundown. The fees are 6.00 per car.

(7). Hillsborough River State Park

A beautiful place for Florida paddlers looking for a great place to kayak or canoe. It is home to the cypress swamps and pine Plat woods.
Number three: Bahia Honda State park is a gorgeous beach that features white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. The visitors can enjoy swimming in the massive ocean, building sandcastles, and just plain old relaxing. The park includes 500 acres that includes gift shopping, hiking trails, overnight camping and daily snorkeling trips. It opens at eight am in the morning and stays open until sunset. The largest beach is calusa and the largest is called sandspur beach.

(8). Billy’s Swamp safari

Located near the everglades this park offers visitors chance to get close and personal with large alligators and many species of reptilian. They offer many shows such as a mammal show and a reptile show which features rattlesnakes, cottonmouths, baby alligators, and various types of lizards. It also includes an airboat tour where you are taken to dine with the gators. This park is a 2000 acre Seminole Indian reserve and its park hours are 9:00 am -6:00am. The most popular attraction at this park is the eco airboat ride but there are also exhibits and ecobuggy rides. The admission price is 49.95 for adults and 35.95 for children.

(9). Wekiwa Spring State park

Located in Apokka this marvelous river is home to many species of birds, otters, and fish. There are thirteen miles of trails were you can partake in a breathtaking hike, as you take in all the natural beauty. The river is clear and many people enjoy kayaking in the pristine waters. Also canoeing and cycling are also very popular activities in Wekia spring state park. There is an area where private cabins are ready to be rented out overnight. The parks hours are from 8:00am through sunset and the fees are 4.00 per one single person car and 6.00 per multi person vehicle. You must arrive as early as possible to be able to come to this park.