11 Best National Parks in Florida to Visit in 2024
Florida is most commonly thought of as a beach vacation destination. So, you may be asking yourself, “What national parks are in Florida?” Lucky for you, we’ve compiled a list of all the national parks in Florida that you won’t want to miss!
We love visiting the national parks throughout the country because of how beautiful they are and the great opportunity they give us to explore the outdoors.
Three National Parks in Florida
1. Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park is one of the most unique parks in all of the United States. Given that 95 percent of the park lies underwater, there are so many mysteries to discover below the surface.
Located off the coast of Homestead, FL, the Homestead National Parks Trolley is the main way to visit the park if you aren’t driving there on your own. Once you’re there, the most popular way to explore the sights and sounds is by boat. It’s a great way to explore the different ecosystems and enjoy water activities during your visit.
Things To Do
Snorkel & Scuba Dive
Biscayne National Park is home to the third largest off-shore coral reefs. It should come as no surprise that this park is one of the top scuba diving destinations in the United States. Snorkelers and scuba divers travel from all over the world to explore the impressive reef system.
Canoe & Kayak
Jones Lagoon and Hurricane Creek are two of our favorite places to explore in Biscayne National Park. Experienced paddlers might enjoy the eight-mile (one-way) paddle out to Elliott or Boca Chita Key. Mowry Canal Paddle is an easier route that offers excellent mangrove views and manatee sightings in the cooler months.
Hike
Florida’s national parks aren’t commonly known for their trails, but there are a handful of beautiful hikes to explore here. Boca Chita Key Trail, Adams Key Loop Trail, Elliott Key Loop Trail, Convoy (Jetty) Trail, and Spite Trail are the most common routes to check out.
Tours
The Biscayne National Park Institute offers a variety of tours and ways to experience the park while learning about the ecosystem and history at the same time. Some of the adventures include snorkel and scuba trips, paddling tours, and informative heritage cruises.
While we were in Biscayne National Park, we went on the heritage cruise and had a great time. By boat, we got to explore the different keys, and then we got a few hours to explore one of the keys. We visited the lighthouse and relaxed on the beautiful beach.
Where to Stay
Hilton Garden Inn Homestead
⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍Location: 2601 NE 9th Court, Homestead, FL | 🏩 View on Expedia
Hilton Garden Inn Homestead is a great place to stay for those interested in visiting national parks in South Florida. The rooms are spacious and moderately priced.
The property has a fantastic outdoor pool. It’s the perfect place for kids to play while parents soak up some rays.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Hilton Garden Inn Homestead
2. Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park consists of a cluster of secluded islands about 70 miles to the west of Key West. Water transportation via a ferry or tour cruise is required to reach this park.
One of our favorite national parks in the Florida Keys, this spot is known for its beautiful beach and remarkable coral reef. It’s also the home of Fort Jefferson.
Things To Do
Snorkel
Dry Tortugas is one of the best national parks in Florida for snorkeling. The water is crystal clear, which makes exploring the surrounding reef a fantastic experience. Kids will love the many opportunities to see ocean life, like dolphins and sea turtles too!
Explore Fort Jefferson
Fort Jefferson was built in the early 19th Century to protect the United State’s shipping gateway to the Gulf of Mexico. The fort was meant to limit interruptions from pirates and privateers.
The fort was never completed, and the passage of time and the influence of the elements have weathered the structure. The national park makes many efforts to keep the fort restored so that travelers can enjoy this unique piece of U.S. history.
Camp & Stargaze
The only area of Dry Tortugas equipped for camping is Garden Key, the same area where Fort Jefferson is located.
Both individual and group campsites are available here. Camping here is very primitive. Campers are responsible for bringing all needed supplies and carrying out all trash upon departure. Sites include a picnic table and elevated grills for charcoal cooking. Fires are only permitted for cooking purposes.
Composting toilets are located in the campground area but are closed from 10 am – 3 pm daily. There are no showers, electric hook-ups, or cellular service.
Away from the lights and pollution of the cities, national parks in the Florida Keys offer a fantastic setting for star gazing. A staggering sky full of stars at Dry Tortugas is a memory your family won’t soon forget!
Tours
Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars ⎸ 🕑 Tour Length: 10 hours ⎸ Check Rates & Availability
The Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West tour carries visitors from Key West out to Dry Tortugas for a day spent at the park. Half of the fun of this tour is the unique experience of traveling on a catamaran.
The views on this boat ride across the tropic seas are spectacular. Guests will catch glimpses of Boca Grande Key, the Marquesas Keys, and the Rebecca Shoal Channel along the way. Breakfast and lunch aboard the boat are included, as is snorkeling equipment to enjoy the park’s waters.
▶️ BOOK Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West
Where to Stay
Havana Cabana at Key West
⭐️ Rating 8.6/10 | 📍Location: 3420 N. Roosevelt Blvd Key West, FL | 🏩 View on Expedia
Given that Dry Tortugas is located in the middle of the ocean, the nearest hotel accommodations are in Key West. Havana Cabana at Key West is a clean and comfortable place to stay. The property includes a gorgeous outdoor pool, a fun tiki bar, and an on-site restaurant!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Havana Cabana at Key West
3. Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is an enormous park that offers three different convenient entrances, depending on where you are in the state. The main entrance is in Homestead, making it a convenient place to visit after exploring Biscayne National Park. The Shark Valley entrance is in Miami, and the Gulf Coast entrance is located in Everglades City.
Everglades National Park is one of the best national parks in Florida for viewing endangered species. Manatees, American crocodiles, and even Florida panthers call this park home. With lots of paths to bike and hike, along with waterway tours, this is one of the most happening Florida national parks.
The Everglades is one of our favorite places to visit in Florida in December. The cooler temperatures make for a much more comfortable and relaxed park experience.
Things To Do
Bike
For cycling enthusiasts, Shark Valley, Snake Bight Trail, and the Long Pine Key Nature Trail are the best places to explore Everglades National Park on two wheels!
Hike & Slough Slog
The Homestead entrance offers the most hiking opportunities. Pine Island Trails and Flamingo Trails offer short interpretive trails for the whole family to enjoy.
Otter Cave Hammock and Bobcat Boardwalk are fun walking trails to explore when visiting the Shark Valley portion of the park. Sandfly Island Hiking Trail is the spot to check out when visiting the Gulf Coast portion of the park.
For committed hikers that don’t mind veering off dryland, slough slogging is another fun way to experience the true nature of Everglades National Park.
Ranger-led slough slogs are offered in different areas throughout the park. Contact Everglades National Park to reserve a spot on one of these adventures!
Bird Watch
Over 300 species of birds are said to fly over and roam throughout the park. Spotting rare gems like Blue Herons and Roseate Spoonbills makes birdwatching a low-impact and exciting activity to enjoy in the park.
Tours
Everglades Airboat Safari
⭐️ Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length: 5 hours | Check Rates & Availability
The Everglades Airboat Safari tour provides transport from Miami Beach to Everglades National Park and admittance to the park. A highlight of this tour is definitely the thrilling and buzzing journey to and through Everglades aboard the airboat.
This speedy and fun tour takes visitors through mangrove tunnels and marshlands. You’ll likely spot some classic FLA national parks wildlife like alligators, birds, and turtles during the tour too, plus, many other wild animals call this area home!
▶️ BOOK Everglades Airboat Safari
Small Group Boat, Kayak, and Walking Guided Eco Tour in Everglades National Park
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length: 3 hours and 30 minutes | Check Rates & Availability
Small Group Boat, Kayak, and Walking Guided Eco Tour offers one of the best and most well-rounded experiences of Everglades National Park. This tour takes travelers through the park on foot, hiking along the beach and dunes.
Next, you will go in a kayak to explore Barrier Island Beach. Finally, you will set out on a boat for a wildlife adventure, out to spot dolphins, eagles, manatees, and sea turtles, while also exploring some of the most remote parts of the park.
▶️ BOOK Small Group Boat, Kayak and Walking Guided Eco Tour
Where to Stay
Everglades Adventures Hotel Suites by Ivey House
⭐️ Rating 9.2/10 | 📍Location: 107 Camellia St E, Everglades City, FL | 🏩 View on Expedia
Everglades Adventures Hotel Suites by Ivey House is a fantastic place to stay for families traveling to Everglades National Park’s Gulf Coast entrance. Their rooms include a full kitchen boasting a full-size refrigerator and microwave.
It’s so convenient to have all the kitchen basics! Cribs are available for an extra charge, and guest services can help travelers get set up with tours.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Everglades Adventures Hotel Suites by Ivey House
Other National Preserves, Monuments, and Seashores in Florida
4. Big Cypress National Preserve
At the heart of Big Cypress National Preserve is a freshwater swamp. This swamp helps support the thriving ecosystems in Everglades National Park, the preserve’s neighbor, as they are both located in Everglades City.
Everything is so green in this swampy landscape. Big Cypress is an excellent stop for anyone interested in plant science as it plays home to both tropic and temperate plant species.
Things To Do
Hike
Hike on designated trails or explore the unmarked territory. It’s your call! Keep in mind that hiking conditions will vary depending on the season. The dry season is favorable over the wet season, as some trails may be submerged.
Kirby Storter Roadside Park Boardwalk and Gator Hook Trail are some of the most fun hikes to explore with the family in the Big Cypress National Preserve.
Canoe or Kayak
Lefthand Turner River Paddling Trail and Sandfly Island Loop Paddling Trail offer easy to moderate routes, so these are great choices for beginner paddlers. Turner River Paddling Trail, Halfway Creek, and Halfway Creek Loop are slightly more challenging and considered solidly moderate.
Take a Scenic Drive
For those who may be mobility-challenged or would rather take in the sights from afar, there is a 43-mile scenic drive throughout the park. It’s a beautiful route that will showcase some of the best views the park has to offer.
Stargaze
Big Cypress National Preserve holds the distinction of being an International Dark Sky Site. Away from the harsh lights and pollution of the city, visitors to Big Cypress will be able to see the wonders of the Milky Way, even without the use of a telescope.
Try to catch one of the ranger-led astronomy programs that occasionally take place here. Visitors get to walk through the park late at night while learning about constellations and getting to view the night sky with a telescope.
Tours
Ranger-Led Wet-Walks
From November – March, park rangers will lead swamp explorations and other tours throughout the park at various times. Contact Big Cypress National Preserve to get further details during your trip window.
Big Cypress National Preserve Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length: 2-3 hours | Check Rates & Availability
The Big Cypress National Preserve Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour is an excellent counterpart for those who choose to explore the park via a scenic drive. Start the audio tour as you begin your journey through the park, and let it guide your adventure.
While taking in the sights, you will get unique insights regarding the lush wetlands, the fragility of the ecosystem, and even the impact of the Seminole Tribe on the preserve’s history.
▶️ BOOK Big Cypress National Preserve Self Guided Driving Audio Tour
Where to Stay
Everglades City Motel
⭐️ Rating 8.4/10 | 📍Location: 309 Collier Ave, Everglades City, FL | 🏩 View on Expedia
Everglades City Motel is a simple yet clean and fun place to stay when exploring Big Cypress National Preserve. The motel provides free wifi, and the room is equipped with a microwave and refrigerator, which is helpful for those who wish to prepare meals in their room.
Cribs and rollaway beds are available for an extra fee.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Everglades City Motel
Canaveral National Seashore is recognized as the longest stretch of undeveloped Atlantic coastline in Florida and home to some of the most adorable sea turtles! Near New Smyrna, this pristine and untouched space features dune, hammock, and lagoon habitats.
Things To Do
Visit Playalinda and Apollo Beaches
Canaveral National Seashore has two beaches. Playalinda is located at the southern end of the park and is the more popular beach, mainly because it offers more parking. Apollo Beach is on the northern end of the park.
Both locations offer the beautiful coastlines we’ve all come to expect in Florida. The perfect spot for a beach day, you can soak up the sun, play in the water and build sand castles with the little ones!
Be sure to bring a beach chair and a kite to enjoy at the beach!
Fish
Mosquito Lagoon has become famous as a fantastic place to fly fish for red drums. Snook and sheepshead are also commonly found in the lagoon. Ocean surf fishing is also a common pastime at the seashore.
It’s a fun way to enjoy the beach with your family while fishing for Florida Pompano, Whiting, and Voracious Bluefish.
Canoe or Kayak
Paddling is a popular activity at Canaveral National Seashore. Canoes and kayaks can be rented from the Visitor Center. Paddling through the picturesque Mosquito Lagoon is a fun way to enjoy the Florida sun and the majesty of nature.
Tours
The park service offers paddling tours of Mosquito Lagoon a few times a month during the winter and spring seasons. Contact Canaveral National Seashore for a more specific schedule.
Where to Stay
The Wayward Traveler’s Inn
⭐️ Rating 9.4/10 | 📍Location: 2398 N Singleton Ave, Mims, FL | 🏩 View on Expedia
The Wayward Traveler’s Inn is a quaint B&B located near Canaveral National Seashore. The home is charming, the owners are welcoming, and they offer a scrumptious breakfast daily!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at The Wayward Traveler’s Inn
6. Castillo de San Marcos (National Monument)
Castillo de San Marcos is one of our favorite Florida National Monuments to visit. Built by the Spanish in St. Augustine as a protective measure for Florida and the Atlantic trade route in the 1600s, there is so much history and culture to enjoy at this site.
Park rangers and volunteers are often dressed in period costumes, eager to interact with visitors and educate them about the fort. We had so much fun touring this fort during our last visit to St. Augustine.
Things To Do
Explore the Monument
The monument itself is a two-story building. Visitors can explore the lower level to see the ancient sleeping quarters and prison. The upper level of the fort offers fantastic views of Matanzas Bay.
Weapons Demonstration
Musket and Cannon demonstrations take place on the upper level of the fort a few times a day. Kids will enjoy seeing ancient weapons and learning how they work.
Tours
There are no formal tours at this location. The National Park Service does offer a self-guided walking tour outline on its website.
Your kids can earn a junior ranger badge here, though. We earned our badges when we visited the fort.
Where to Stay
Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront
⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍Location: 32 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL | 🏩 View on Expedia
Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront is a really fun place to stay while exploring the St. Augustine area. The hotel is clean, comfortable, and colorful, really everything you could wish for on a Floridian vacation!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront
7. De Soto (National Memorial)
De Soto National Memorial is located near Bradenton, about 30 minutes north of Sarasota. This national memorial commemorates Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto’s supposed landing point in what was known as La Florida in 1539.
Things To Do
Explore The Nature Trail
De Soto’s Nature Trail offers a beautiful walk through the park’s landscape. The path guides visitors through a mangrove forest and provides educational plaques along the way, detailing the history of the De Soto expedition.
Visit De Soto Point Beach and Cove Beach
De Soto Point Beach is a lovely beach area with active waters, influenced by the nearby Manatee River and Tampa Bay. For visitors more interested in smooth waters, consider visiting The Cove Beach.
Swimming is permitted, but be aware that these beaches do not have lifeguards. Bring those boogie boards and enjoy this beautiful part of the Florida coast.
Bird Watch
De Soto is a prime spot to witness the seasonal migration of many species of birds. If you visit during the fall or spring, you never know what type of birds you might see!
Tours
Ranger-Led Kayak Tours
Ranger-led kayak tours are run at De Soto each year from June to October. This is a fun activity for families with older children, as all participants must be at least seven years old. The tour is typically an hour and a half, and all equipment and lifejackets are provided.
Where to Stay
Residence Inn by Marriott St. Petersburg Tierra Verde
⭐️ Rating 9.4/10 | 📍Location: 214 Madonna Blvd, Tierra Verde, FL | 🏩 View on Expedia
Residence Inn by Marriott St. Petersburg Tierra Verde is an upscale, three-star hotel. The studios here are like a home away from home, equipped with comfortable sleeping spaces as well as a full kitchenette. The property also features a restaurant and a stunning outdoor pool.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Residence Inn by Marriott St. Petersburg Tierra Verde
8. Fort Caroline (National Memorial)
Fort Caroline is located in Jacksonville at a site that was once a French colony during the 16th century. The memorial pays homage to the colony by providing historical education (sometimes through reenactments) about this site to today’s generation and those to come.
Things To Do
Take a Walk
Fort Caroline is a beautiful park area with many nature trails. There are open, garden-like areas as well as forest areas to wander through. This is a fun place to let the kids stretch their legs and enjoy a nice walk in nature.
Check Out St. John’s River
There are a few different waterfronts to enjoy at Fort Caroline, but St. John’s River is quite a sight! Visitors may even catch glimpses of dolphins here every now and again.
Tours
There are no formal tours at this location. Visitors are welcome and encouraged to explore on their own.
Where to Stay
Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville I-295/East Beltway
⭐️ Rating 8.8/10 | 📍Location: 9815 Lantern Street, Jacksonville, FL | 🏩 View on Expedia
Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville I-295/East Beltway is a one-stop-shop place to stay. With a bar, coffee shop, and restaurant all on-site, it’s a dream come true. Staying rooms here feature king or queen-size beds along with sofa beds in select rooms.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville I-295/East Beltway
9. Fort Matanzas (National Monument)
Fort Matanzas is located on Rattlesnake Island in St. Augustine. The fort itself is more than 280 years old.
Historically, the Matanzas River was often used as a secret way into St. Augustine by British and French travelers; this frustrated Spaniards, who had claimed Florida as their own. The fort was built at the river’s inlet to allow the Spanish to keep others from sneaking in.
Things To Do
Take The Ferry
Visitors to the fort should first visit the visitors center to obtain free tickets for a ferry boat ride to Rattlesnake Island. The short boat ride adds a fun flair to the monument’s adventure.
Explore The Fort
Walking through the fort is like walking through time. It’s an interesting experience to see such a historic structure up close and personal. It’s a really neat experience to walk through the sleeping quarters and climb up to the observation deck, envisioning Spanish soldiers doing the same thing so many years ago.
Given the age of the fort, some features have been rebuilt. But many details, including some of the cannons on the gun deck, are originals.
Tours
Fort Matanzas is a self-guided attraction. No formal tours are offered here.
Where to Stay
Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa
⭐️ Rating 8.4/10 | 📍Location: 200 Ocean Crest Drive, Palm Coast, FL | 🏩 View on Expedia
Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa is the perfect place for families to stay when visiting Fort Matanzas. Elegant and charming, the property is beautiful and offers some amazing amenities.
A full-service spa, a massive pool complex, and an adjoining golf course are some of the highlights at Hammock Beach!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Hammock Beach Gold Resort & Spa
10. Gulf Islands National Seashore
Miles of white sand beaches, barrier islands, forests, and historic forts make up the Gulf Islands National Seashore. The seashore accounts for 160 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, not only in Pensacola, Florida, but stretching into Mississippi as well.
During our last road trip through Florida, we visited this national seashore many times. The beaches and beautiful and were typically less crowded than the other beaches we visited. Kids can also participate in the junior ranger program here near Pensacola Beach.
Things To Do
Enjoy the Beach
Opal Beach (Santa Rosa Area), Langdon Beach (Fort Pickens Area), and Johnson Beach (Perdido Key Area) are all life-guard patrolled areas during the summer. These are the perfect places for swimming and snorkeling along the Gulf Islands Seashore.
Hike
There are so many places to hike throughout the Gulf Islands Seashore, including the famous Florida National Scenic Trail. Trails in Perdido Key, Fort Pickens, Santa Rosa, and Fort Barrancas will keep visitors happy exploring for days on end!
Bike
There are many routes for cyclists to take when exploring Gulf Islands Seashore. Florida National Scenic Trail is a favorite, but others along Johnson Beach Road and J. Earle Bowden Way offer incredible scenic vistas.
Visit Historic Sites
Perdido Key
Perdido Key is where Fort McRee once stood. This is a very remote location at the tip of the island, where you never know what historical artifacts you might find. The views of the shoreline and Fort Pickens in the distance are excellent from here.
However, you cannot drive to the end of the island to visit this site. You have to walk. There are a few bricks left from Fort McRee, but most of the fort was destroyed.
The beaches here are really pretty, and we had a great time at the Perdido Key State Park beach. There are a few dining options on the key, or you can pack a lunch!
Naval Live Oaks
The Naval Live Oaks portion of the seashore is one of the most forested areas. It features a pretty pavilion and lots of gorgeous picnic areas, not to mention over seven miles of hiking trails!
Fort Pickens
Explore the Civil War fort as well as the Fort Pickens Discovery Center. Kids will love the informative exhibits! You can watch a film about the park here too!
We had a great time during our visit to Fort Pickens. Our kids earned a junior ranger badge, we explored the fort, and we also watched a practice for the Blue Angels. It is a beautiful, undeveloped area of the beach in Pensacola that is well worth a visit.
Fort Barrancas
Both Fort Barrancas and Advanced Redoubt are fascinating places to explore. These structures offer a unique look into Florida’s rich history.
Camp
Fort Pickens is the only campground in the Florida portion of the Gulf Islands National Seashore and one of the few national parks in Florida with RV camping.
Unlike primitive camping in other Florida national parks, this spot has some convenient amenities, including cell service, trash collection, water and power hook-ups, and a dump station. Flush toilets and hot showers are an added bonus!
Campers should be prepared with all needed goods, as the nearest store is 15 miles away, outside of the park. Backcountry camping on beaches is permitted in certain areas along the Gulf Islands Seashore. See the park’s backcountry camping page for specific details.
Tours
Pensacola Beach Jolly Dolphin Cruise and Scenic Bay Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length: 1 hour and 30 minutes – 2 hours | Check Rates & Availability
This Pensacola Beach Jolly Dolphin Cruise and Scenic Bay Tour is a fun and comfortable way to take in the sights of Pensacola Beach and the wildlife from the water.
This tour will not stop at Gulf Islands Seashore, but it will pass by portions of it. It’s not the same as visiting the shoreline in person, but at least it offers visitors a glimpse of it.
▶️ BOOK Pensacola Beach Jolly Dolphin Cruise and Scenic Bay Tour
Where to Stay
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Navarre Beach
⭐️ Rating 9/10 Stars | 📍Location: 8375 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL | 🏩 View on Expedia
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Navarre Beach is a great family-friendly hotel choice in the Navarre Beach area. This hotel features a free continental breakfast and a pool set-up your kids have only dreamed about! An outdoor pool, lazy river, and hot tub are tough to beat!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at SpringHill Suites by Marriott Navarre Beach
11. Timucuan (Ecological & Historic Preserve)
Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve is a vast wetlands area in Jacksonville. It’s a striking place for visitors to explore salt marshes and coastal dunes. It’s also home to Fort Caroline and Kingsley Plantation.
Things To Do
Fish
The Timucuan Preserve offers a serene and relaxing place for anglers to come to fish. A valid Florida Fishing License is required, but it’s a low-key and family-friendly way to spend some time in this area.
Hike
The Hammock Trail is a popular hiking route in the preserve. It’s an easy trail that families will enjoy. Visitors exploring in the spring may even catch a firefly show along their hike!
Explore Timucuan Preserve Visitor Center at Fort Caroline
The Visitors Center is a great place to learn more about the preserve. The “Where the Waters Meet” exhibit educates visitors about the lush environment in northeast Florida and the impact people have had on the environment throughout history.
There’s also a fun bookstore here, as well as kid-friendly activities and other exhibits to explore.
Visit the Observation Tower at Round Marsh
Theodore Roosevelt Area trails will lead visitors to Round Marsh, where the observation tower stands. This is a great place to bird-watch and take in the beauty of St. Johns River.
Tours
There are no formal tours at this location. Timucuan Preserve is best experienced in a self-guided manner.
Where to Stay
Holiday Inn Express Jacksonville – Blount Island, an IHG Hotel
⭐️ Rating 8.6/10 | 📍Location: 10148 New Berlin Rd, Jacksonville, FL | 🏩 View on Expedia
Families traveling with infants will love Holiday Inn Express Jacksonville – Blount Island, as the property provides cribs without an extra charge. The rooms also feature both microwaves and refrigerators. Other freebies here include daily breakfast and complimentary RV parking.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Holiday Inn Express Jacksonville – Blount Island
National Parks in Florida Map
National Parks in Florida: Free Days and Park Fees
The National Park Service will offer free admittance into all U.S. National Parks (including those in Florida) on the below dates during the 2023 calendar year.
- August 4th
- September 23rd
- November 11th
The following parks offer free admittance year-round:
- Big Cypress National Preserve
- Biscayne National Park
- De Soto National Memorial
- Fort Caroline National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve
2023 park fees for the remaining Florida national parks are listed below. Each pass purchased is valid for seven days of admittance into that park.
- Canaveral National Seashore: $20/vehicle, $15/motorcycle, $10/pedestrian
- Castillo de San Marcos National Monument: $15/adult, no fee for children under 16.
- Dry Tortugas National Park: $15/adult, no fee for children under 16.
- Everglades National Park: $30/vehicle, $25/motorcycle, $15/pedestrian
- Gulf Islands National Seashore: $25/vehicle, $20/motorcycle, $15/pedestrian
Things to Bring With You
Reusable Water Bottle
It’s important to stay hydrated when exploring national parks, especially in the heat. Always keep a reusable water bottle like the REI Co-op Nalgene Sustain Graphic Wide-Mouth Water Bottle close for sips along your adventures.
▶️ SHOP Nalgene Wide-Mouth Water Bottle
Polarized Sunglasses
Spending lots of time in the sun can be harmful to your eyes. Be smart and explore the parks in style with a good set of polarized sunglasses. These goodr Everglades National Park Polarized Sunglasses are a perfect fit for a Florida adventure!
▶️ SHOP goodr Everglades National Park Polarized Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Keeping your skin protected should be a top priority. A small sunscreen like Badger SPF 40 Protect Land & Sea Clear Zinc Sunscreen Cream Tin is convenient to handle while exploring the land or waves!
▶️ SHOP Badger SPF 40 Protect Land & Sea Clear Zinc Sunscreen
Insect Repellant
There are lots of creepy crawlies out in nature. Keep mosquitos, ticks, and all sorts of insects off your body, clothing, and even gear with Sawyer Permethrin Pump Spray. Treat your clothing and any other items you wish to protect before your park adventure for the best repellant results.
▶️ SHOP Sawyer Permethrin Pump Spray
Sun Hat
Add more sun protection with a sun hat like Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat. This hat is moisture-wicking and quick-drying as well!
▶️ SHOP Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat
Hiking Shoes
You never know exactly what you’re going to run into while hiking trails in Florida’s national parks. Be prepared for anything with a quality hiking shoe like Columbia Redmond V2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe.
▶️ SHOP Columbia Redmond V2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe
Hiking Socks
Nothing can ruin a day in the park quicker than uncomfortable feet. Socks are the first line of defense, so make sure you’ve got a tried and true pair like Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks. These socks are very durable while also offering maximum comfort.
▶️ SHOP Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks
Rain Jacket
It’s always smart to bring extra layers when exploring national parks. A light rain jacket like the Waterproof Rain Jacket Lightweight Hooded Raincoat is a great choice because it isn’t bulky, can provide additional warmth when needed, and is, of course, water-resistant.
▶️ SHOP Waterproof Rain Jacket Lightweight Hooded Raincoat
National Parks Map
It’s easy to get lost when you’re wandering around in the wilderness. Keep a map or guide like the National Geographic Guide to National Parks of the United States on hand to help you always know where you are!
▶️ SHOP National Geographic Guide to National Parks of the United States
Day Pack
A lightweight day pack is essential for days spent hiking and exploring national parks. Hiking Backpack 40L Waterproof Lightweight with Rain Cover is a great example of the type of pack that works best for active outdoor adventures.
▶️ SHOP Hiking Daypack with Rain Cover
Binoculars
Nikon Trailblazer ATB Waterproof 8 x 25 Binoculars or something similar is a great addition to your national park packing list. Binoculars help travelers take in the beauty of their surroundings even from afar and are perfect for bird watching!
▶️ SHOP Nikon Trailblazer ATB Waterproof 8 x 25 Binoculars
First Aid Kit
We hope all national park adventures go without incident, but it’s always smart to be prepared! Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Hiker Medical Kit is easily portable and offers peace of mind if any injuries should occur.
▶️ SHOP Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Hiker Medical Kit
Backpack Cooler
Because hydration is so important when spending active time outdoors, consider bringing a backpack cooler along on your adventures. The IceMule Pro Cooler is a great example of a convenient way to transport cool drinks throughout your time in the park.
Best Time to Visit the National Parks in Florida
Fall through Spring is the best time of year to visit the national parks in Florida. This is the state’s dry season, so visitors won’t need to be as concerned about rain, and the temperatures will also be mild.
FAQ: National Parks in Florida
How Many National Parks Are in Florida?
There are 11 national parks in FL. The parks are scattered throughout the state, from the panhandle to remote islands off the coast.
What Are the Names of the 11 National Parks in Florida?
Here’s a list of the 11 National Parks in Florida:
- Big Cypress National Preserve
- Biscayne National Park
- Canaveral National Seashore
- Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
- De Soto National Memorial
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Everglades National Park
- Fort Caroline National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Gulf Islands National Seashore
- Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve
Which is the Largest of Florida’s National Parks?
Everglades is the largest of Florida’s National Parks. It’s the third-largest national park in the mainland United States.
What National Park is Closest to Orlando, Florida?
Canaveral National Seashore is the closest national park to Orlando. Canaveral is about an hour’s drive outside of Orlando. A road trip from Orlando to Miami could be a fun route to take, including some additional stops at other national parks.
Is Everglades National Park in FL?
Yes, Everglades National Park is in Florida. The park is so massive that it has three different entrances in different Florida cities.
What is the Least Visited National Park in Florida and Why?
Dry Tortugas is the least visited national park in Florida. Its remote location, 70 miles from Key West, makes it a difficult destination for many tourists to visit.
Which National Parks in Florida Can You Drive To?
Most of the Florida national parks are accessible by car. Big Cypress, Everglades, De Soto, Canaveral, Fort Matanzas, Castillo de San Marcos, Fort Caroline, and Timucuan are all accessible by car.
Conclusion: National Parks in Florida
National parks in Florida are full of rich history and opportunities for outdoor fun. Beaches, nature trails, kayaking routes, historic buildings, and much more await you! We hope you have a fantastic time exploring the national parks in Florida!
