Florida State Parks -
More Than Just the Sun and Sea

Florida state parks are more than just beaches and swampland ecosystems. These state parks are designed to provide a wealth of activities (i.e., birding, boating, fishing and camping) for millions of annual visitors as well as preserve ecosystems and historical sites.

So often when potential travelers think of Florida, highly marketed and exciting places such as Palm Beach, Miami, South Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Daytona and Orlando are the first things that come to mind. However, there are over 150 state parks scattered throughout the Sunshine State which were formed in forests and around natural springs and rivers.

Some parks such as Fort De Soto near St. Petersburg Beach have been turned into state parks that keep history alive as well as the natural environment of that area. The 1,136 acres park is made up of five interconnected island with picnic shelters scattered throughout capable of accomodating at least 200 visitors. At the fort is the 12-inch mortar battery, the park’s namesake, which was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. Also of historic interest are two 1890 vintage British breech-loading, rapid-fire rifles.

History not your thing, how about the fact TripAdvisor named Fort De Soto as “America’s Top Beach” for 2009? The park offers over seven miles of waterfront which includes nearly three miles of the finest white sand beach in the United States. And if you have a strong need to fish there is the surf or one of the two 1,000 ft. fishing piers. There is also a 238 site family camping area with picnic tables, grills, water, electricity, modern restrooms and more.

Chances Offered By Florida State Parks

The vast variety of Florida parks may surprise you but you rarely find them on the major tourist maps or websites. You may have to do a little searching for that unique Floridian experience. A good place to begin is www.floridastateparks.org. The internet offers the opportunity for potential visitors to investigate the many activities offered to peak your interest.

Maybe you have neither the time for, nor an interest in camping or kayaking. Most Florida state parks offer nature walks and wildlife viewing and many are designed to allow visitors to explore nature with the minimum of interference from humankind.

Enjoy a Natural Event

Florida parks are the perfect locations for vacations away from the hustle of tourist traps and everyday life. They are also the perfect location for special events such as weddings, birthdays, retirement parties, etc. while enjoying the unspoiled touches of native wilderness. Consisting of both native and introduced plant and animal life the variety of flora and fauna available in Florida is amazing.

Photography, Events and Lighting

Stunning photography from Florida state parks can be produced by professional and amateur photographers alike. Florida offers some of the best in natural setting with a wealth of natural lighting situations. Plus Florida state parks can provide the perfect backdrop for anyone looking to document a unique Florida adventure outside of the hustle that comes with tourist traps and highly populated areas.

Summer temperatures and humidity can make things uncomfortable for those who have difficulty with temperatures commonly reaching 90 deg. F or greater. At other times Florida weather patterns create overcast skies with frequent daily showers. But most of the time the weather is beautiful, with balmy breezes and comfortable temperatures.

Mosquitoes can also be a problem, especially during the spring and summer months. There are non-toxic heat coils available at sporting goods stores throughout Florida that do a good job of keeping the pesky pests at bay. There are also a number of over-the-counter bug sprays that work well.

If you are simply looking for an out of the way place to enjoy a quiet peaceful vacation that allows you to spend quality time alone or with family and friends then consider the incredibly beautiful Florida state parks. Grab your shorts, sandals, suntan lotion and mosquito repellent and come on down. You will find the majority of Floridians very friendly.

Bookmark this site and return frequently as we will write about Florida state parks and towns and provide information that may be of interest to you when planning your next Florida visit. Remember to “Think Outside the Mouse.”

Contact us when your needs include a professional freelance photographer.




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