Perdido Key State Park

Theme parks and beach resorts might be the first things that come to mind when thinking of Florida, but locals and savvy visitors have long considered Florida’s award winning State Parks to be the state’s real gem. Florida’s outdoors are as unique as the people (looking at you, Florida Man) and there’s no better way to experience them than at one of our 175 state parks.

1. They’re the best in the nation. Seriously, Florida State Parks is the only parks system to win the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence three times. That means that our parks aren’t only beautiful, but they’re well-maintained to provide visitors a world-class experience.

Lower Wekiva River Preserve

2. They’re affordable. Florida State Parks are free for disabled veterans and all honorably discharged veterans receive a 25% discount on annual passes.
3. You can go year-round. Leave the parkas and gloves at home because the average yearly high temperature in Florida is 81 degrees. And if that’s too warm for you, nothing beats the heat like a swim in a cool spring.
4. There’s something for everyone. From canoeing through Collier-Seminole State Park’s mangrove swamps to strolling through Maclay Gardens, Florida’s state parks offer a range of experiences that visitors of any age or adventure level can enjoy.
5. See the Real Florida. State parks offer a glimpse of the old Florida that makes our state unique. Enjoy the white sand of Perdido Key’s pristine beaches or explore Crystal River Preserve State Park’s 27,000 undeveloped acres teeming with wildlife.

Crystal River Preserve State Park

6. State parks are everywhere. You don’t have to go far to get to one of Florida’s 175 state parks. Hike the trails around the Lower Wekiva River just outside Orlando, or walk along Amelia Island State Park without ever leaving Jacksonville.

These are just a few reasons why millions of people visit Florida State Parks each year, but don’t take our word for it. Check out floridastateparks.org to find a park and plan your next trip.