Blue Spring State Park
2100 W. French Ave.
Orange City, FL 32763
386-775-3663
Blue Spring is an important refuge for the West Indian Manatees, one of Florida's most widely known endangered species. These peaceful creatures usually journey down the St. John's River in November, and stay until the early spring. The best viewing times are in the morning and late afternoon. The 7,000 acres of wild scenery also allow plenty of space for camping, boating and swimming. The crystal clear spring is also well-known as a prime spot for snorkeling and SCUBA diving.
Lake Louisa State Park
7305 US Highway 27
Clermont, FL 34714
352-394-3969
Set on the shores of Lake Louisa, Lake Louisa State Park offers a variety of activities to get you in touch with nature. The 4,000 acre state park offers fishing in four different lakes as well as designated trails for horseback riding. There are also campsites available for overnight guests. Visitors can see an abundance of wildlife along the trails, including White Tail Deer, Marsh Rabbits, Alligators and Bobcats. The marshy areas of the park are also home to many species of migratory birds.
Tosohatchee State Reserve
3365 Taylor Creek Road
Christmas, FL 32709
407-568-5893
Many different species call the diverse habitats in Tosohatchee State Reserve home. The marshes are a major waypoint for migrating birds, allowing for unique birding and photography opportunities. The wooded uplands are home to gray foxes, fox squirrels and a number of bird species, including bald eagles, hawks and owls. Park Rangers offer special tours and programs on a rotating basis, so be sure to call for details.
University of Central Florida Arboretum
4000 Central Florida Boulevard
Orlando, FL 32816
407-823-3146
The 80-acre UCF Arboretum is home to a staggering 600 plant species. Most native Florida species are on display, as are a number of exotic species introduced as a teaching tool for the University's biology programs. Native wildlife also abounds throughout the varied habitats. Visitors can walk themselves through a self-guided tour (maps available) or call in advance to schedule a group session, led by one the school's highly trained botanists.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
1800 Wekiwa Circle
Apopka, FL 32712
407-884-2008
Naturally refreshing springs are one of the main attractions at this state park. Divers can swim deep into the underwater trench, only to be pushed back to the surface by the gentle push of the spring. Canoeing is also especially enjoyable at this park, with so many lakes and streams to paddle down. The park also features boating, camping, hiking, picnic areas and fishing.
Kelly Park
400 E. Kelly Park Rd.
Apopka, FL 32712
407-889-4179
This Orange County Park is filled with fun for you and your family. Kids love this place, so be prepared. The major attraction is Rock Springs, which bubbles up from a rock outcropping and flows into a meandering stream. You'll find most visitors rollicking down the stream in a tube or on a float. There are also picnic pavilions and camping areas if you want to have a bite or spend a night under the stars.
The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve
2700 Scrub Jay Trail
Kissimmee, FL 34759
407-935-0002
The Nature Conservancy and Disney partnered in 1993 to preserve 12,000 acres of natural habitat critical to the survival of many rare species. Visitors to the preserve can walk a 3-mile hiking trail or take an off-road buggy tour to see conservation in action. Lucky visitors can encounter Florida scrub jays, gopher tortoises, bald eagles and a number of other species as they travel through.
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park
Canaveral National Seashore
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
De Leon Springs State Park
Fort De Soto Park