Few People Know There’s a Natural Wonder Hiding in This Tiny Florida Town

The town of Okeechobee, Florida, might be small in size, but it sure does pack a punch in terms of natural attractions. With around 6,000 residents populating Okeechobee, it might not immediately make your bucket list for weekend exploration in the Sunshine State. In fact, this small city is oftentimes overshadowed by nearby destinations like Fort Pierce and Jensen Beach. 

I have only visited this charming town a handful of times, mostly to see friends or for an event. If you’re anything like me, you'll regret overlooking this scenic destination. After you see this expansive natural wonder in Florida, you’ll want to visit again and again. Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park is located approximately 25 miles north of Okeechobee and is filled with breathtaking grassland, endangered species, and so much more. Are you ready for the ultimate outdoor experience in Florida? Of course, you are!

Just 25 miles northwest of the town of Okeechobee, guests will come across the largest remaining expanse of dry prairie in the state of Florida. Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park is a 54,000-acre park that is bursting with natural wonderment, from the endangered wildlife to the incredible views. This mesmerizing expanse of seemingly infinite grassland is part of an ecosystem that was shaped by various cycles of flooding and fire over the years.

With such a wide-open expanse, people come to this prairie preserve to birdwatch with binoculars and to photograph a crested caracara or a burrowing owl. Camping is a popular activity here, and campers can spot the Milky Way with the naked eye, which is pretty cool for Florida. Being so far away from city lights is what makes this park so special. In 2016, the International Dark Sky Association recognized it as Florida’s very first Dark Sky Park. Another reason to camp? To witness the warm Florida sunset as the skies are painted with shades of amber.

Anyone who wants to get a front-row seat for all of the natural wonder action, join a Kissimmee Prairie Preserve buggy tour, as you are guided through tall grass, watching deer and bobcats run through the open terrain. Plus, as part of the Everglades headwaters, expect multiple waterways at the park. Chances are, you'll see our resident gator in the swampy lands, too. I'd suggest bringing your camera to snap pics of some of the wildlife you’ll see here, as you might not get a chance to see them elsewhere.

Since the prairie is mainly flat and grassy, the trails are easy with very low elevation gains, which means they're both kid and dog-friendly. One of the best ways to explore the park is on horseback. And since it's a popular activity in the park, you might run into several of these adorable animals as you trek. There is an equestrian campground for folks to bring their own horses. Other activities include picnicking, glamping, biking, and more. This is the kind of peaceful and remote destination where I could get lost (on purpose) for hours.

Bring your entire family to enjoy this hidden natural wonder near Okeechobee and see a side of the Sunshine State you may have never seen before. This hidden gem state park in Florida will be an experience you can't get anywhere else and is worthy of a visit.

Have you already visited Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park before? What were your thoughts about this incredible natural wonder in Okeechobee, Florida? Shout out on our nomination page! You can also learn more about the park regarding admission fees and camping options by visiting the Kissimmee Prairie Preserve website.

Are you ready to keep exploring the area? We have another incredible wonder for you to enjoy - the most remote lake in Florida, Lake George! Or when you're feeling inspired, use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to discover more small-town natural wonders. With just a few clicks of the mouse, you never know what adventure is waiting for you.