While it would be easy to kick this road trip off with Dry Tortugas, the least-visited National Park in the state, you, unfortunately, need a boat or seaplane to visit. However, this road trip will take you to many drivable state parks in Florida that might not get as much recognition as some of the big names out there. With a mixture of Florida state parks and forests on this list, let’s celebrate some of the historic and often downright beautiful spots throughout the Sunshine State by visiting a few of the least-visited state parks on this incredible Florida road trip.
The entire road trip takes about six hours to complete, so make sure to plan accordingly. You can always stretch this trip into a few days in order to really get the feel of it all. You can find the entire itinerary here.
1. Colt Creek State Park - Lakeland
The first stop on this Florida road trip is in Lakeland, Florida at Colt Creek State Park. This underrated gem is located at the foot of the Green Swamp and provides incredible habitat for pine flatwoods, wetlands, and cypress domes. With over 12 miles of multipurpose trails, you’ll be able to spend a few hours here at minimum, wandering through nature.
2. Dade Battlefield Historic State Park - Bushnell
Peppering in a little bit of history for the hidden gems in Florida the next stop is Dade Battlefield Historic State Park. What was established in 1921 to commemorate Dade’s Battle of 1835, has now ended up being more well-known for the 40-acres of flatwoods and a live oak hammock.
3. Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park - Sanford
The Wekiva River is one of the most beautiful and underrated natural aspects of Central Florida. Indigenous people used the abundance of this river for years, and now the system of wetlands and blackwater streams can be enjoyed by all, including a wide variety of wildlife. Come hike the trails or paddle along the river and enjoy the fresh air. Plus, if you’re looking to pause exploring the state parks in Florida for an overnight stop, these campsites are perfect!
4. Bulow Creek State Park - Ormond Beach
The truth is, Bulow Creek State Park is huge clocking in at over 5,500-acres of protected land. However, this Florida state park still remains a hidden gem tucked away on Old Dixie Highway near the Atlantic. Protecting one of the largest remaining stands of southern live oak forest, come see for yourself the beauty of these massive trees.
5. Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park - Gainesville
Devil’s Millhopper Geological Park is a beloved hidden gem in Florida’s natural system. This National landmark attracts visitors from all over, dating back to the 1880s. With water running into a sinkhole, plus tons of natural beauty, many have declared this area to be a miniature rainforest in the heart of Gainesville.
6. Goethe State Forest - Dunnellon
We are ending this Florida road trip on a high note at the Goethe State Forest in Dunnellon, Florida. At over 50,000 acres of space, this state forest offers a wide variety of activities throughout nature. From the various equestrian trails and wildlife habitats, you’ll enjoy a slice of the outdoors you might not have known to exist. Keep an eye out for the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker that calls this forest home!
So, what do you think about this Florida road trip? Have you been to any of these spots before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or if you have other Florida state parks, you think we should know about, make sure to shout those out, too.
Which one of these Florida state parks are you most excited to explore? Before you take your trip, look at our Road Trip Essentials Packing List & Guide to stock up on everything you need.
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