It’s a great time to plan an adventure.
If hiking, camping, swimming and fishing are on your list for outdoor fun, check out Florida’s state parks.
No matter where you live or vacation in the state, you’ll find a state park within an hour’s drive.
Here are four activities you can enjoy:
- Hiking – Saturday, June 7, is National Trails Day. Strap on your hiking shoes and enjoy a hike on a state park nature trail. The American Hiking Society encourages hikers to also enjoy a day of service and advocacy. Bring an empty trash bag on your hike so you can pick up litter as you walk the trail.
- Camping – June is also National Camping Month! Pack your tent, graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate for a camping adventure. Find a campground, make your reservation and prepare to make memories (and s'mores) in...the Real Florida.
- Swimming – Florida’s state parks offer fresh and saltwater for swimming. More than a dozen state parks have freshwater springs for swimming in 72-degree, crystal-clear waters. These parks are popular so make plans to arrive early. Florida's famous beaches are terrific for swimming, building sandcastles, collecting shells and relaxing. Some of these beach parks also offer canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard rentals.
- Fishing – Grab your fishing poles and tackle box head out to find a new fishing spot. Many state parks offer shorelines on rivers, lakes, the Gulf of America or the Atlantic Ocean. Some even offer piers. A fishing license may be required. More information is available at the Florida Wildlife Commission's Fishing in Florida.
With any outdoor activity, be mindful of the weather before heading out. In June, it could be hot, rainy or breezy, all depending upon where you are and what time you’re planning to be outside. Always bring drinking water, snacks for the little ones, sunscreen and bug spray.
