20 Attractions to Explore Near Osceola National Forest

Big Gum Swamp Wilderness is a protected natural wonder situated in Baker County, Florida. Spanning over 20,000 acres of lush and breathtaking scenery, visitors are offered an adventurous outdoor experience. The area is home to an abundance of native wildlife including alligators, turtles, bald eagles and other birds-of-prey. As part of the Osceola National Forest, Big Gum Swamp Wilderness offers a wide variety of activities such as hiking, canoeing and camping.

Ocean Pond is a small yet stunning destination in Baker County. Located in the western reaches of the county, this picturesque body of water is an oasis of tranquility and wildlife surrounded by pines and palmettos. Activities like fishing, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding can be enjoyed here in the warm clear waters or around the lush vegetation at its edges. If you're looking for the perfect spot for a peaceful picnic or swim then Ocean Pond is your go-to destination.

Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park is owned by the State of Florida, but the United States Forest Service maintains another 688 acres (2.78 km2) as part of a Special Use Permit.

Falling Creek Falls is one of the most remarkable natural attractions in Baker County, Florida. Located in the Osceola National Forest, it offers breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls and lush foliage, making it a perfect destination for outdoor lovers. The impressive 25-foot waterfalls plunge over two tiers surrounded by rock formations. Visitors can take a swim or wade into its natural pool and admire the stunning scenery at the same time.

Okefenokee Swamp is something to behold. Encompassing over 400,000 acres of land, the swamp has earned a reputation as one of the most pristine and remarkable ecosystems in the United States. Featuring cypress trees, native wildlife and a wide variety of plants, it has been designated by Congress as a National Wildlife Refuge. Fishing and boating are popular activities that many visitors partake in. It is also home to an array of migrating birds each year.

The Santa Fe River is typical of many rivers in karst regions in that it disappears underground and then reappears 5 kilometres (3 miles) downstream.

Lake Sampson, located is an amazing natural retreat that offers a variety of activities for locals and visitors. Covering nearly 700 acres of protected green space, the lake is home to over seventy-five species of fish and many other aquatic wildlife. Visitors are able to enjoy activities such as fishing, water skiing and canoeing with its miles of picturesque shoreline. Moreover, the surrounding parklands make it easy to explore nature trails or spot local birds and wildlife.

Crosby Lake is a stunning lake that over 1,500 acres wide with more than 45 miles of shoreline along two nature preserves and the Bradfords' rural countryside. Its crystal clear waters draw in avid anglers from across the state with its rich fishing grounds where large-mouth bass, bluegill sunfish, channel catfish and crappie can all be caught. Other outdoor recreation opportunities include bird watching at the nearby Orange Creek State Buffer Preserve or skating on one of its many sandbars.

Chesser Island, is an untouched paradise in the heart of southeastern coastal life. Boasting crystal-clear waters and sugar-white beaches brimming with wildlife, it's become one of the state's most sought-after vacation destinations. After arriving in Chesser Island visitors can enjoy numerous outdoor activities including fishing, swimming, boating and kayaking or simply relax on its exquisite beaches. The island also offers nature trails for keen hikers and bird watchers to explore.

Retirement Home for Horses Inc Alachua Fla, works to provide a comfortable and safe lifespan for horses once they retire from their working lives. They rescue horses that are mistreated or unwanted, give them veterinary care, rehabilitate any behavioral issues and socialize them until they can find loving owners. Retirement Home for Horses Inc Alachua Fla provides horse owners with support such as seminars on horse ownership and an auction for those wishing to adopt these retired horses.

Camp Milton Historic Preserve is a beautiful 36-acre nature park that contains the last surviving earthen works from the Civil War, making it an important historic site. Inside of the preserve visitors can observe historical monuments such as cannons and earthen walls, constructed to protect Jacksonville during the American Civil War. In addition to its fascinating history, Camp Milton is home to unique wildlife and many outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding.

The Lubee Bat Conservancy is devoted to protecting bats and their habitats, both domestically and internationally. The conservancy has significantly grown over the decades, now containing more than 40 acres of lush tropical forest and meadows. The site serves as a research lab and educational center that educates visitors about the importance of bats to our ecosystem. Through rehabilitating injured and orphaned bats as well as breeding endangered species, they strive to protect these animals.

Okefenokee Adventures is the perfect way to explore this stunning region of the United States. Nestled between swamps, rivers and forests, it provides visitors with a diverse range of activities to enjoy. From canoeing on its serene waterways, getting close up views of wildlife in the surrounding wetlands or learning about local history at the ‘Swamp Park’, this destination offers something for all tastes.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is a magical paradise where nature thrives and visitors can spot wild animals ranging from alligators to turtles to 218 species of birds. Here, visitors can explore the swamp on canoes, kayaks and boats as they take in the breathtaking views offered. The refuge offers six maintained trails for biking or hiking that allow guests to get up close and personal with nature's wonders.

This Museum provides a vibrant glimpse into the area's history. Located in a restored building that was once the city hall and fire station.It reveals the stories of local residents and the community through carefully crafted displays. Its permanent exhibit chronicles the history of High Springs from its earliest days to modern times with artifacts, photographs. Visitors can learn about the county's industry including lumbering, cattle raising, citrus production and turpentine harvesting.

Hampton Lake is an amazing destination for anyone looking to explore the outdoors. Located along the Santa Fe River, the lake is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts and a great spot for swimming and boating. The area is surrounded by lush forestlands and near countless natural destinations such as clear springs, wildlife preserves, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Visitors can also observe prominent species, including turtles, alligators, birds of prey, and bald eagles.

Kingsley Lake in Clay County, Florida is a beautiful oasis situated just outside the city of Jacksonville. This popular recreational spot is a great destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. With its crystal clear blue waters and picturesque scenery, it's no wonder why this lake has become a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Whether you come here for some leisurely fishing or to spend an afternoon on the lake in a kayak or canoe.

Rare plants such as the Bartram's Ixia and St. John's Susan can be found in the Jennings State Forest.

Stephen C Foster State Park is a beautiful outdoor spot that offers a range of recreational activities, from hiking and biking trails to fishing and canoeing. Visitors can see some amazing native wildlife as they explore the Okefenokee Swamp, which is made up of amazing blackwater lake basins and cypress swamps. Campers can take advantage of shops, services and amenities such as picnic shelters and pavilions, playgrounds, restroom facilities, game courts and much more.

Poe Springs Park is located about 3 miles west of High Springs, Florida. It is is 202 acres in size.