23 Wildlife Sanctuaries to Explore in Florida

Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary offers visitors an incredible opportunity to explore some of the most pristine natural areas in the state. Home to some of the oldest Bald Cypress trees in existence, a 13-mile boardwalk stretching through the swamp, and a variety of wildlife species and plants. It is also home to research facilities conducted by various universities, as well as local artist studios where visitors can join classes to channel their creative energies.

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.

Black Point Wildlife Drive is one of the most beautiful and unique nature spots in the area. This six-mile loop located in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge features breathtaking views of a variety of landscapes and animals. Visitors can spot numerous species including alligators, herons, ospreys, bald eagles and many more. The boardwalk also provides opportunities to explore local marshes up close without disturbing the fragile environment.

During the 1940s and 1950s, extensive logging was occurring in Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, destroying many bald cypress and pond cypress trees. The sanctuary was established to protect these remaining trees.

Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a tranquil refuge for many species of plants and animals. The 7,531-acre site is comprised mostly of sawgrass marshes and hardwood hammocks. In addition to providing essential habitat for local wildlife, the Refuge also supports an array of recreational activities such as wildlife viewing, canoeing, hiking and fishing. Visitors can observe alligators, wading birds and other unique species during their visits.

The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is part of the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Largest tropical wilderness in the United States. The Everglades are a network of wetlands and forests fed by a river flowing 0.25 miles (0.40 km) per day out of Lake Okeechobee, southwest into Florida Bay. The park is the most significant breeding ground for tropical wading birds in North America and contains the largest mangrove ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere.

The Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1989 under the Endangered Species Act by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, to protect the endangered Florida panther, as well as other threatened plant and animal species.

The Helen & Allan Cruickshank Sanctuary is a scenic oasis of serenity and beauty. It spans 15 acres of coastal uplands with wetlands, scrub jays, gopher tortoises, and other wildlife thriving amongst its tall pines, oaks and palms. Visitors to the sanctuary can explore various trails that meander through a diverse ecosystem of aquascapes, longleaf sandhill, mesic flatwoods -- as well as boardwalks and bridges that make for an docile sightseeing journey.

On the University of Florida campus, there is a small lake called Lake Alice. Gainesville's lake is a wildlife area and one of the few places in the city where one can see live alligators.

Lake Talquin State Forest offers a stunning landscape and variety of activities. From camping and fishing to breathtaking views, it's no wonder why so many people flock to this serene pond every year. The lake also features spectacular waterfalls and riverside activities such as rockhounding, where visitors can find fossils or sparkling lakeshore gems. Enjoy a leisurely stroll down nature trails or explore the Appalachian Trail.

To provide habitat for migrating and wintering birds, the Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1964.

Loblolly Woods Nature Park covers 48 acres of lush nature preserve, providing a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Featuring a variety of walking trails and boardwalks, a scenic lake with observation deck, the park is popular with both locals and tourists alike. Visitors have the opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat - or take part in educational programs such as bird-watching or native plant walks.

The Lochloosa Wildlife Management Area is a remarkable example of wildlife conservation and preservation. Spanning over 4436 acres, It is home to a variety of habitats that support various species of animals including alligators, deer, turkeys, quail. Within the area are two nature trails, with interpretive kiosks along each trail that provide information on native plants and how they serve as habitat for the creatures that live there. Hunting is also allowed in specific parts of the area.

Loggerhead Key, is a tropical paradise full of coastal scenery and endless activities. The island's most popular attraction is its seven miles of pristine beaches along its western shoreline, with crystal blue waters that are perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Visitors can also go fishing or kayaking around the island for an exciting adventure. Loggerhead Key Marine Sanctuary is also nearby, offering guided tours to explore the shallow waters full of sea life like green turtles and dolphins.

There are 140,000 acres (57,000 ha) of Merritt Island. A National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) on Florida's largest barrier island. The NWR contains saltwater estuaries, freshwater impoundments, marshes, dunes, hardwood hammocks, and scrub habitats.

The Ocala National Forest,is the oldest federally-protected forest east of the Mississippi River. Spanning over 385,000 acres of protected land, this forest is filled with natural springs, over 600 lakes and rivers, trails for hiking and biking, and a variety of wildlife. There's even a Ranger Station that serves as an education center, providing information on the area's plant life and history. There are also many campgrounds available throughout the park.

Peace River Wildlife Center offers educational tours to the public.

Sawgrass Recreation Park is a nature preserve offering an up-close look at the local wildlife.Visitors can explore thousands of acres of swampland and enjoy activities like boat tours, airboat rides, and a boardwalk birding trail. Also included on-site are educational lectures focused on topics such as the history of the Everglades and local ecology. With its wide variety of activities, Sawgrass Recreation Park offers something for everyone from outdoor adventurers to nature lovers.

Serengeti is an unforgettable experience that everyone should experience at least once. This safari allows visitors to observe more than 50 different species of animals up close, including zebra, emu, ostriches, bison, and more. On the tour you will also learn interesting facts about each animal and their natural habitats. Along the way you are even allowed to feed the animals. After the tour you can enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking some of the most beautiful scenery in Hillsborough County.