42 Forests to Explore in Florida

Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park is one of the most important archaeological sites in Florida. he complex originally included seven earthwork mounds, a public plaza and numerous individual village residences.

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.

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, is a stunning slice of paradise straight out of the tropics. Not only does the park provide visitors with beach access, fresh salt water fishing and unique coral formations, but also botanical attractions such as three species of native palms, Strangler Fig and Wild Olive Trees. One of the most breathtaking aspects of this tropical retreat are its lush mangrove swamps, full of wildlife both large and small.

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.

The Mobbly Bayou Wilderness is an outdoor oasis of natural beauty. Spanning over 6175 acres, the preserve provides a wealth of recreational activities such as hiking, kayaking, canoeing and camping. In addition to its robust lineup of outdoor activities, the preserve also boasts diverse wildlife such as alligators, turtles, herons and bald eagles that make their home there. It also offers several educational programs throughout the year designed to educate visitors on the local flora and fauna.

Monkey Jungle is a 30-acre wildlife park established in 1933 for the exhibition and study of endangered monkeys in semi-natural habitats. It is now a popular tourist attraction in this county. The park has about 500 primates of 18 different species running loose.

Newnans Lake State Forest is an outdoor recreation paradise. Known for its gorgeous scenery, excellent swimming and boating opportunities, and dense native forests, it provides a wide variety of experiences that can be enjoyed year round. The lake's varied wildlife attracts dedicated viewers and birdwatchers alike while its thick forests offer the perfect location to embark on a guided hike or find ample places to set up camp. Additionally, the park offers access to nearby springs.

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.

Herbert Hoover created the Osceola National Forest on July 10, 1931. It was named after the Seminole warrior, Osceola.

This Forest is a unique ecosystem combining wetland and pine flatwoods with cypress strands and dome swamps. Spanning over 115,000 acres of subtropical wilderness, the forest provides miles of trails for hiking and cycling, camping spots for enthusiastic adventurers, ample opportunities for swimming in rivers, lakes, and beaches as well as world class fishing. For nature watchers, Picayune Strand won't disappoint; there are plenty of species to explore from alligators to panthers.

Pine Log State Forest, is a favorite local spot of outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Covering over 11,000 acres within the Nokuse Plantation area, Pine Log State Forest is a great place to explore. Paved trails through cypress-lined ponds make for excellent hiking or biking experiences with chances to see native wildlife along the way. The forest also offers hunters access for deer, turkey and small game hunting as well as primitive camping spots throughout.

San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park is a 6,500-acre expanse of conservation lands. This park offers visitors the opportunity to explore an array of ecosystems, from the rolling hills of sandhill to the shady hammocks and wet prairies. On hikes by way of 14 miles of trails, guests can see live oak trees draped in Spanish moss as well as diverse wildlife including foxes, wild turkeys and most notably, hundreds of species of birds. The park also provides canoe and kayak rentals.

San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve is a fascinating spot perfect for scuba divers and snorkelers alike. Filled with beautiful coral reefs surrounding thirteen historic sites, it offers visitors glimpses of fascinating artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries while they explore the incredible sea life below. There are options to take a guided tour of the site with an educational ranger or you can rent your own boat or kayak and adventure through on your own schedule.

Seminole State Forest covers 25,812 acres in Central Florida. The forest is accessible via Florida State Road 44, Lake County Road 46A, and Florida State Road 46.

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.

Spanning nearly 17 miles, the trail is a former rail corridor and follows the path of an old branch of the Pensacola and Atlantic Railroad. The corridor runs north to south through several rural towns, providing visitors with unparalleled vistas of hardwood uplands, riverside swamps, and marshes as they make their way through centuries-old Piney woods. With convenient access points throughout the trail, visitors can explore portions of it or all in one go!

In Tiger Bay State Forest, there are large swamps with pine islands embedded in them and a large pine ridge area.

The Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve offers many incredible experiences for visitors. Guests can explore the untouched estuaries of Big Talbot Island and Little Talbot Island, discovering native wildlife and over 6,000 years of history from the region's first inhabitants. At Fort Caroline National Memorial, visitors have the chance to learn more about French cultural influence in colonial America. The preserve also features an array of trails suitable for hiking and biking.

Wilmot Gardens is a perfect place for visitors to relax and appreciate nature. Situated on the banks of the Santa Fe River, the lush grounds of Wilmot Gardens boast a variety of native trees and plants, including magnolias, camellias, azaleas, and dogwoods. This peaceful spot offers the opportunity to observe wild animals like whitetail deer, turkeys, and birds in their natural habitats. Stroll along walking trails or take a guided canoe tour along the river to appreciate its unique beauty.