10 Things to Do in Florida State Forests
1. View Wildlife and Wildflowers
Florida’s more than 1 million acres of state forest land are home to many species of wildlife and beautiful wildflowers. Roads, rivers, trails, boardwalks and wildlife viewing blinds offer visitors ample opportunities to experience the wilder side of the forests. Be on the lookout for wild orchids, including the many-flowered grass-pink (Calopogon multiflorus), orange fringed orchid (Platanthera cristata) and rose pogonia (Pogonia ophioglossoides). You might also try to spot one of Florida’s elusive black bears (Ursus americanus floridanus) or panthers (Puma concolor coryi). Every trip provides a new glimpse into Florida’s nature!
2. Camp in Nature
Find your perfect forest camping spot and create lasting memories of forest nightlife! Unplug and refresh your mind at one of the hundreds of campsites dispersed throughout our state forests. You can camp next to a peaceful river, along a quiet trail, next to your horse, at a campsite large enough for your extended family, or near one of our exciting, challenging off-highway vehicle trails — the choice is yours.
Make your reservations today at FloridaStateForests.ReserveAmerica.com.
3. Paddle and Fish the Scenic Waters
You never know what excitement awaits you in the water. Kayaking over shoals, spotting an alligator or landing a trophy fish — what’s your thrill? Need to relax? Experience the unique peace of nature while afloat on a lake or river. Paddling at Twin Rivers State Forest, named after the junction of the Suwannee and Withlacoochee rivers, can be both relaxing and exciting. It all depends on the water level of the rivers.
Other great state forests to paddle are Blackwater, Four Creeks, Jennings, Lake Talquin, Little Big Econ, Myakka, Point Washington, Ralph E. Simmons, Seminole, Tate’s Hell and Withlacoochee.
4. Step Deeper Into the Forests
Hike a forest trail for a nature adventure. Our trails can take you everywhere from North Florida's upland pines and ravines, to Central Florida's sandhills, to South Florida's swamps. There's a hike that’s perfect for everyone. Take a short walk on the educational trail at Lake Talquin’s Bear Creek or thru-hike the Florida National Scenic Trail, which runs through many of our state forests. Our newest attraction is the Pioneer Trail at Jennings State Forest.
5. Fun Fitness — Find Your Type of Trail
Make your workout exciting and naturally refreshing by biking, hiking, or riding horses or off-highway vehicles in our state forests. The benefits of exercising outdoors include elevated serotonin levels, an increased sense of well-being, and a greater appreciation of nature. Exercise your body and refresh your mind in the forest! Distance yourself from the hectic modern world.
6. Value the History That Remains
“A new deal for the American people” was promised by Franklin D. Roosevelt in his address accepting the presidential nomination at the Democratic National Convention in 1932. His administration later established several economic relief programs, which included labor camps in Florida. In 1935 the U.S. government started the Welaka Forestry and Wildlife Conservation Project and later transferred the property to the University of Florida. Welaka was acquired for management by the Florida Forest Service in 1992 and still serves as an educational forest, now known as Welaka State Forest. Pictured below, in both photos, is the World War I veterans’ labor camp at Welaka in 1935.
7. Cool Off in the Waters of Our State Forests
Explore nature from a different view — floating in the water, rediscovering your peace. Swim in a spring, lake or river with the forest surrounding you. Refresh yourself! Visiting the natural swimming holes in Florida's state forests is a great way to experience nature, adventure and self-reliance!
Wondering where to start? Check out the Recreation Areas at Blackwater River State Forest, Mud Springs at Welaka State Forest, and Pot Springs at Twin Rivers State Forests.
8. Keep That Hunting Spirit Going All Year
For everything from large game to small frogs, check out our state forest wildlife management areas (WMAs)! Enjoy a primitive hunt with bows and muzzleloaders, or use more modern firearms during general gun season. Learn the year-round habits of game by visiting your local forest often. Find the game trails and local hangouts to make your hunts more successful!
9. Go for a Family Picnic
Relax and renew relationships in nature’s fresh, clean air. Share a meal under the trees or in one of our pavilions. Don’t forget the blankets or lounge chairs. Help the younger generations develop an appreciation of Florida's natural areas.
10. Enjoy Sunrises and Sunsets at Your Favorite Forest
Awaken your senses at Withlacoochee State Forest as you watch the sun slowly rise over one of the forest’s many lakes, ponds or rivers. Camp overnight and wake up to the beautiful sight of the sun peeking over the horizon. As the sun rises, catch the rays reflecting off the water and warming the air around you. Listen as it awakens the wildlife and birdsongs begin.
