Florida State Parks

Posted on : 17-03-2010 | By : florida | In : Florida Attractions, Florida Days Out

Tags: families, quiet day out

0

This year is the 75^th anniversary of the Florida State parks and there will be even more reason to visit as they put on special events to mark this milestone.

There are now 160 state parks in Florida but this is just a taster of the selection.

Blue Spring Park is a designated Manatee refuge and is their winter home thanks to the hot springs that are at a constant 73 F. During mid November through March you can see these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. The rest of the year you can swim or snorkel in the crystal clear water. There are tours of the St Johns River and picnic areas and a hiking trail. You have seen them at Sea World but now you can see the Manatees in the wild – please note that swimming with the Manatees is not allowed and all activity in the water is suspended to enable them to enjoy their winter refuge.

Lake Louisa State Park is a short drive from Orlando, this park is noted for its six beautiful lakes, rolling hills, and scenic landscapes. Lake Louisa is the largest in a chain of 13 lakes connected by the Palatlakaha River, which is designated as an Outstanding Florida Waterway. Lake Louisa, Dixie Lake, and Hammond Lake, the park’s most accessible lakes, provide access for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Anglers can fish in four of the park’s six lakes. More than 15 miles of horse trails are available for equestrians. For hikers and backpackers, the park has over 20 miles of hiking trails with excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Dixie Lake has a fishing pier, canoe/kayak launch, and a picnic pavilion. Lake Louisa State Park is located just seven miles south of State Road 50 in Clermont on U.S. 27.

De Leon State Park. In the early 1800s, settlers built sugar and cotton plantations.But by the 1880s the springs had become a winter resort, and tourists were promised “a fountain of youth impregnated with a deliciously healthy combination of soda and sulphur.” The swimming area is adjacent to a beautiful, shady picnic ground. Canoe, kayak and paddleboat rentals are available for a paddling tour of the spring and spring run. De Leon Springs flows into the Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge where canoeists and kayakers can explore 18,000 acres of lakes, creeks and marshes. At The Old Spanish Sugar Mill Restaurant, guests can make their own pancakes at the table. You just buy a jug of batter choose your toppings and make as many as you like. Great fun for all the family.

All these parks represent great value for money – there is an entrance fee but it is per car so for 2-8 people it costs $5 or $6 -at these parks. An absolute bargain and a chance for your pocket to take a rest – unless of course you decide to take full advantage of the facilities and paddle your way through the real Florida.

by Jean of the 4 bed Moorgate Villa in Highgate Park, Florida

Link To This Article