Florida's Hidden Green Treasures

Florida is famous for its theme parks and beaches, but it also has a lot of protected areas. About 67% of southern Florida is covered by national and state parks. That's around 3.5 million acres of land and water south of Lake Okeechobee. Most people don't realize this when they visit Orlando or the coasts.

Exploring Nature

If you want to explore nature instead of theme parks, Miami and Fort Lauderdale are great starting points. You can reach many parks within an hour's drive. But remember, the wet season from May to November also brings mosquitoes. So, plan accordingly.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a must-visit. It's the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. and a World Heritage Site. Shark Valley, about 30 miles west of Miami, is a popular entrance. Here, you can walk, bike, or take a tram tour. The guides are great at spotting alligators and birds. They also explain how freshwater and saltwater mix in the area. Don't miss the observation tower for a stunning view.

Big Cypress National Preserve

Big Cypress National Preserve is right next to the Everglades. It's bigger than Rhode Island and has five different ecosystems. Unlike national parks, you can hunt, graze cattle, and use off-road vehicles here. The Oasis Visitor Center offers tours and camping. It's also an International Dark Sky area, perfect for stargazing.

Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park

Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is Florida's largest state park. It protects unique plants and animals. The Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk is a great way to explore the swamp. For boaters, East River offers a scenic route through mangroves. And if you like hiking, Janes Memorial Scenic Drive gives access to many trails.