National and State Parks in Florida
National parks in Florida protect wetlands, coral reef environments and remote islands. Everglades, Biscayne and Dry Tortugas offer three different ways to explore southern Florida, from roadside walks and paddling to boat journeys beyond the mainland.
State parks in Florida add spring-fed rivers, beaches, forest trails and camping across a much wider area. Use the map and listing to find parks near your base, compare water-based and land-based outings, and plan a trip around the activities you most want to experience.
How many parks in Florida you can find on Traveler Map?
- national memorials: 4
- national monuments: 2
- national parks: 3
- national preserves: 2
- national seashores: 2
- state parks: 159
Compare Florida national parks by access
Florida has three national parks, all in the southern part of the state. The most useful distinction is how you will explore them. Driving to a visitor center is not the same as reaching the islands, reefs or backcountry that may be the reason for your trip.
- Everglades National Park: Choose it for wetland landscapes, wildlife watching and a mix of walks, drives and water-based activities. Decide which area you want to visit before choosing accommodation, because different entrances serve different parts of the park.
- Biscayne National Park: A marine-focused choice near Miami and Homestead. Arrange an appropriate boat or guided activity if you want to experience the islands and reef environments beyond the mainland shoreline.
- Dry Tortugas National Park: Plan around transport from the Florida Keys for a visit to Fort Jefferson and the surrounding marine landscape. Access is by boat or seaplane, so transport availability should anchor the itinerary.
The NPS Florida directory also includes Big Cypress National Preserve, national seashores and historic places. They add worthwhile options without all having the National Park designation.
Choose a state park for springs or coastal scenery
Florida state parks can shape an entire holiday rather than simply fill the gaps between national parks. A spring-fed river visit in the north of the state and a beach stay in the Keys involve different travel plans, equipment and booking needs.
Ichetucknee Springs State Park near Fort White is a starting point for a spring-fed river outing. Check which launches and activities are operating before arranging tubing or paddling. The official Ichetucknee Springs page lists current notices and access details.
Myakka River State Park near Sarasota offers wetlands, river scenery and a different view of Florida from the beach. Compare it with coastal destinations near your accommodation when choosing between wildlife-focused time inland and an oceanfront day.
When to visit Florida parks
For a southern Florida trip centered on walking and wildlife, compare the cooler, drier part of the year with the hotter, wetter months. For boating, snorkeling or an island journey, wind and sea conditions can matter as much as the season. A sunny mainland forecast does not guarantee suitable conditions offshore.
Check local weather and park alerts close to departure. Keep another activity available if your booked boat trip cannot operate, especially when it is the main reason for a short visit.
Book transport and camping separately
Start with anything that limits access: an island transfer, a guided water activity or a specific campsite. Confirm whether equipment and park admission are included in the booking. State park admission and federal recreation passes have different coverage. Keep your trip within one region if time is short; a northern springs visit and a Dry Tortugas excursion are separate parts of a Florida journey, not neighboring day trips.