North Florida Things to Do
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Natural North Florida

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Things to Do and Places to Stay can be found by clicking on the buttons above. Click on an area of interest and corresponding activities will appear below the map to provide more information. You may zoom in using the slider on the left side of the map. You may also switch between Satellite View and Map View by clicking the buttons in the upper-right corner of the map. Clicking on a colored icon on the map will pop up a description.

Map of Natural North Florida



Outdoor in Natural North Florida



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  • Alachua Florida

  • Bell Florida

    • Hart Springs Nature Festival
      This event showcases the beauty of nature at Florida springs. Event will include a bird watching tour ( 9:00 sharp), and a native plants and trees tour on our ½ mile boardwalk. The Master Gardeners, Institute of food and Agriculture Science (IFAS), FFA, and 4-H will have exhibits and displays. There will be food, plant, crafts and other vendors. Music and children’s activities, and of course swimming in one of the largest natural springs in Florida.

    • Hart Springs Park
      Welcome to Hart Springs, one of the largest spring-fed swimming areas in the state of Florida. Enjoy camping — from tent to full hookups, picnicking, boating, fishing, swimming, snorkeling, birding, biking and hiking. Access 55 miles of Gilchrist County river shoreline, and enjoy an abundance of refreshing natural springs. Stroll down the half-mile boardwalk and rent canoes, kayaks, tubes of all sizes, bikes, basketball, volleyball and horseshoes. Hart Springs Park and Campground is a family-oriented recreation area, accessible by car and boat.

  • Branford Florida

    • Troy Springs State Park
      Whatever your outdoor interests, you will find something exciting at Troy Springs State Park!

  • Bristol Florida

  • Bronson Florida

    • Black Prong Equestrian Center
      A unique 250-acre facility meticulously developed for the sport and art of all things equestrian. Overnight stay for horses permitted, Stables, Lodging available, Horse trailer parking, Multi-use trails nearby, Fresh water for horses

    • Bronson Blue Springs
      Swim, play, hike, and fish at Bronson Blue Springs.

  • Bronson (Soutwest of) Florida

  • Cedar Key Florida

    • Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve
      Hikers and off-road bicyclists who want to experience a mosaic of Florida habitats will find it on the miles of trails that wind through the park. The shallow waters and numerous creeks near the salt marshes are ideal for canoeing and kayaking.

    • Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge
      Wading birds, shorebirds, fishes, manatees, bald eagles, crabs, and even reptiles are some of the species of wildlife that find suitable habitat on the islands and marshes that make-up Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge.

    • Seahorse Key Lighthouse Open house
      Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge invites you to an openhouse on Seahorse Key Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Seahorse Key is usually closed to the public so don't miss this special annual event.

    • Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park
      The preserve is home to numerous rare, threatened, or endangered plant and animal species and commercially important marine species. Accessible only by boat, this preserve is a favorite of anglers because it boasts both saltwater and freshwater fishing.

  • Chiefland Florida

    • Andrews Wildlife Management Area
      In addition to biking the trails, you can enjoy small, high-quality hunts and excellent fishing along the banks of Suwannee.

    • Manatee Springs State Park
      A first magnitude spring, Manatee Springs discharges an average 100 million gallons of water every day. This water comes from rain that falls on lands within a 40 mile radius from the spring. Geologically the surrounding lands resemble a sponge, with sand and the underlying limestone quickly transferring rainfall into deep caverns that deliver the water to the spring from every direction, but mostly from the South and East. The spring is a source of life for many species of fish, reptiles, mammals, birds and invertebrates. From November through April, manatees use the spring's life-giving waters for warmth. During those months the Suwannee River and Gulf of Mexico waters are colder than the constant 72 degrees of the spring. Popular for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving, the headwaters of the spring are an outstanding year-round experience for people as well. The spring run forms a sparkling stream that meanders through towering cypress, tupelo and other wetland trees to join the Suwannee River. During the summer months, huge prehistoric-looking Gulf Sturgeon can be seen leaping out of the river as they have done for eons. Enjoy the spring run view by canoe/kayak or on foot along our boardwalk. A concession provides beverages, snacks and canoe/kayak rentals. Children can enjoy a playground in the picnic area, where tables, grills and pavilions are available for family fun. Hiking and biking adventures await on the north end trail system. The full-facility campground is surrounded by hardwood hammocks and upland pine habitats. Reserve a canoe or kayak by calling Suwannee River Tours at (352) 490-0909. Located at the end of State Road 320, off U.S. 98, six miles west of Chiefland.

    • Manatee Springs State Park
      Enjoy the spring run view by canoe/kayak or on foot along their boardwalk.

    • Suwannee River Wilderness Trail.
      The Suwannee River Wilderness Trail is a system of hubs and river camps, spaced a convenient day's travel apart, so that visitors can enjoy a lazy day trip or a multi-day adventure on the Suwannee.

  • Dunnellon Florida

    • Goethe State Forest
      Goethe State Forest contains on of the largest tracts of contiguous, old-growth longleaf pine flatwoods in the state. Overnight stay for horses permitted, Horse trailer parking, Fresh water for horses, Multi-use trails ,Hiking trails, Bicycling trails, Wildlife Viewing, Hunting, Primitive camping,

    • North Star Acres
      Guided Horseback Trail Trips...Stall & Camp for Horse & Rider. Ride with veteran horsewoman Roberta Cogswell on guided trips through the unspoiled flatwoods of Goethe State Forest. Trail horses are provided or bring your own.Located on on a 65 acre farm with thoroughbreds, goats, cows etc.

    • TRAILHEAD RANCH
      Trailhead Ranch features real Florida ranch style “fun in the sun” for horse lovers.

  • Fanning Springs Florida

    • Nature Coast State Trail
      Adventure awaits you on the Trail! Don't miss the Suwannee River Bridge near Fanning Springs. Horse Trails, Multi-use trails, Horse trailer parking.

  • Gainesville Florida

    • Aquatic Center
      The Aquatic Center has been serving Gainesville and the surrounding communities for nearly two decades, offering an exciting array of classes and travel.

    • Devils Millhopper Geological State Park
      In the midst of north Florida's sandy terrain and pine forests, a bowl-shaped cavity 120 feet deep leads down to a miniature rain forest. Numerous springs flow out of the walls of the sink into streams that then disappear into a cave at the bottom. Truly a natual wonder!

    • Divers Supply and Water Sports
    • Florida Crane and Nature Festival
      Join the Florida Trail Association and the Alachua Conservation Trust during MLK weekend to celebrate the wintering Sandhill Cranes, endangered Whooping Cranes, wild horses, bison and more than 270 species of birds in Alachua County. Activities include: Discovering more than 150 wintering birds, including the American Bald Eagle Biking the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail Saturday night dinner with a keynote speaker Silent Auction Wildlife and Birding Presentations There is a fee for registration that covers breakfast, lunch, dinner and shuttle service to bird-watching locations.

    • Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail
      Designed for cycling, walking, and horseback riding, the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail State Park is a 16 mile journey that meanders from Boulware Springs Park in Gainesville, through the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park and the Lochloosa Wildlife Management Area and ending in Hawthorne. The trail is an easy ride for most cyclists, with a few gentle hills. There are many opportunities to see wildlife along the way, especially if you take the time to visit La Chua trail in Paynes Prairie.

    • Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
      Picnicking, gift shop, plant nursery. Beautiful manicured and natural gardens, including a large variety of bamboos.

    • Lloyd Bailey's Scuba
      Lloyd Bailey’s Scuba is the largest privately owned scuba and water sports store in North Florida. Lloyd Bailey has taught over 3000 students Basic Open Water.

    • Madonna's Equestrian Academy
      Madonna’s Equestrian Academy is a rustic horse farm, located just north of Gainesville, Florida...

    • Water World Dive Center

  • Gulf Hammock Florida

    • Henry Beck Park
      Open April 1 to September 30 anually, this park has a spring and designated picnic facilities.

  • High Springs Florida

    • Adventure Outpost
      They currently lead kayak and canoe tours on over 40 waterways throughout North Florida.

    • Blue Springs
      Swim in the crystal-clear blue waters , walk the boardwalk to the Santa Fe River, canoe or kayak the spring run, and camp at their fully equipped campground.

    • O'Leno State Park
      Canoeing, fishing, horse trails, nature trails, picnicking, RV camping, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Overnight stay for horses permitted, Primitive Camping, Fresh water for horses, Stables, Corral, Carriage trail, Horse rentals, Horse trails, Multi-use trails

    • O'Leno State Park
      Oleno StatePark is located along the banks of the scenic Santa Fe River, a tributary of the Suwannee River. The park features sinkholes, hardwood hammocks, river swamps, sandhills and a suspension bridge across the river.

    • Poe Springs
      The Gainesville area's largest spring!

    • River Rise State Park
      The Santa Fe River goes underground in O'Leno State Park and reemerges over three miles away in River Rise State Park as a circular pool before resuming its journey to the Suwannee River...

    • Santa Fe Canoe Outpost
      You choose your destination, launch your vessel from their rustic outpost, then have fun paddling down the river. They pick you up and bring you back.

  • Inglis Florida

    • Inglis Island Trails
      The trails offer views of the island’s natural communities which include cypress swamp, pine flatwoods and mixed hardwood hammocks.

    • Withlacoochee Bay Trail / Felburn Park Trailhead
      Bicycling, walking or skating on the paved trail provides numerous opportunities to observe wildlife, picnic or bank fishing along the route.

  • Jennings Florida

    • Jennings Outdoor Resort Campground
      Currently located at the first interchange in Florida (Jennings) as you go south on I-75, this RV Park has the facilities to serve most every need as you travel toward vacation areas in the Sunshine State.

  • Lamont Florida

    • Aucilla River Paddling Trail
      The Aucilla River flows 27 miles through Jefferson, Madison and Taylor Counties.The natural communities found on the Aucilla are Cypress swamps with hardwoods, which are teeming with wildlife. Wood ducks, otter, wild turkey, kingfisher, pileated woodpeckers, beaver, and song birds are common. People have been attracted to the Aucilla River for over 12,000 years. Indians fished and hunted along the river extensively and State archeologists have found a treasure trove of prehistoric records along its shores (note: it is illegal to remove artifacts from Aucilla).

    • Econfina On the Gulf
      Econofina River Resort is located in the “Big Bend” area of Northwestern Florida, which is situated in the middle of a 40 mile stretch of protected coastal habitat, and is one of the few native areas left untouched by development.

    • Econfina River State Park
      Horse trails, boating, boat ramp, canoeing, fishing, nature trails, and picnicking.

  • Live Oak Florida

    • 3rd Annual Fall Paddle Florida Event
      Paddle 123 miles of the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail from the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park to Manatee Springs State Park. Experience paddling on one of Florida's most majestic rivers and camping riverside in parks and campgrounds in the Suwannee, Lafayette, Dixie, Gilchrist and Levy county region. In addition to paddling, hiking, camping and bird watching in Natural North Florida this paddling trip features nightly entertainment. After a day on the river and super under the oaks, paddlers can enjoy some of Florida's finest talent - from bluegrass and blues to Florida history and humor woven into songs, there is something for everyone. Don't be shy, bring your harmonica if you want to play by the campfire after the performance. For more information on the route, daily lunch and camping stops, meals, prices and to register, please visit www.paddleflorida.org or E-mail bill@paddleflorida.org.

    • Suwannee River State Park
      Enjoy a day out on the Historic Suwannee River, or take a leisurely hike along the Big Oak Trail or along the banks of the river on the Lime Sink Trail

    • Twin Rivers State Forest
      Twin Rivers State Forest is located along the banks of the Withlacoochee and Suwannee Rivers. The forest encompasses eastern Madison, western Hamilton, and northwestern Suwannee counties in northern Florida. Overnight stay for horses permitted with special- use permit, Primitive camping, Horse trails, Hiking, Bicycling trails, Canoeing, Fishing.

  • Luraville Florida

    • Peacock Springs State Park
      One of the longest underwater cave systems in the continental United States, about 28,000 feet of underwater passages have been explored and surveyed by cave divers.

  • Madison Florida

    • Four Freedoms Park Madison (Bike Loop Trailhead)
      In the heart of downtown Madison is Four Freedoms Park, home to the Four Freedoms monument. President Franklin D. Roosevelt commissioned the monument in honor of the late Captain Colin P. Kelly, a Madison native and the first U.S. war hero of World War II.

  • Mayo Florida

    • 4th Annual Fall Paddle Florida on the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail
      The adventure begins at Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park north of Live Oak and ends at Manatee Springs State Park near Chiefland with nightly river-side camping along the way. Enjoy paddling 123 miles on the scenic Suwanee River Wilderness Trail with camping riverside each night. For more information or to register visit www.paddleflorida.org or call 352-377-8342.

    • Lafayette Blue Spring State Park
      This state park includes a first magnitude spring that flows from the Suwanee River, campgrounds, and picnic areas.

    • R.O. Ranch Equestrian Park
      Overnight stay for horses permitted, Horse trailer parking, Full facility camping, Primitive Camping, Multi-use trails, Carriage trail

  • Micanopy Florida

    • Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
      Paynes Prairie is biologically, geologically, and historically unique. This park became Florida´s first state preserve in 1971 and is now designated as a National Natural Landmark.

    • Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
      Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park became Florida´s first state preserve in 1971 and is now designated as a National Natural Landmark. Noted artist and naturalist William Bartram called it the great Alachua Savannah when he wrote about his visit to the prairie in 1774.

    • Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
      Paynes Prairie became Florida´s first state preserve in 1971 and is now designated as a National Natural Landmark. Noted artist and naturalist William Bartram called it the great Alachua Savannah when he wrote about his visit to the prairie in 1774. Over 20 distinct biological communities provide a rich array of habitats for wildlife and livestock, including alligators, bison, horses and over 270 species of birds. The preserve has an amazing array of activities available including wildlife viewing, biking, hiking, equestrian trails and camping, both primative and full service camping, and a visitors center to name a few. Paynes Prairie is one of Florida's most unique natural treasures.

  • Monticello Florida

    • Cavallo Farms Horse Farm and Equestrian Center
      Explore the majestic world of equestrian sports and the thrill of horseback riding at cavallo farms. Overnight stay for horses permitted, Horse trailer parking, Stalls, No horse trails but you can ride on their property, Freshwater for horses.

    • Conner Carriages & Occasions at the Bar C Ranch
      Horse trails, Horse trailer parking, Horse rentals, Fresh water for horses, Carriage rides.

    • Monticello Karting & Motor Club
      Their track was especially designed for kart racing with the expressed goal of joining the ranks of the best karting tracks in the world. They are not an amusement park or concession center, although we do offer driving schools in our "track karts".

    • The Painted Pony
      **Beginning May 1, 2010** Overnight stay for horses permitted, Horse trailer parking, Stalls, Access to multiple trails and greenway nearby, Bunkhouse for weekend getaway retreats.

    • Wacissa Springs Livery
      Let Jim Dulack, a certified green guide, help you explore the beautiful Wacissa River. Canoes and kayaks are for rent or bring your own

  • North Gilchrist County Florida

    • Ellie Ray's River Landing
      Fax: (386) 935-4190 Rates: $25-$36.50 Discounts: Good Sam's Club Info: 99 RV sites, camping, pets welcome on leash Amenities: Boat ramp, floating dock, canoes, playground, picnic area, new bath house. Located on the Santa Fe River with beautiful walkway to river.

    • Treehouse on the Santa Fe River
      Step up to view life among the trees, and step above primitive camping in this protected, screened wood-hut.

  • Old Town Florida

    • Gornto Springs
      Also called Guaranto Springs, Gornto Springs is owned by Dixie County. It is a pleasant 2nd magnitude spring just perfect for picnicking.

  • Steinhatchee Florida

    • Hidden Coast Paddling Festival
      The Hidden Coast Paddling Festival ends in quaint Steinhatchee. Join in for guided saltwater paddles, self guided tours and evening events.

    • Hidden Coast Paddling Festival
      The Hidden Coast Paddling Festival ends in quaint Steinhatchee. Join in guided saltwater paddles, selt-guided trip info and evening events

  • Suwannee Florida

    • Suwannee Guides
      Rental of single and double kayaks, canoes, bicycles, and golf carts. Tours: Guided kayak & canoe trips, mountain bike tours, sunset/sunrise tours and family fun trips. Vacation rental available as well.

    • Suwannee Guides
      canoe, kayak, bicycle and golf cart rentals guided boat tours, sunset/sunrise tours

  • Suwannee and Horseshoe Beach Florida

    • Hidden Coast Paddling Festival
      The Hidden Cost Paddling Festival continues in Dixie County with guided river and saltwater paddles, seld tour info and evening evants.

  • Trenton Florida

    • 31st Annual Florida State Fiddlers Convention
      Special guest artist: Multi-Instrumentalist Matt Brown Friday-Sunday, October 14th-16th Weekend and Day Tickets Available, Visit FSFA’s website at www.FloridaFiddler.org. Camping is available and campers can receive discounted event tickets. Call the park for reservations. 352-463-0800

    • Mid-Life Crisis & the Hot Flashes
      Are you ready to Rock N’ Roll? Returning by popular demand, Southern Rock band MID-LIFE CRISIS & THE HOT FLASHES Saturday, November 19th @ 7pm Admission: $2/person, Campers are free! For more information, contact info@ottersprings.com or call 463-0800

    • Trenton Trailhead - Nature Coast State Trail
      Nature Coast State Trail is officially designated as part of Florida’s Statewide System of Greenways and Trails. Traversing Florida's beautiful Nature Coast region, this trail provides an excellent opportunity to experience the Sunshine State "off the beaten path."

  • Wakulla Springs Florida

    • Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
      Home of one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world, this park plays host to an abundance of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, deer, and birds.

  • White Springs Florida

    • 10th Annual Suwannee River Challenge
      Come to White Springs for a special edition of the Suwannee River Challenge. This year you have three choices: the 26 mile Marathon, the 52 mile Challenge or the 100 mile Suwannee River Extreme Challenge – a two-day stage race. For more information and registration go to www.aca1.com or contact race Director Rod Price at (407) 227-5606 or rodbprice@hotmail.com

    • American Canoe Adventures
      They are the premier canoe outfitters on the upper Suwannee River.

    • Big Shoals Public Lands
      This park features the largest whitewater rapids in Florida. Equestrian facilities: Horse trails, Multi-use trails, Horse trailer parking

    • Eagle Lake
      Eagle Lake was created by the phosphate mining process. The land was reclaimed and now is a beautiful lake for all to enjoy.

    • Lang Lake
      Lang Lake was created through the mining of phosphate. The land was reclaimed and now is a beautiful lake for all to enjoy.

    • Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
      The museum features exhibits about Foster's most famous songs and his music can be heard emanating from the park's 97-bell carillon throughout the day.

    • Suwannee Bicycle Association
      The Suwannee Bicycle Association is a non-profit, membership organization formed to promote environmental awareness and family fitness through bicycling and other outdoor activities in the Suwannee River region. Located in White Springs, Florida, the organization seeks to help people obtain a greater understanding and appreciation of natural ecosystems, history and cultural heritage of the Suwannee River Region. The Suwannee Bicycle Association is affiliated with Adventure Cycling Association, League of American Bicyclists, International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA), and NORBA. SBA supports the efforts of Hostelling International. SBA conducts educational trips, bicycling, hiking and canoeing in the region, maintains a headquarters building with a library of resource materials and maps. SBA publishes and distributes educational brochures and pamphlets about the region. SBA also helps develop and maintain public bicycle, hiking, and canoe trails and helps establish environmental interpretation facilities along them.

  • Williston Florida