Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens
Location: 4990 NE 180th Ave Williston, FL 32696
Hours of Operation: Monday- Sunday 9:30am to 5pm
Family Experience: Cedar Lakes is majestic and breathtaking. The walking trail went through the garden. The family enjoyed seeing the fish. The garden has a pool area and two hammocks. You get to stand under one of the small waterfalls. My family enjoyed the walk around the garden and seeing the waterfalls.
Note: Hours of operation may vary. Last admission is at 4:45pm. Do not feed the animals. Pay at the office. Groupon codes. Watch your step. Venders.
Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest
Location: 6265 Keri Rd Felda, FL 33930
Phone #: 863-612-0776
Family Experience: My children displayed considerable excitement at the sight of three alligators and other wildlife. The park offers a camping area, shooting range, hiking trail, and more. It is an attractive destination for a family nature outing. My children helped their father set up the tent, a beneficial learning opportunity. We also acquired a helicopter for my son to pilot above the treetops. Each camping area has its own secluded spot, shielded by trees. However, the roads are quite narrow, requiring vehicles to pull over to accommodate oncoming traffic.
Note: Bring Bug spray, online admissions, and please drive safely.
Fellowship Park
Location: 2110 Chiquita Blvd S Cape Coral, FL 33991
Phone #: 239-772-5683
Hours of Operation: Sunday-Saturday 8am-7pm
Family Experience: The park's vastness is immediately impressive, inspiring wonder. My daughter has a natural inclination towards climbing, whereas my son delights in sliding down the pole. The park offers diverse attractions, such as a basketball area, splash zone, swings, climbing structures, and more. Unfortunately, our visit was during the Covid pandemic, so we couldn't utilize the splash area. I strongly encourage a family outing.
Notes: The park has a coffee shop with food and drinks for the parents and for the kids. You can also buy the churches tee shirt, which is really cute.
Koreshan State Park
Location: 3800 Corkscrew Rd Estero, FL 33928
Phone #: 239-992-0311
Hours of Operation: Sunday- Saturday 8am- Sunset
Family Experience: The tour was remarkable, delivering a detailed account of the land's history. The interior of the buildings is astonishingly old yet remarkably well-maintained. My son took great pleasure in the playground, especially the chance to engage in a race with his aunt and sister. The nearby bathrooms were immaculately maintained. We intend to go kayaking during our next visit. The state park also features camping facilities, with rates listed on their website. Additionally, a farmers' market is held every Sunday.
Notes: Parking is $5 per vehicle; Historic Settlement is open from 8am- 5pm and the tour is $10pp.
Lakes Park:
Location: 7330 Gladiolus Dr, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Phone #: 239-533-7575
Family Experience: This park is an ideal destination for families, featuring a varied playground and a train ride with miniature houses modeled after local cities. We kindly request that visitors refrain from shaking the train to avoid derailment. The co-located train museum and diverse model trains held great appeal for my son. Additional facilities include a bike trail, fitness center, fishing, and more.
Notes: Parking is $1 an hour or $5 for all day
Train ride is $5 for 6 years old and older;
under 6 years old is free. (May Change)
Centennial Park
Location: 2000 W Frist St Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone #: 239-321-7524
Hours of Operation: Sunday- Saturday 6am to 10:30pm
Family Experience: Located in Downtown Fort Myers, the park has been a new addition since 2023. My son takes great pleasure in climbing to the top and sliding down the wave-like slides, with me by his side. My daughter, on the other hand, enjoys running around, playing with friends, and bonding with her brother. Parents are invited to climb to the top with their child, and the slide is a thrilling experience. Be sure to try the orange slide, which offers a unique up-and-down motion. The park offers a wide array of activities for children, including swings, rope climbing, and a tire swing.
Notes: Free parking, located in the Downtown Fort Myers (May Change)
Big Cypress National Preserve
Location: 33100 Tamiami Trail E Ochopee, FL 34141
Phone #: 239-695-2000
Family Experience: Big Cypress National Preserve offers a distinctive sightseeing experience, characterized by its numerous swamps, kayaking venues, pull-over viewpoints, trails, and a family-oriented drive. My husband has a particular fondness for alligator sightings, and a specific trail provides optimal viewing opportunities. The preserve also features ample parking areas for family picnics. Additionally, swamp buggy and boat tours are available to further explore the swamp ecosystem.
Notes: Due to its vast size, Big Cypress National Preserve requires considerable driving. In the absence of a map, visiting the welcome center is necessary for orientation. Regrettably, we found the welcome center closed during our visit, leading us to discover trails through random driving. Moreover, applying insect repellent is a must when strolling near water bodies. It is also important not to feed the alligators.
Baker Park
Location: 50 Riverside Cir Naples, FL 34102
Phone #: 239-213-7120
Hours of Operation: Sunday-Saturday 6am to 10pm
Family Experience: The play splash pad served as the initial point of interest for my children, requiring the provision of a towel. Although my daughter exhibited fear regarding the outdoor fitness equipment, she ultimately found pleasure in utilizing the slide. The aesthetic appeal of the location is noteworthy, and I strongly recommend a visit, given the park's diverse offerings, including a playground, boat dock, and bike path. I intend to return and indulge in the paddle swan ride.
Notes: Parking is free (May Change)
Freedom Park
Location: 1515 Golden Gate Pkwy Naples, FL
Hours of Operation: 8am to 7pm
Family Experience: Freedom Park features a compact walking trail with a boardwalk, allowing for fishing with catch-and-release requirements. Picnic tables are provided for family meals, and the scenic views make it an ideal spot for a run. Its small size fosters a relaxing atmosphere.
Notes: Parking Fee
Myakka River State Park
Location: 13208 State Rd 72 Sarasota, FL
Phone #: 941-361-6511
Hours of Operation: Sunday- Saturday
8am- 7:30pm
Family Experience: The park offered a picturesque view, although some trees appeared to be damaged by fire. We observed a large number of alligators, which could be viewed at close proximity. The park also features handicap parking, party facilities, and various aquatic activities such as boating, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Furthermore, hikers and bicyclists can explore extensive trails and backroads. However, caution is advised due to the presence of alligators that can easily approach. I would not recommend camping at this location due to the roaming alligators.
Notes: Parking is $6 (may change)
Ridgewood Park
Location: 6572 Ridgewood Dr Naples, FL
Family Experience: Ridgewood Park boasts a compact walking trail, playground, pond, picnic area, and distinctive tree, offering ample opportunities for photography. Although its parking lot is easily overlooked, the park's hidden location adds to its charm.
Notes: No parking fee
Oscar Scherer State Park
Location: 1843 S Tamiami Trail Ospery, FL 34229
Website: floridastateparks.org
Family Experience: During our visit, we appreciated the opportunity to view turtles and explore the walking trail, accompanied by a compact playground for kids. The trail network consists of four distinct routes, two of which are sandy. My son was initially hesitant due to the trails' length, but ultimately found them rewarding. To mitigate the risk of getting lost, directional indicators are provided. The lake features a scenic bridge and picnic tables, and guests are welcome to bring leashed dogs. We had the pleasure of playing with a dog belonging to another park visitor.
Notes: Fishing, Camping, Hiking, Birding, Geo-Seeking, paddling, Picnic, Roller Blading, Snorkeling, Swimming, tours, etc.
Caloosahatchee Regional Park
Location: 19130 N River Rd Alva, FL 33920
Website: leegov.com
Family Experience: Caloosahatchee Park offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities like fishing, camping, and hiking, featuring a short trail with scenic river views and passing boats. Although the long bridge was closed during our visit, we observed various boats navigating the waterway. Be prepared for muddy conditions after rainfall. Informative signs highlighted the local wildlife, including fish and shells. We plan to return for another visit.
Note: Parking $1 an hour or $5 a day (price may vary) Camping, fishing, hiking, kayaking, amphitheater, bicycling,
Big Corkscrew Island Regional Park
Location: 810 39th Ave NE Naples, FL 34120
Family Experience: The park offers a wide array of amenities, rendering it a worthwhile destination. On-site facilities encompass a tennis field, soccer field, playground, pool area, basketball court, and performance theater, among others. We enjoyed playing on the playground, especially the obstacle course and castle with its slide. The pool area showcases substantial waterslides and an excellent children's water play space. However, rain and cold temperatures curtailed our pool visit. We anticipate exploring the pool and additional activities during our next Naples trip.
Notes: There is a pool fee to get in.
Treetop Trekking
Location: 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail Miami, FL
Phone #: 321-277-7310
Hours Operation: Tuesday Closed
The Lift Adventure Park
Location: 17362 Old Dixie Hwy Hudson, FL
Phone #: 727-569-6472
Lettuce Lake Regional Park
Location: 6920 East Fletcher Ave Tampa, FL
Phone #: 813-987-6204
Family Experience: After a wonderful morning, we decided to take a nice walk under the nice Florida weather. Lettuce Lake Park caught our eye with their amazing boardwalk, but sadly the boardwalk was closed. The scenery was still breath taking. When we return, we hope to get to see the boardwalk.
Notes: The park is only expecting cash
Nona Adventures Playground
Location: 14086 Centerline Dr Orlando, FL
Phone #: 407-313-2907
Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park Zip Line
Location: 7625 Sinclair Rd Kissimmee, FL
Phone #: 407-390-9999
Hillsborough River State Park
Location: 15402 US-301, Thonotosassa, FL 33592
Phone #: 813-688-9500
Family Experience: The state park provides a range of recreational activities, including walking trails, kayaking, biking, a cafe, and a sizeable pool. We had a nice camping spot. Securing your food is vital to prevent wildlife visits. Picnic spots are plentiful. Children's playgrounds are available. The ranger station sells ice and firewood, with cash as the only accepted payment method.
Notes: Parking is $6 (price may vary)
Tibet-Bulter Nature Preserve
Location: 8777 Winter Garden Vineland Rd
Orlando, FL 32836
Everglades National Park
Location: Everglades City, FL
Phone #: 305-242-7700
Florida Caverns State Park
Location: 3345 Caverns Rd Marianna, FL 32446
Phone #: 850-482-1228
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Location: 1800 Wekiwa Cir Apopka, FL 32712
Phone #: 407-553-4383
Sliver Springs State Park
Location: 5656 E Springs Blvd Sliver Springs, FL
Phone #: 352-261-5840
Hours of Operations: Monday- Sunday 8am- 8:30pm
Family Experience: We embark on a journey to Silver Springs State Park for a rejuvenating and serene day. We took a leisurely stroll down there, enjoying the scenic walking path. They offer exhilarating activities, such as kayaking, and paddle tours.
Note: Hours of operations may vary
Circle B Bar Reserve
Location: 4399 Winter Lake Rd Lakeland, FL
Phone #: 863-534-7377
Kelly Park
Location: 400E Kelly Park Rd Apopka, FL 32712
Phone #: 407-254-1902
Lake Louisa State Park
Location: 7305 US HWY 27 Clermont, FL 34714
Phone #: 352-384-3969
Rock Springs Run
Location: 30601 County Rd 433 Sorrento, FL
Phone #: 407-553-4383
Little River Springs
Location: 24891 105th Ln O'Brien, FL 32071
Phone #: 386-362-3004
Bayfront Park Recreation Center
Location: 4052 Gulf of Mexico Dr Longboat Key, FL
Phone #: 941-316-1999
Collier-Seminole State Park
Location: 20200 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, FL 34114
Phone #: 239-394-3397
Family Experience: At the state park, visitors can find a campground, canoe launch, hiking trails, picnic area, playground for children, and water go-karting. My husband and I greatly enjoyed our water go-karting adventure.
Notes: The cost to get in is $5 (price may change). You can go online to order tickets to the go carts on the water, canoeing, and kayaking.
Rotary Park
Location: 5505 Rose Garden Rd Cape Coral, FL
Phone #: 239-549-4606
Family Experience: My sister and I undertook a short trip to Rotary Park, where the playground presented a range of engaging activities, including swings, rock climbing, rope climbing, and slides. The park's infrastructure includes trails, a butterfly house, a fitness center, and a central facility. Moreover, the park coordinates events tailored to families, such as the Halloween celebration we attended, which offered trunk-or-treat, ice cream, popcorn, and cotton candy. A memorable moment from our visit was reaching the top of a tower, affording a stunning view of Cape Coral.
Notes: The dog park is a decent size for $20 a month.