Located about 70 miles west of Key West in Dry Tortugas National Park sits the largest masonry structure in the Western Hemisphere, an abandoned 19th-century fort that was never completed. Fort Jefferson is huge and desolate, but its impressive masonry and tropical surroundings make it so much more than an abandoned More than 60,000 people visit the park every year and enjoy activities such as snorkeling, bird watching, kayaking, saltwater fishing and even camping.
The Breathtaking Small Town State Park in Florida That We Can’t Stop Thinking About
Explore hiking trails, wildlife, and historic CCC-built cabins at Gold Head Branch State Park. Enjoy swimming, fishing, and camping in a scenic natural setting.
I don't know about you, but I love it when a little bit of history is thrown into the mix of my nature trips. Sure, I love a good hike through the wetlands or just sweating it out on an oceanfront trail through the tilting mangrove branches. But when you throw in those little tidbits of history, it really makes that particular place or park shine. Take Mike Roess, Gold Head Branch State Park, as the perfect example. As one of the oldest state parks in Florida, it still remains much of a hidden gem. But maybe after this quick history lesson and a few must-try trail recommendations, you'll add this spot to your list.
Gold Head Branch State Park spans over 2,000 acres of pine forests, marshlands, and sandhill habitats, making it an excellent spot for experiencing Florida's natural diversity. Established in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the small town park has a unique historic charm and an incredibly biodiverse landscape.
Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities here, from hiking and swimming to fishing and canoeing. Speaking of hiking, the park features several hiking trails, including a portion of the 5.44-mile Florida National Scenic Trail, which offers excellent views of the ravine and surrounding ecosystems. Little Lake Johnson is perfect for swimming (no lifeguard on duty!), canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, with bass and bream among the popular catches. The park also rents canoes and kayaks if you don't have your own to bring.
For those interested in wildlife and who brought their cameras, the park is home to gopher tortoises, deer, and a variety of bird species. Keep your eyes peeled as you hike. You never know who is rustling in the treetops or meandering through the long grass.
Fall through spring is the best time to visit, offering cooler temperatures and better wildlife activity. Although visiting during the warmer months is tempting, summer visitors can cool off by swimming in the lake! For anyone who wants to spend more than just the day, camping is available in the form of primitive sites, RV spots, and historic CCC-built cabins that overlook the lake. Park hours are from 8 a.m. to sunset, with an entrance fee of $5 per vehicle.
Have you ever been to Gold Head Branch State Park before? What was your experience during your visit? Let us know in the comments section!
Also, make sure to sign up for an Alltrails Plus membership before you hike! That way, you can get even more information before you start your journey.
This State Park In Florida Is So Little Known, You’ll Practically Have It All To Yourself
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park in Dania Beach offers a unique blend of recreational activities, natural beauty, and family fun despite its smaller size.
When it comes to hidden gems in Florida, oftentimes visitors think the bigger, the better. However, such is not always the case. Take this little-known state park in Dania Beach as the perfect example. Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park is around 310 acres but offers a unique blend of recreational activities, natural beauty, and family fun.
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While you might think that 310 acres for a state park is quite large...in comparison to other parks in Florida (Hello, Everglades, 1.5 million acres) it remains on the smaller side.
However, that doesn’t mean that Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park is lacking in any way. In fact, the size is probably one of the main reasons why you SHOULD visit.
The park is a popular spot for people to swim, fish, shell, boat, bike, picnic, snorkel, and hike - allowing guests to disappear into nature for the afternoon.
Those who visit between November through May are treated to a rare sighting of the endangered beach Jacquemontia, a white-pink flower that doesn’t come around too often.
Birding is also a popular pastime here throughout the year, as guests are treated to a variety of birds who roost, rest, and feed along the sandy shorelines.
Have you ever visited this state park in Florida before? What were some of the fun things you enjoyed while there? Make sure to sound off in the comments section! Or if you’re looking for more information about one of the best hidden gems in Florida, including current fees to enter and hours of operation, then check out the Florida State Parks website.
