The 30 Best Natural habitats in Florida

Highlands Hammock State Park, located at 5931 Hammock Road in Sebring, Florida, is a popular tourist attraction and park known for its diverse plant and animal life. The park is home to more rare and endemic species than any other Florida State Park, making it a unique and important conservation area. Visitors can explore the park's nine trails, including an elevated boardwalk through a cypress swamp, where they may encounter wildlife such as Florida panthers, black bears, deer, alligators, and various bird species. The park also offers a 3-mile bike loop and tram rides for a more leisurely experience.

Nye Jordan Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 800 East Stuart Street in Bartow, Florida, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, scenic walking paths, and a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in the peaceful surroundings of the park. Nye Jordan Park is the perfect spot for nature lovers and those looking to unwind and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Lakeland Highlands Scrub is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 6998 Lakeland Highlands Road in Lakeland, Florida, United States. This unique institution is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Florida scrub ecosystem. With scenic hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape, Lakeland Highlands Scrub is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Central Florida. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist passing through, this hidden gem is sure to leave you feeling inspired and rejuvenated.

Butterfly Tampa is a captivating tourist attraction located at 4113 Henderson Boulevard in Tampa, Florida. This enchanting institution is home to a colorful array of butterflies from around the world, providing visitors with a unique and immersive experience in the beauty of nature. Wander through lush gardens and observe these delicate creatures up close as they flutter and dance among the flowers. Butterfly Tampa offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and families alike. Come and be mesmerized by the magic of these graceful insects at Butterfly Tampa.

Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park is a stunning natural oasis located at 4335 Firetower Road in Haines City, Florida, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction that spans over 8,000 acres of diverse habitats including scrub, sandhill, and flatwoods, as well as 65 acres of submerged land. Visitors to the park can explore 6 miles of hiking trails, 7 miles of equestrian trails, and enjoy fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is home to a variety of rare plants and protected animal species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Sherwood L. Stokes Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 7598 Lake Marion Creek Road in Haines City, Florida, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Florida, with lush greenery, serene waterways, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're looking to relax in nature, go for a hike, or simply enjoy a peaceful day out, Sherwood L. Stokes Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Trimble Park is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 5802 Trimble Park Road in Mount Dora, Florida, United States. Nestled in the heart of nature, this park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its lush greenery, serene lake views, and abundance of wildlife, Trimble Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic by the water, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, Trimble Park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Trimble Park today!

The Venice Area Audubon Society is a renowned institution located on Annex Road in Venice, Florida, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the beautiful natural surroundings and observe a variety of bird species in their native habitats. The society is dedicated to conservation efforts and educating the public about the importance of protecting our environment. With its serene atmosphere and stunning wildlife, the Venice Area Audubon Society is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to connect with nature.

Manasota Scrub Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 2695 Bridge Street in Englewood, Florida, United States. This unique preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse ecosystem of scrub habitats, pine flatwoods, and wetlands. With miles of hiking trails, boardwalks, and observation platforms, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of this protected area. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including gopher tortoises, scrub jays, and a variety of bird species. Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature walk or a chance to spot some rare wildlife, Manasota Scrub Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Stump Pass Beach State Park is a hidden gem located at the southwest corner of Charlotte County in Englewood, Florida. This mile-long beach is a popular destination for visitors looking to relax, swim, sunbathe, and search for seashells and shark teeth. Anglers also frequent the surf in search of prize catches. The park features a hiking trail that passes through five distinct natural communities, providing habitat for a variety of wildlife species. Covered picnic tables are located along the trail, offering a place to rest and enjoy a meal. Visitors can also launch a kayak and explore the two islands located just east of the park.

Lake June-in-Winter Scrub Preserve State Park is a peaceful 845-acre park located at 630 Daffodil Street in Lake Placid, Florida. This park serves as a sanctuary for the endangered sand scrub ecosystem and is home to some of Florida's rarest plant and animal species, such as the Florida scrub-jay and gopher tortoise. Visitors to the park can enjoy bird-watching, nature study, hiking along white sand fire lanes, and fishing from the lakeshore. The park also offers a half-mile nature trail, a picnic area with shelter, and the opportunity to launch canoes or kayaks onto the lake.

Hope Park is a charming and serene tourist attraction located at 8161 Lombra Avenue in North Port, Florida, United States. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with lush greenery, scenic walking paths, and tranquil seating areas. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, or simply taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Hope Park is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

KICCO Wildlife Management Area is a sprawling park and tourist attraction located at State Road 60 in River Ranch, Florida, United States. This beautiful wildlife management area offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of Florida's natural habitats. With miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, KICCO Wildlife Management Area provides a peaceful and educational escape into nature for visitors of all ages. Come experience the beauty and serenity of this unique natural gem in the heart of Florida.

Oscar Scherer State Park, located at 1843 South Tamiami Trail in Osprey, Florida, is a popular tourist attraction and park offering a variety of recreational activities for visitors. The park is currently experiencing some closures due to American Bald Eagle nesting season, with sections of the Red Trail closed until further notice. Additionally, Campground restroom No. 2 is closed for construction, limiting available campsites. Despite its location surrounded by urban areas, Oscar Scherer State Park serves as a peaceful oasis for nature lovers, offering 15 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. The park is home to the endangered Florida Scrub Jay and provides habitat for bald eagles in the winter. Lake Osprey is a popular spot for fishing and swimming, while South Creek attracts anglers, canoers, and kayakers.

The Conservation Foundation Gulf Coast, located at 400 Palmetto Avenue in Osprey, Florida, is a park dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of Southwest Florida. As we celebrate our 20th Anniversary, we invite you to join us at our Conservation Community Luncheon on April 9, 2024, where we will debut a special video series highlighting our efforts to protect the land for future generations. Together, we can ensure that the human and natural worlds of Southwest Florida flourish harmoniously. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this important mission. Contact us at P.O. Box 902400 Palmetto Ave, Osprey, FL 34229-0902 or email info@conservationfoundation.com for more information. Phone: 941-918-2100.

Deer Prairie Creek Preserve South is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 10201 South Tamiami Trail in North Port, Florida, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Florida's landscape, with sprawling grasslands, lush forests, and serene waterways. Explore the trails, spot native wildlife such as deer and birds, and enjoy a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're a nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing day out, Deer Prairie Creek Preserve South is the perfect destination for a memorable and rejuvenating experience.

The Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 10941 Burnt Store Road in Punta Gorda, Florida. This institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse ecosystems of the Charlotte Harbor area, including wetlands, mangroves, and upland habitats. With miles of hiking trails, boardwalks, and educational exhibits, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region while also gaining a greater understanding of the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to connect with the natural world.

Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary is a captivating park and tourist attraction located at 41660 Horseshoe Road in Punta Gorda, Florida, United States. This sanctuary is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and preservation of exotic animals, providing a safe and natural habitat for them to thrive. Visitors can observe a wide variety of wildlife including big cats, primates, birds, and more, while learning about conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these majestic creatures. With educational programs, guided tours, and interactive experiences, Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and support the well-being of endangered species.

The Fred C. Babcock/Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area is a sprawling park located at 29200 Tuckers Grade in Punta Gorda, Florida. This wildlife management area is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the diverse natural habitats of Southwest Florida. The park features a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and reptiles, making it a great destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing in this beautiful and serene setting. Additionally, the park offers educational programs and guided tours for those looking to learn more about the local ecosystem. With its scenic trails and abundant wildlife, the Fred C. Babcock/Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Florida's natural landscapes.

Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park is a stunning natural oasis located at 12301 Burnt Store Road in Punta Gorda, Florida. This expansive park spans over 45,387 acres and is home to more than 100 miles of pristine shoreline along Charlotte Harbor in Charlotte and Lee counties. As the third largest Florida State Park, it offers a diverse range of natural habitats including mangrove forests, marshes, scrub habitats, and pine flatwoods. Visitors to Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, paddling, and wildlife observation. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with opportunities to spot wading birds, manatees, dolphins, and other wildlife along the shallow waters fringed by mangroves.

Manatee Park, located at 10901 Palm Beach Boulevard in Fort Myers, Florida, is a popular tourist attraction and park known for its seasonal visits from non-captive Florida manatees. These gentle creatures seek out the warm waters of the park's canal during the cooler winter months when the Gulf of Mexico temperature drops below 68°F. The park offers a public kayak launch, as well as kayak rentals through the Manatee Kayaking Company. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, pavilion and amphitheater rentals, and educational programs led by Volunteer Interpretive Naturalists. While manatees are typically present from late December to February, they are not sighted during the warmer summer months. The park, which opened in 1996, is maintained through a cooperative effort of partners and sponsors, including Florida Power & Light and the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau. With over 200,000 visitors annually, Manatee Park provides a unique opportunity to observe and learn about these fascinating marine mammals in their natural habitat. Please note that as of March 12, 2024, manatees are no longer being sighted at the park due to rising Gulf temperatures.

Caloosahatchee Regional Park is a beautiful natural oasis located at 19130 North River Road in Alva, Florida. This park, managed by Lee County Parks & Recreation, offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy. With 768 acres of pine flatwoods, scrub oak, cypress swamps, and oak hammocks, the park is a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Visitors can explore over 20 miles of scenic trails that wind through the park's diverse ecosystems. The north side of the park is designated for mountain biking and horseback riding, while the south side features hiking trails, a fishing pier, a floating dock, and a primitive campground. Campsites are available for families, groups, and equestrians, with affordable rates for overnight stays.

Archbold Biological Station, located at 123 Main Drive in Venus, Florida, is a renowned park and tourist attraction dedicated to conservation action. The institution recently honored Dr. Betsie Rothermel with a Lifetime Service Award from the Gopher Tortoise Council. The station's efforts focus on saving imperiled wildlife, such as the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow, throughout the Headwaters of the Everglades and beyond. At Archbold, rare plants, animals, and ecosystems in the heart of Florida are protected through pioneering sustainability and conservation science. The institution also works on connecting large landscapes and wildlife corridors, identifying the importance of expansive areas for wildlife and rural economies. With scientific rigor and long-term data, Archbold monitors and acts on rising threats to ecosystems and the people that depend on them.

Fisheating Creek Wildlife Management Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1585 US Highway 27 in Venus, Florida. This wildlife management area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including various bird species, alligators, and other wildlife. Visitors can explore the beautiful natural surroundings through hiking trails, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The institution also offers educational programs and guided tours for visitors to learn more about the local ecosystem. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing day out in nature, Fisheating Creek Wildlife Management Area is the perfect destination to experience the beauty of Florida's wildlife.

Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 6265 Keri Road in Felda, Florida, United States. This expansive state forest offers visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse range of habitats, including wetlands, cypress swamps, and pine flatwoods. The forest is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, alligators, and deer, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and wildlife viewing in this peaceful and scenic natural setting. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Hickory Hammock Wildlife Management Area is a sprawling park and wildlife sanctuary located at 4900 McArthur Road in Basinger, Florida. This beautiful institution is a popular tourist attraction and is home to a diverse array of native wildlife species. Visitors can explore the lush landscapes, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints throughout the area. The park also features a small zoo where guests can observe and learn about various animals in a natural setting. Whether you're a nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Hickory Hammock Wildlife Management Area offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 12301 Burnt Store Rd in Punta Gorda, Florida, United States. This preserve is a haven for nature lovers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and wildlife. Visitors can explore the mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and shallow waters that make up this unique ecosystem. With its diverse marine life and pristine waters, Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Florida's natural environment.

The Tom Allen Memorial Butterfly House is a stunning park located at 1372 Rose Garden Road in Cape Coral, Florida. This enchanting institution is dedicated to celebrating the beauty and wonder of butterflies, providing a serene and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Stroll through lush gardens filled with colorful flowers and fluttering butterflies, learn about their life cycle and habitat, and even witness live butterfly releases. The Tom Allen Memorial Butterfly House is a peaceful oasis where nature lovers can connect with the delicate and fascinating world of butterflies.

Caloosahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, located in North Fort Myers, Florida, is a serene and protected park that is closed to the public in order to preserve and protect its delicate habitat for wildlife. The refuge works alongside other organizations to conserve and enhance the natural environment for the benefit of the American people. Please note that the refuge does not guarantee that linked websites comply with accessibility requirements and does not endorse or favor any specific sites.

Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park North Cape Flats Trail is a stunning natural oasis located in Cape Coral, Florida. Covering an impressive 45,387 acres, this park is the third largest in the state of Florida and offers visitors a chance to explore over 100 miles of pristine shoreline along Charlotte Harbor. Visitors to the park can partake in a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, paddling, and wildlife observation. The park boasts diverse natural habitats including mangrove forests, marshes, scrublands, and pine flatwoods, making it a haven for a wide range of plant and animal species. Birdwatchers will especially enjoy the chance to spot wading birds, manatees, dolphins, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.