The 30 Best Wildlife refuge parks in Florida

530 results found

Higel Marine Park is a beautiful waterfront park located at 1330 Tarpon Center Drive in Venice, Florida, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and is a great spot for picnicking, fishing, boating, and birdwatching. Visitors can also enjoy walking along the scenic boardwalk, exploring the mangrove forests, and spotting dolphins and manatees in the water. With its serene atmosphere and diverse wildlife, Higel Marine Park is the perfect place to relax and connect with nature.

Knight Trail Park is a picturesque and serene park located at 3445 Rustic Road in Nokomis, Florida. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area with its lush greenery, tranquil walking trails, and scenic views. The park is a perfect spot for outdoor activities such as picnicking, bird watching, and fishing. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning surroundings, Knight Trail Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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.

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.

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.

Located at 1 Wildlife Drive in Sanibel, Florida, the "Ding" Darling Refuge Tram Tour is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature enthusiasts. Join us for an adventure of a lifetime on our tram tours every Tuesday and Thursday at 10am and 1pm (reservations recommended). Explore the beauty of Tarpon Bay on our kayak tours, available Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday at 10am (reservations required). Unfortunately, due to damages caused by Hurricane Ian, our Nature & Sealife Cruise, Touch Tanks, Evening Cruises, and Breakfast Cruise are currently unavailable. However, rentals for paddle boards, kayaks, and pontoon boats are still available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

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.

Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, located at 12085 SR 29 South in Immokalee, Florida, is a vital sanctuary dedicated to the protection of the endangered Florida Panther and its natural habitat. While most of the refuge is not open to the public, there are still opportunities to appreciate the beauty and importance of this area. Situated within a network of protected lands in South Florida, the refuge plays a crucial role in preserving the wildlife corridor for the Florida Panther. It is surrounded by other conservation areas like Big Cypress National Preserve, Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve, and Picayune Strand State Forest.

J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1 Wildlife Drive in Sanibel, Florida, United States. This refuge is a haven for nature lovers, offering a unique opportunity to observe a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. Visitors can explore the beautiful scenery, take guided tours, and learn about the importance of conservation efforts in preserving the delicate ecosystem. With its diverse array of bird species, mangrove forests, and pristine waters, J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of nature up close.

Serenity Walk Park is a tranquil oasis located at 8962 Collier Boulevard in Naples, Florida. This peaceful park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. Visitors can admire the lush greenery, colorful flowers, and serene ponds as they explore the well-maintained walking paths. Serenity Walk Park is a popular tourist attraction for those looking to unwind and connect with nature in the heart of Southwest Florida.

Located at 137 Coast Line Drive in Copeland, Florida, the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers. As the largest state park in Florida, Fakahatchee is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species that are unique to this area. Visitors to the park can expect a focus on preserving the natural character of the area, with limited facilities and activities available to ensure a true wilderness experience. The park is divided into four main use areas, including the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk, East River, Jones Grade lakes, and Janes Memorial Scenic Drive.

The John G. and Susan H. Dupuis Jr. Wildlife and Environmental Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 23500 Southwest Kanner Highway in Canal Point, Florida, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of the region. Visitors can explore the area and observe a wide variety of animals in their natural habitats, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its lush landscapes and educational opportunities, the Dupuis Wildlife and Environmental Area is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Florida's natural environment.

Kirby Storter Roadside Park is a must-stop tourist attraction located at 48900 Tamiami Trail East in Ochopee, Florida. This park offers a welcome break for travelers looking to stretch their legs and explore the natural beauty of the Big Cypress area. Named after Kirby Storter, a member of a pioneering family in the region, the park features a one-mile boardwalk trail that takes visitors through a cypress swamp and sawgrass prairie habitat. Visitors can enjoy shaded picnic areas, a vault toilet, and the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including alligators, birds, reptiles, and mammals. The highlight of the trail is the overlook at a gator hole, where you may catch a glimpse of these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Don't forget your camera, as the boardwalk offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Gator Park is a unique institution located in Miami, Florida, United States, at 24050 Southwest 8th Street. It is a combination of a food park, restaurant, tourist attraction, and travel agency all in one. Visitors can enjoy delicious food, explore the park's beautiful surroundings, and even book tours and travel packages. One of the main highlights of Gator Park is the opportunity to see and interact with live alligators in their natural habitat. It is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists looking for a fun and memorable experience in Miami.

Everglades National Park, located in Florida, United States, is America's largest subtropical wilderness and a must-visit tourist attraction. The park is home to rare and endangered species such as the manatee, American crocodile, and Florida panther, making it a vital habitat for wildlife conservation. Designated as a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, and Wetland of International Importance, Everglades National Park is a specially protected area under the Cartagena Treaty. Visitors can explore the park's diverse ecosystems and learn about its rich biodiversity through ranger-led programs, tours offered by park partners, and concessions.

Southern Glades Wildlife and Environmental Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Homestead, Florida, United States. This institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of the area. With a focus on environmental conservation and education, Southern Glades features a variety of native flora and fauna, as well as interactive exhibits and educational programs. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, located in Key Largo, Florida, is a unique and captivating tourist attraction. As the country's first undersea park, it offers visitors a stunning glimpse into the underwater world. With colorful coral reefs and a diverse array of marine life, the park spans an impressive 70 nautical square miles. Visitors can experience the beauty of the park through glass-bottom boat tours, scuba diving, snorkeling, canoeing, and kayaking. Fishing is also permitted in designated areas. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are short trails through tropical hammocks, beach areas for picnicking and swimming, and a visitor center with saltwater aquariums and nature videos.

Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park is a peaceful oasis located in Jacksonville, Florida, United States. Nestled between the beaches and the city, this park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature and explore the beauty of the pine flatwoods that protect the water quality of the Nassau and St. Johns rivers. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, from the threatened American alligator to the endangered wood stork, making it an important refuge for birds and other animals. Visitors can enjoy 15 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, with connections to the trail systems of adjacent city preserves for even more exploration opportunities.

Burrowing Owl Park is a charming and captivating tourist attraction located at 2655 Sherwood Forest Boulevard in Greenacres, Florida. This park is dedicated to the preservation and protection of the unique and endangered burrowing owl species. Visitors can enjoy observing these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat, as well as learn more about their behaviors and importance to the local ecosystem through educational exhibits and guided tours. The park also offers beautiful walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, bird lover, or simply looking for a peaceful and scenic outdoor experience, Burrowing Owl Park is a must-visit destination in South Florida.

John D. MacArthur Beach State Park is a unique coastal and tropical hammock located at 10900 Jack Nicklaus Drive in North Palm Beach, Florida. This barrier island is home to rare and endangered native plant species, making it a biological treasure. Visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, surfing, and snorkeling at the beach, while birdwatchers can spot herons, pelicans, terns, sandpipers, and gulls. Anglers can fish in the lagoon by wading or kayaking, as well as from non-swimming areas of the beach. The park's nature center provides educational information about the diverse ecosystem of the area. John D. MacArthur Beach State Park is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilde Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 1701 West 53rd Terrace in Hialeah, Florida. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, walking paths, and beautiful landscaping. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and unwind in the tranquil surroundings. Wilde Park is the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon with family and friends, making memories that will last a lifetime.

Escambia River State Wildlife Management Area is a beautiful park located in Milton, Florida, United States. This institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area, with a focus on wildlife conservation and management. The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, making it a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this serene and peaceful environment. The Escambia River State Wildlife Management Area is a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with nature and experience the beauty of Florida's wildlife.

Perdido River Wildlife Management Area is a sprawling park and zoo located at 9 West 9 Mile Road in Pensacola, Florida, United States. This institution is dedicated to the conservation and preservation of local wildlife and offers visitors the opportunity to observe and learn about a variety of species in their natural habitat. With scenic walking trails, informative exhibits, and interactive experiences, Perdido River Wildlife Management Area is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come explore the beauty and diversity of Florida's wildlife at this unique institution.

Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge is a park located at 3051 Cloptons Circle in Navarre, Florida, United States. This institution is dedicated to the rehabilitation and conservation of wildlife in the Emerald Coast region. Visitors can explore the park and learn about the various species of animals that call this area home. The refuge offers educational programs and opportunities for the public to get involved in wildlife conservation efforts. It is a peaceful and educational destination for nature lovers of all ages.

East Perdido Key State Park, located in Pensacola, Florida, is a stunning natural oasis with white sand beaches and rolling dunes covered in sea oats. For just $3 per vehicle, visitors can enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, and surf fishing along the beautiful coastline. The park features boardwalks that lead from the parking lot to the beach, allowing visitors to access the shoreline without harming the delicate dunes and beach vegetation. Covered picnic tables overlooking the beach provide the perfect spot for family outings and picnics.

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is a stunning natural oasis located at 7525 West County Highway 30A in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. The park is named for its majestic dunes that resemble the sails of a ship, overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. These white quartz dunes create a unique coastal ecosystem with freshwater dune lakes that are home to a variety of aquatic wildlife. Visitors to Topsail Hill can explore old-growth pine forests, sandy scrubland, dunes, and wetlands, where they may encounter some of the 13 imperiled species that call this park home. Keep an eye out for the rare Choctawhatchee beach mouse and other fascinating creatures like pitcher plants.

Located in Cape San Blas, Florida, the T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park offers a Boat Ramp and Kayak Access for visitors to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area. Effective Oct. 25, 2023, the Shady Pines campground has opened at the park, providing a great accommodation option for those looking to stay overnight. Stretching 20 miles into the Gulf of Mexico, the St. Joseph Peninsula is a wildlife haven with sandy white beaches, tall dunes, and marsh areas. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including beach nesting birds, sea turtles, and the endangered St. Andrews beach mouse.

The Apalachicola River Wildlife and Environmental Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 2172 Lakegrove Road in Wewahitchka, Florida, United States. This institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of the area. With its expansive river views, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, the Apalachicola River Wildlife and Environmental Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or simply taking in the peaceful surroundings, this institution provides a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.