The 30 Best Wildlife refuges in usa in Florida

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Hardee Lakes County Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in Bowling Green, Florida. This park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. With its serene lakes and lush greenery, Hardee Lakes County Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can relax and unwind in this peaceful setting, surrounded by the sounds of wildlife and the beauty of the Florida landscape. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or an adventure in the great outdoors, Hardee Lakes County Park is the perfect destination for a day of fun and relaxation.

Little Manatee River State Park, located at 215 Lightfoot Road in Wimauma, Florida, is a hidden gem in Hillsborough County. This park is a nature lover's paradise, with rare ecosystems such as sand pine and oak scrub, oxbow wetlands, and the beautiful Little Manatee River flowing through it. Designated as an Outstanding Florida Water, the river is part of the Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, horseback riding, and camping. The park features a 6.5-mile hiking trail loop in the wilderness area, as well as a 1-mile Oxbow Nature Trail along the main river.

Fish Hawk Nature Preserve is a stunning 1,550 acre park located at 16640 Boyette Road in Riverview, Florida. This tourist attraction is a vital part of the Southeastern Hillsborough County region, providing a crucial link in the protection of the FishHawk Creek riparian corridor. The preserve features a north and south section, with the south section offering amenities such as a basketball court, pavilions, and over 6 miles of hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities, including the majestic osprey, also known as the Fish Hawk. Explore the beauty of nature at Fish Hawk Nature Preserve and experience the wonders of this significant regional habitat corridor.

The Myron and Helen Gibbons Nature Preserve is a serene park and popular tourist attraction located at 13356 Boyette Road in Riverview, Florida, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Florida. With walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the local flora and fauna, the Myron and Helen Gibbons Nature Preserve is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature. Whether you're a local looking for a peaceful retreat or a tourist seeking an authentic Florida experience, this nature preserve is sure to delight and inspire.

Seven Wetlands (Se7en Wetlands) is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 500 West Carter Road in Lakeland, Florida, United States. This peaceful sanctuary is home to seven interconnected wetlands, offering visitors the chance to explore the diverse ecosystems and observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. With scenic walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and educational programs, Seven Wetlands is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or embark on an adventure, Seven Wetlands provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

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.

Alafia River Corridor Nature Preserve - North is a stunning 4,070 acre park located in Plant City, Florida. Situated along the Alafia River, this preserve offers a diverse range of habitats and is home to a variety of wildlife including gopher tortoises, eastern indigo snakes, and American alligators. Visitors can explore the former phosphate mining areas and enjoy the natural beauty of the preserve. With its scenic views and abundant wildlife, Alafia River Corridor Nature Preserve - North is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor 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.

Shamrock Park & Nature Center is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 3900 Shamrock Drive in Venice, Florida, United States. This beautiful park offers visitors the chance to explore lush nature trails, serene waterways, and diverse wildlife habitats. The nature center provides educational programs and exhibits that highlight the unique flora and fauna of the area. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll through nature or a fun family outing, Shamrock Park & Nature Center is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

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.

The Nature Conservancy's Tiger Creek Preserve, located at 674 Pfundstein Road in Babson Park, Florida, is a unique institution dedicated to the conservation of Florida's ancient ecosystems. As one of four campus preserves under TNC Florida’s Center for Conservation Initiatives, Tiger Creek Preserve focuses on education, outreach, research, and land stewardship. Situated on the eastern edge of the Lake Wales Ridge, Tiger Creek Preserve boasts a diverse range of habitats, including hardwood swamps, pine flatwoods, sandhills, and blackwater streams. The preserve is home to a variety of threatened and endangered plant and animal species, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth.

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.

Peace River Preserve is a stunning natural oasis located at 28000 Sandhill Boulevard in Punta Gorda, Florida. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the chance to explore the serene beauty of the Peace River and its surrounding landscapes. With miles of hiking trails, lush forests, and picturesque waterways, Peace River Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to birdwatch, kayak, or simply relax in the peaceful surroundings, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of Peace River Preserve in the heart of sunny Florida.

The Lightsey Family Ranch is a picturesque park located at 545 New Boot Heel Road in Venus, Florida. This sprawling ranch offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the Florida countryside and immerse themselves in nature. With acres of land to explore, visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. The ranch also offers guided tours and educational programs for those looking to learn more about the local flora and fauna. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an outdoor adventure, the Lightsey Family Ranch is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

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.

W.P. Franklin South Recreation Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 1660 South Franklin Lock Road in Alva, Florida, United States. Situated on the Caloosahatchee River next to the WP Franklin Lock and Dam, visitors can enjoy watching boats travel along the Okeechobee Waterway, explore the visitor center exhibits, or simply relax with a picnic lunch. This day use area offers a variety of amenities including a visitor center, boat ramp, volleyball and horseshoe courts, playground, and covered picnic sites. There are also flush toilets and drinking water available for visitors. Two group picnic shelters can be reserved, each equipped with water and electricity, picnic tables, a large charcoal BBQ grill, and space for up to 50 people.

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.

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.

CREW Bird Rookery Swamp Trails is a park and tourist attraction located at 1295 Shady Hollow Boulevard West in Naples, Florida, United States. The institution is dedicated to preserving and protecting the water resources and natural communities of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed. Partnering with organizations such as the South Florida Water Management District and the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, CREW manages over 70,000 acres of land, including the trail systems for visitors to explore. As the largest intact watershed in Southwest Florida, the CREW Trails offer a unique opportunity to witness the changing seasons and diverse wildlife that call this area home. From baby alligators to blooming pine lilies in the fall, to nesting hawks and flycatchers in the spring, there is always something new to see at CREW.

The Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, located at 300 Tower Road in Naples, Florida, is a park and tourist attraction that offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about and explore the natural beauty of Southwest Florida. With interactive exhibits, an art gallery, nature trails, and picnic areas, the center provides hands-on activities for visitors of all ages. Covering 110,000 acres along the coast, the center allows guests to immerse themselves in the diverse ecosystems and wildlife of the region. However, please note that Second Chance Island is closed from March 1st to August 31st, 2024. Additionally, Friends of Rookery Bay has issued an eco-tour operator RFP on March 8th.

The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is a renowned park and tourist attraction located at 1495 Smith Preserve Way in Naples, Florida. This institution is dedicated to preserving and protecting the unique natural environment of Southwest Florida through conservation efforts, education programs, and wildlife rehabilitation. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds, learn about local flora and fauna, and participate in hands-on activities to support the conservation mission. With its stunning scenery and commitment to environmental stewardship, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers.

Naples Botanical Garden is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 4820 Bayshore Drive in Naples, Florida, United States. Visitors can enjoy the annual Naples Flower Show & Garden Market on April 5 & 6, as well as educational beach dune programs at Lowdermilk Park or Naples Pier. The Evenstad Horticulture Campus is a unique tropical growing operation within the Garden, allowing for the enhancement of the 170-acre property and the conservation of tropical plants. Admission prices are $25 for adults, $10 for children aged 4-17, and free for children 3 and under and members. Come explore the natural beauty and educational opportunities at Naples Botanical Garden!

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.

Big Cypress National Preserve, located at 33100 Tamiami Trail East in Ochopee, Florida, is a vast park and tourist attraction dedicated to preserving the unique ecosystem of the Big Cypress Swamp. This preserve plays a crucial role in supporting the health of the neighboring Everglades and the marine estuaries along Florida's southwest coast. Covering over 729,000 acres, Big Cypress National Preserve is home to a diverse range of tropical and temperate plant communities, providing a habitat for a variety of wildlife including the endangered Florida panther. Visitors can explore the preserve through swamp tours, ranger chats, and canoe rendezvous, gaining a deeper understanding of this important ecosystem.

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.

The Shark Valley Visitor Center is a popular tourist attraction and travel agency located at 36000 Southwest 8th Street in Miami, Florida, United States. During the peak visitor season from December to April, parking can be extremely limited and fills up quickly, usually by 10 am. To avoid long entrance station lines and delays, it is recommended to visit on weekdays and arrive before 10 am or after 3 pm. This will also help in finding a place to park easily. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and wildlife at Shark Valley Visitor Center during your visit.

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.

Nine Mile Pond Trail is a popular attraction located within Everglades National Park in Homestead, Florida. This park is America's largest subtropical wilderness and is home to rare and endangered species such as the manatee, American crocodile, and Florida panther. As a World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, the park is a treasure for nature lovers and conservationists alike. Visitors to Nine Mile Pond Trail can enjoy a variety of ranger-led programs and activities, including easy walks, evening talks, hikes, and paddling tours. The park also offers a free boater education course to educate visitors about the unique features of the park's marine waters.