Last Updated on October 18, 2024 by JJ
Florida may be famous for its beaches and theme parks, but the state is also home to some of the most beautiful wilderness areas and backpacking trails in the Southeast. With its diverse landscapes, from pine forests to expansive wetlands, Florida offers backpackers a unique and immersive outdoor experience. Here’s a guide to some of the best backpacking trails in Florida, complete with nearby accommodations, dining options, and links to help you plan an unforgettable journey into the wild.
Florida Trail (Ocala National Forest)
The
Florida Trail
is one of the most iconic long-distance hiking trails in the state, stretching over 1,000 miles from the Everglades to the Panhandle. A particularly scenic portion runs through
Ocala National Forest
, offering backpackers a diverse landscape of pine forests, prairies, and crystal-clear springs. This trail is a favorite for its varied terrain, serene ponds, and lush greenery, and it’s ideal for multi-day hikes, especially in the cooler winter months.
Stay in the nearby town of Ocala at the
Hilton Ocala
for a touch of comfort before or after your trek, or camp within the forest at
Juniper Springs Campground
for an immersive wilderness experience. After a day on the trail, refuel at
Big Lee’s – Serious About Barbecue
for hearty Southern barbecue, or enjoy a casual meal at
The Mojo Grill & Catering
.
Black Bear Wilderness Loop (Black Bear Wilderness Area)
Black Bear Wilderness Loop
near Sanford is a challenging 7.1-mile loop that takes hikers deep into a rugged swamp environment. The boardwalks and trails wind through lush wetlands, cypress trees, and marshes, offering unique views of Florida’s wildlife, including alligators, wading birds, and, if you’re lucky, a black bear sighting. This loop is ideal for adventurous backpackers who enjoy traversing muddy paths and boardwalks.
Stay in nearby Sanford at
Comfort Inn & Suites
for budget-friendly accommodations, or camp out at
Wekiva Falls RV Resort
for a more nature-centric stay. Grab a post-hike meal at
Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Café
for German-inspired dishes, or try
The District Eatery & Tap Room
for Southern-inspired fare in a lively setting.
Big Cypress National Preserve (Florida Trail – Big Cypress Segment)
The
Big Cypress National Preserve
offers one of the most remote and challenging segments of the
Florida Trail
, winding through a mix of cypress swamps, pine uplands, and freshwater prairies. Backpackers here can expect to navigate muddy waters and rugged terrain, making it a true adventure for experienced hikers. The preserve is teeming with wildlife, including alligators, panthers, and an array of bird species, giving visitors a genuine taste of Florida’s wilderness.
Stay nearby at
Ivey House Everglades Adventure Hotel
in Everglades City for comfortable accommodations, or camp within the preserve at
Burns Lake Campground
for a back-to-nature experience. After your trek, enjoy local seafood at
Camellia Street Grill
or visit
City Seafood
for fresh catches and scenic waterfront dining.
Torreya State Park
Nestled in the Florida Panhandle,
Torreya State Park
is renowned for its rugged terrain and dramatic elevation changes. The park’s 14-mile loop trail is perfect for backpackers looking for a challenging hike with beautiful views of the Apalachicola River. With dense hardwood forests, unique plant species, and steep inclines, Torreya’s landscape is unlike any other in Florida, offering an experience closer to Appalachian hiking than typical Florida terrain.
Stay nearby in the town of Bristol at
Apalachicola River Inn
, or camp in Torreya’s
Primitive Campsites
for an overnight in the heart of nature. Refuel with a hearty meal at
Apalachicola Seafood Grill
for classic Southern seafood or enjoy local cuisine at
The Station Raw Bar
.
Myakka River State Park
For a more leisurely backpacking experience,
Myakka River State Park
near Sarasota offers a mix of trails that wind through prairies, hammocks, and wetlands. The 39-mile Myakka Trail takes hikers through diverse ecosystems and past Florida’s iconic Myakka River, providing plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. The park’s wilderness camping sites are perfect for those who want an overnight adventure in a beautiful setting.
Stay nearby in Sarasota at the
Carlisle Inn Sarasota
, a charming hotel with a laid-back vibe, or choose the
Sun Outdoors Sarasota
campground for a more rustic stay. After hiking, enjoy a meal at
Owen’s Fish Camp
, known for its fresh seafood and Southern fare, or visit
Indigenous
for an innovative, locally-sourced dining experience.
Tips for Backpacking in Florida’s Wilderness
Check for Seasonal Conditions
: Florida’s trails can be affected by flooding, especially during the rainy season. Always check trail conditions and closures before heading out.
Bring Mosquito Protection
: Many of Florida’s trails pass through wetlands, so pack insect repellent and wear long sleeves when possible.
Stay Hydrated
: Florida’s warm climate makes dehydration a risk, so carry plenty of water, especially on longer trails.
Prepare for Wildlife Encounters
: Florida’s wilderness is home to alligators, snakes, and other wildlife. Stay aware and maintain a respectful distance.
From the rugged landscapes of Torreya to the wetlands of Big Cypress, Florida’s backpacking trails offer an adventure for every outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy hike or an experienced backpacker seeking a challenge, Florida’s diverse wilderness provides a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature and explore the state’s hidden wilds.
