Florida’s 175 state parks offer some of the most diverse natural landscapes in the country, from lush springs and white-sand beaches to sprawling pine forests and ancient caverns. Throughout the year, these parks host exciting events, ranging from wildlife festivals and historical reenactments to guided hikes and stargazing nights.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these must-attend events will help you experience the beauty and history of Florida’s award-winning state parks. We’ve also included links for lodging, restaurants, and state park resources to help you plan your perfect trip.
Winter Events (December – February)
First Day Hikes (Statewide – January 1st)
- Where: Various Florida State Parks
- What: Kick off the new year with a guided hike through some of Florida’s most scenic landscapes. Parks like Paynes Prairie Preserve and Myakka River State Park offer ranger-led hikes with opportunities to spot wildlife like bison, deer, and alligators.
- More Info: Florida State Parks First Day Hikes
📍 Best Lodging Nearby:
- Sweetwater Branch Inn – Gainesville – A charming B&B near Paynes Prairie.
🍽 Where to Eat:
- The Yearling Restaurant – A historic Florida cracker-style restaurant in Cross Creek.
Florida Manatee Festival (Crystal River – January)
- Where: Crystal River Preserve State Park
- What: This two-day festival celebrates manatee season, when hundreds of these gentle giants gather in Crystal River’s warm spring waters. Enjoy kayak tours, wildlife exhibits, arts and crafts vendors, and live music.
- More Info: Crystal River Manatee Festival
📍 Best Lodging Nearby:
- Plantation on Crystal River – A riverside resort offering manatee snorkeling tours.
🍽 Where to Eat:
- Peck’s Old Port Cove – A waterfront seafood restaurant specializing in fresh Florida blue crab.
Spring Events (March – May)
Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage (Torreya State Park – April)
- Where: Torreya State Park, North Florida
- What: Spring is wildflower season in Florida’s northern forests, and this event features guided walks showcasing rare blooms like Chapman’s rhododendron and tropical trillium.
- More Info: Torreya State Park
📍 Best Lodging Nearby:
- McFarlin House Bed & Breakfast – A Victorian-era inn in Quincy, FL.
🍽 Where to Eat:
- The Wharf Casual Seafood – A laid-back seafood restaurant in Tallahassee.
Bluegrass Festival (Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center – April)
- Where: Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, White Springs
- What: A weekend of live bluegrass music, traditional crafts, and folk storytelling in one of Florida’s most historic parks.
- More Info: Stephen Foster State Park
📍 Best Lodging Nearby:
- Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park – A campground with cabins and RV sites near the Suwannee River.
🍽 Where to Eat:
- Fat Belly’s BBQ & Grill – A must-visit spot for Southern barbecue.
Summer Events (June – August)
Ichetucknee River Tubing Season (Fort White – June-August)
- Where: Ichetucknee Springs State Park
- What: One of Florida’s most famous summer experiences, tubing down the crystal-clear Ichetucknee River is a refreshing way to escape the heat. Rentals are available on-site.
- More Info: Ichetucknee Springs State Park
📍 Best Lodging Nearby:
- The Lodge at Wakulla Springs – A historic lodge near another famous Florida spring.
🍽 Where to Eat:
- Great Outdoors Restaurant – A riverside restaurant with live music and fresh local fish.
Firefly Viewing (Torreya & Blue Springs State Park – June)
- Where: Torreya State Park & Blue Springs State Park
- What: Fireflies light up the forest in a breathtaking natural display. Special guided night walks are offered.
- More Info: Torreya State Park
📍 Best Lodging Nearby:
- The Alling House Bed & Breakfast – A cozy B&B near Blue Springs.
🍽 Where to Eat:
- Swamp House Grill – A great riverside restaurant with Florida-style seafood.
Fall Events (September – November)
Florida Caverns Festival (Marianna – October)
- Where: Florida Caverns State Park
- What: A unique event featuring cave tours, guided hikes, and local history exhibits. Florida Caverns is the only state park in Florida with public cave tours.
- More Info: Florida Caverns State Park
📍 Best Lodging Nearby:
- Hinson House Bed & Breakfast – A charming historic inn in Marianna.
🍽 Where to Eat:
- Mashawy Grill – A top-rated Mediterranean grill near the caverns.
Apalachicola Seafood Festival (November)
- Where: Apalachicola, FL
- What: This iconic Florida seafood festival features fresh oysters, shrimp, and crab, plus live music and boat races.
- More Info: Apalachicola Seafood Festival
📍 Best Lodging Nearby:
- The Gibson Inn – A historic boutique hotel in downtown Apalachicola.
🍽 Where to Eat:
- Up the Creek Raw Bar – A great spot for fresh oysters and craft beer.
Final Thoughts
Florida’s state parks offer year-round events that highlight the state’s natural beauty, history, and diverse ecosystems. Whether you’re kayaking with manatees, exploring underground caves, or celebrating Florida’s famous seafood, there’s something for everyone.
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