Florida beyond beaches and theme parks:

With an impressive 175 sites to explore within the Florida State Parks system, you might be wondering where to start. Here are the most one-of-a-kind Florida state parks (and where to stay nearby) with unusual attractions and features that make them

worthy travel adventures on any Florida family vacation Sinkholes occur when acidic groundwater dissolves limestone over a period of time and causes the roof of a cavity to eventually collapse. The sinkhole at this Florida state park has been attracting observers since the 1880s, and it’s easy to see why—all the vegetation growing on the walls gives the sinkhole a rainforest feel, and the tall trees surrounding it make the park a great place to escape the Florida heat.

You can explore this Florida state park on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback via more than 100 miles of multi-use trails, or take a guided buggy tour for an elevated view of the prairie.

Opened in August 1935, the 9,000-acre Highlands Hammock is one of Florida's first state parks and it's home to more rare and endemic species than any other state park in Florida. Bring your binoculars and camera in case you’re lucky enough to spot a gopher tortoise, Florida panther, black bear, or cardinal air plant as you wander under the shady tree canopy