The Best State Parks to Visit in Central Florida During the Summer

When it comes to finding fun and exciting things to do in Central Florida during the summer there is plenty to choose from. You could choose Disney World or Universal Studios or you could fight the crowds at places like Daytona Beach or New Smyrna Beach. But I want to show you a few places I consider the best places to visit on a lazy summer weekend that aren't always that crowded, and where you might just see some amazing wild life.

Blue Springs State Park

At Blue Springs State Park you can enjoy floating down the St. John's River in an inner tube or go diving in the under water caves that go deep into the earth. This is one of my favorite places to visit at any time of the year, but especially during Manatee season and summer. Often during the summer months Blue Springs can reach it capacity of people allowed in at one time, so you may want to get there early.

Located at 2100 West French Avenue in Orange City, Florida, you shouldn't have too much trouble finding the park (it's located at the very end of West French Ave.) and they have 2 large parking areas for car and some spots for motor homes. The park is open 365 days a year (unless otherwise posted) and is open from 8AM to Sunset. Admission to the park is $5 for the whole day and there are cabins and camping spots available throughout the park if you want to stay overnight.

You can picnic here in the picnic huts that are around the main office area or you can throw a blanket down by the river or in the open field area in front of the Thursby Family House. The house is not open to visitors but you can still look inside it from the windows surrounding the house. There are also 35 miles of biking and hiking trails all along the river with beautiful views all over the place. You may even catch a Manatee if the season is right. They are very beautiful creatures and watching them swim is a lot of fun. You might also enjoy the summer activities that include a nature cruise on the St. John's River or guided kayak and canoe trips along the river.

For more information call 1-386-775-3663

Wekiwa Springs State Park