Table of Contents
Updated October 2024
Green forests, enchanting springs, tannic rivers, and prairie preserves abound along Florida’s Nature Coast, making it ideal for a quiet getaway. A trip to Florida’s Nature Coast is a must for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone seeking relaxation. It’s an exceptional and beautiful part of Florida that offers something for everyone. A road trip along the nature coast gives visitors a chance to glimpse into history seeing what “Old Florida” really is.
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The Florida Nature Coast is a region along the northern Gulf of Mexico in the state of Florida. It stretches from Pasco County in the south to Wakulla County in the north and includes portions of the following counties: Citrus, Hernando, Levy, Dixie, Taylor, and Jefferson. Many of the trails comprise the Great Florida Birding Trail.
Some of the top destinations on the Nature Coast include Crystal River, where visitors can swim with manatees and explore the beautiful springs; Cedar Key, a quaint coastal town with great seafood and scenic views; and Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, a park with a wildlife rehabilitation center and an underwater observatory.
Making Memories on Florida’s Nature Coast
If you’re driving from other parts of Florida or neighboring states, the Nature Coast can be easily reached via major highways such as I-75 or US-19. You can also take scenic routes such as the Tamiami Trail (US-41) or the Coastal Highway (US-98) to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
The closest major airports to the Nature Coast are Tampa International Airport (TPA) and Orlando International Airport (MCO). From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to your destination.
Nature Coast State Trail The Ultimate Hike in Florida
The Nature Coast State Trail is a 32-mile long paved trail that runs through Florida’s Gulf Coast region, between the towns of Cross City and Trenton. This trail passes through a variety of landscapes, including pine forests, wetlands, and prairies, and offers scenic views of the surrounding natural beauty. The Nature Coast State Trail is also part of the larger Florida Greenways and Trails System, which is a network of trails and green spaces throughout the state.
The trail is open to hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders, and provides a special opportunity to explore the area’s wildlife and natural habitats. Along the way, visitors can stop at several trailheads, which offer amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and parking.
Hiking Reminder: wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and be prepared for Florida’s hot/humid weather.
A Rare Gem on the Nature Coast: St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge
About 20 miles south of Tallahassee. St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge is in St. Marks, Florida. It was established in 1931 to protect migratory birds and other wildlife in the area. Visitors can explore the refuge on foot, by bike, or by car, and may see wildlife such as bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons. As nature lovers, there were a variety of habitats, including salt marshes, pine forests, and freshwater impoundments to see.
The refuge i a great place to go hiking, with several trails and boardwalks that provide visitors with access to different parts of the refuge. One of the best trails is the Lighthouse Road Trail. This trail is a 2.4-mile out-and-back hike that took us through pine forests and salt marshes to the St. Marks Lighthouse. The lighthouse was built in 1831 to guide ships into the St. Marks River. It served as an important navigational aid for ships traveling to and from Apalachee Bay. The lighthouse is open for tours on certain days of the week, and visitors can climb the tower to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. The climb to the top of the lighthouse tower is not for the faint of heart, as it requires navigating a series of steep stairs and ladders.
Hiking Tails St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge
Although we hiked n the spring we brought plenty of water, insect repellent, and sunscreen.. Here are some of the hiking options we took advantage of in the refuge:
- Tower Pond Trail – This 0.6-mile loop trail takes visitors through pine forests and past Tower Pond, where you may see a variety of birds and other wildlife.
- Wakulla Beach Trail – This 0.5-mile trail takes visitors to Wakulla Beach, where you can enjoy views of the Gulf of Mexico and search for seashells along the shore.
- Stoney Bayou Trail – This 5.5-mile out-and-back trail takes visitors through salt marshes and along the Gulf Coast, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
- Woody Pond Trail – This 1.5-mile loop trail takes visitors through pine forests and past Woody Pond, where you may see alligators, turtles, and a variety of birds.
Experience The Extraordinary Springs of the Nature Coast
Many of these springs not only provide important habitats for wildlife but also offer opportunities for recreation, such as swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and tubing. Manatees inhabit several of the natural springs in Florida, particularly during the winter months when the water temperature drops in the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean. Blue Springs State Park is most renown, however the nature coast springs have their own populations. The manatees find refuge in the warm and constant temperature of the springs, as they are vulnerable to cold stress and can become ill or even die if they are exposed to prolonged periods of cold water.
Preview into the Florida’s Beautiful Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
Wakulla Springs State Park, which is about 14 miles south of Tallahassee, Florida. The park covers approximately 6,000 acres. It is home to one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. With a depth of over 300 feet and an average discharge of over 250 million gallons of water per day. A Spanish lodge circa 1930s by Edward Ball during Florida’s Land boom years. Taking a tour of the lodge gives visitors a timeless glimpse into the glory days of the past. The beautiful period furnishings and elegant construction are worth seeing. They listed the lodge on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
Ancient cypress trees that enhance the park’s natural beauty surround Wakulla State Park. It is easy to see why this was the ideal location for early films such as Tarzan’s Secret Treasure (1941) and Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954). To get a better perspective of the park, take a 45 minute guided riverboat tour. The spring and its surrounding waterways are teeming with wildlife, including alligators, river otters and wading birds. During the winter months, when the water temperature drops in the Gulf of Mexico, the spring attracts manatees.
Besides water activities, Wakulla Springs State Park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and horseback riding.
Phenomenal Fanning Springs State Park: Where Nature and Tranquility Unite
The main attraction of Fanning Springs State Park is its natural spring, which flows at a constant 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. This spring pool is a designated swimming area and is popular with visitors who come to enjoy the cool water and scenic surroundings. The park also offers a diving platform and underwater caves for experienced divers.
Fanning Springs State Park is open year-round and offers a variety of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and a concession stand. The park is a popular destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape the heat and enjoy the natural beauty of Florida. Click here for a park map.
Fort Fanning Historic Park- A Seminole War Fort on the Suwannee
Lt. Colonel Alexander Campbell Fanning (1788-1846) served in the Florida militia during the Second Seminole War and is the inspiration for Fort Fanning Historic Park Built in 1838 during the Second Seminole War, they strategically placed it on the banks of the Suwannee River. The fort served as a supply depot for troops in the area. Today, visitors can explore the replica fort and learn about the history of the area.
Fort Fanning Historic Park is a great destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re interested in learning about the area’s military history or just want to enjoy the natural beauty of the Suwannee River, the park is definitely worth a visit.
Both parks have picnic areas, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The parks are home to a variety of native Florida wildlife, including turtles, fish, and various species of birds and mammals.
Peek into the Florida’s Scenic Springs at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Ancient Native American settlements can be found in the Homosassa area dating back thousands of years. Several sawmills and fish camps operated along the river in the late 19th century, making the area a center for commercial fishing and timber harvesting. During the early 20th century, the springs attracted tourists drawn to the clear, blue-green water, the natural beauty, and the abundant wildlife. It wasn’t until 1940 that the first glass-bottom boat tours began operating in the springs, offering visitors an opportunity to view the underwater world up close.
In 1964, Homosassa Springs was acquired by the state of Florida and designated as a state park. The park’s 210 acres were developed to showcase the first-magnitude spring and protect its diverse wildlife. In the 1980s, the park underwent a major restoration effort to improve water quality and restore the natural balance of the ecosystem. This included efforts to remove invasive species and reintroduce native plants and animals. They renamed the park in 1989 in honor of Ellie Schiller, who was instrumental in the park’s development and success.
Discover the wonders of Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Today. the Fish Bowl at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is one of the park’s most popular attractions. There, visitors can see various species of fish and other aquatic creatures in their natural habitat. Moreover, they provide boat tours, wildlife encounters, and educational programs. Also in the park is a rehabilitation center for injured manatees, which provides an important service to these wonderful creatures.
Educational programs and exhibits at the park provide visitors with a chance to learn about Florida’s natural history and the importance of wildlife conservation. The Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is open all year round, attracting visitors from around the globe to enjoy its rare natural heritage.
Glance into the Florida’s Magnificent Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
The name “Weeki Wachee” comes from the Seminole language and means “little spring” or “winding river.” The spring is a popular tourist attraction, known for its crystal clear water and underwater mermaid shows. It is home to one of the deepest naturally formed underwater caves in the United States, with a depth of over 400 feet.
The Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the source of the Weeki Wachee River. It features an array of recreational activities, including swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. Visitors can also watch the famous mermaid shows, which have been performed at the park since the 1940s. The mermaid performers wear fish tails and perform underwater ballets and other routines.
In addition to the mermaid shows and water activities, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park also offers nature trails, wildlife exhibits, and educational programs on the area’s history and ecology. The park is home to a variety of native Florida wildlife.
Weeki Wachee is a unique natural wonder that has captivated visitors for generations. Its crystal clear water, natural beauty, and mermaid shows make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Florida.
Step into the enchanting world of Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge
Founded in 1941, Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area. It covers approximately 31,000 acres of coastal marshes, swamps, and uplands along the Gulf of Mexico. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages the refuge. It is an important habitat for a wide variety of wildlife species, including manatees, bald eagles, and various species of fish, reptiles, and birds.
One of the unique features of The Chaz is its system of spring-fed rivers and creeks that flow through the area. These waterways provide important habitat for various aquatic species. They are also popular destinations for recreational activities such as kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
In addition to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge also serves an important conservation role. The refuge works to protect and restore the natural ecosystems in the area, which helps to preserve biodiversity and maintain healthy populations of wildlife.
Crystal River Archaeological State Park: Unveiling the Mysteries of Florida’s Ancient Past
An unusual destination for anyone interested in Native American culture and history and outdoor recreation, Crystal River Archaeological State Park is a Florida State Park. A pre-Columbian Native American site dating back over 2,500 years is in the park. There are six earthen mounds at Crystal River Indian Mounds, the tallest of which stands at 28 feet.
In the region, indigenous peoples created primordial mounds for ceremonies and burials. Various Native American cultures occupied the site, including the Deptford, Swift Creek, and Weeden Island cultures.
Credit: Steven Martin CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
Apart from the mounds, the park has a museum featuring exhibits on Native American culture and history. Our walk through the visitor center included learning about ancient tools and techniques, as well as the local flora and fauna. Additionally, recreational activities include fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. A picnic area and hiking trails are also available for visitors.
Escape the Crowds: Embark on a Journey of Exploration at Fort Cooper State Park
Fort Cooper State Park can be found near Inverness, Florida. The park covers over 700 acres and contains remnants of a historic military fort. We picked up our free guidebook on the Florida Seminole Wars Heritage Trail at the ranger station. Every day, there are exciting ranger programs offered by the park.
A colonel named James Cooper founded the fort. In 1836, during the Second Seminole War, the first fort was constructed. While the Second Seminole War was raging, the base was used to protect injured and sick soldiers. To illustrate the fort’s significance in the conflict, a replica stands in its place today.
We trekked the Seminole Heritage Trail. It is a 1.5-mile trail that loops around scenic Lake Holathlikaha. Four interpretive displays tell the story of the Seminole people. A startled flock of quail in the underbrush was the only sound we heard this day.. In the park, easy to moderate self-guided trails meander through hammocks and sand hill natural communities. These include the Dogwood Trail, the Fort Site Trail, and the Sandhill Loop Trail.
Leave no Trace: It’s also important to stay on designated trails. Always follow park rules to help protect the preserve’s fragile ecosystems.
Exploring Nature’s Playground: Inglis Dam & Island Recreation Area–Cross Florida Greenway
There is a dam and a series of islands in this recreation area on the Withlacoochee River, which provide great opportunities for outdoor activities. A concrete gravity dam constructed in 1942, Inglis Dam crosses the Withlacoochee River. In order to build a navigable waterway across Florida, the Cross Florida Barge Canal project included the construction of the dam. Fish and other aquatic life benefit from the dam, which keeps water levels in the river under control.
Fishing, birdwatching, and hiking are all available on the islands surrounding the dam. Consider kayaking or walking around the islands if you have the chance. Freshwater fish such as bass, catfish, and panfish were our favorite species to catch.
The recreation area also features a picnic area with tables and grills, as well as restrooms and a playground. The area is open year-round and is a popular spot for family outings and outdoor recreation.
Unveiling Florida’s Industrial Past @ Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park
There are ruins of a 19th-century sugar plantation on 26 acres of land at this Florida State Park in Homosassa. A visit to Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park offers an insight into Florida’s past. It’s a great place to learn about the state’s history and natural environment, as well as to enjoy outdoor recreation.
A Florida politician and business owner named David Levy Yulee built the sugar mill in the 1850s. An important part of the local economy was the mill’s ability to process sugarcane from the surrounding plantation.
At the park, visitors can explore the sugar mill ruins and learn about the sugar industry in Florida’s history. It provides an insight into the daily lives of the workers who lived and worked on the plantation through interpretive displays and guided tours.
A playground, hiking trails, picnic areas, and picnic areas are also at the park. Forest trails lead through a scenic forest where visitors can spot birds, reptiles, and mammals.
Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge: Preserving Nature’s Haven on the Suwannee River
A total of 53,000 acres are protected by the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge, which is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It was established in 1979 to protect the Lower Suwannee River, its wildlife, and ecologically sensitive habitat. If you’re into the REAL old Florida, then you will definitely catch glimpses of it here. The refuge’s visitor center offers exhibits, educational programs, and a bookstore, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn more about the area’s natural and cultural history.
The Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge is renowned for its scenic beauty, with pristine wilderness areas, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic rock formations. The area’s winding rivers and diverse ecosystems make it a truly exceptional and captivating landscape. A kayaker’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a beginner, there are sections of the river that can accommodate your skill level and provide a memorable adventure.
Note: Depending on where you plan to launch your kayak and how long you plan to stay on the river, you may need to have a permit. Permits are available from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Among the wildlife found at the refuge are river otters, alligators, deer, and a variety of birds. In addition to providing critical habitat for threatened and endangered species such as the West Indian manatee and the wood stork, it is an important stopover site for migrating birds.
Potts Preserve Wildlife Management Area: A Hidden Gem for Nature Enthusiasts
Citrus County’s Potts Preserve is an 8,300-acre nature preserve on CR-581 about 9-miles northeast of US-41. Sandhills, wetlands, and longleaf pine forests are among the habitats on the preserve, which provides habitat for a wide range of wildlife. In the early 1990s, Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) to protect groundwater recharge gained the land.
There are hiking trails, equestrian paths, birdwatching areas, and wildlife viewing areas. The preserve has over 30-miles of trails that wind through the different habitats. Visitors can see a variety of plant and animal species along the way. Trails on the western edge (Dee River Road) of the park are ventures through sandhills, pine forests, upland terrain. Whereas the eastern portion (Turner Camp Road) along the Withlacoochee River is wetlands and shady cypress hammock. The river access trail parking is off North Hooty Point Road. This is a 2-mile birding trail that follows the Withlacoochee River. The trail features several boardwalks that cross over streams and wetland areas. The preserve also has a nice fishing pier and several places where you can launch your canoe and kayak.
Final Thoughts on Florida Nature Coast Destinations
Florida’s Nature Coast is home to some of the sunshine states most remarkable natural landscapes, including pristine beaches, crystal-clear springs, and dense forests. Visitors can explore these natural wonders through hiking, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
Throughout the Nature Coast, you’ll find a laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals who are proud of their community’s heritage and natural resources. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience the beauty of Old Florida.
What is your favorite place to go on Florida’s Nature Coast? Have you been anywhere on this list? Where do you want to go on your next Florida Nature Coast road trip?
