Nature lovers will appreciate the unique natural desolation that makes Anclote Key so special. This island off the coast of Tarpon Springs is a four-mile stretch of Florida beach that has not been overdeveloped or commercialized and still retains its stunning natural beauty. Offering such natural attractions as several different types of bird species, the island is open for day use and on the north end you'll find an excellent place to enjoy overnight camping. You can get to this outdoor paradise courtesy of a 10-minute boat ride from the mainland.
Boyd Hill Nature Park offers you a chance to spend some time outdoors and encounter some of the area's wildlife without venturing too far from civilization. This impressive nature preserve is located south of St. Petersburg and spreads out over 245 acres of terrain that includes marshlands, lake shores, and forests. There are also several boardwalks and nature trails to discover. Special tours and nighttime hikes are offered, in addition to the popular kid's day camps.
The whole family will love visiting Fort De Soto Park, a sprawling 900-acre county preserve. The kids will absolutely love getting up close to the various bird life, sea life and plant life that all make up the natural and one-of-a-kind tapestry that is Fort De Soto Park. Additionally, the beach at Fort De Soto has been regarded as one of the top beaches in the country. Don't miss visiting the historic fort, plus the excellent camping, fishing and playground areas that all offer fun and adventure for the whole family.
Brooker Creek is one of the top parks in the St. Petersburg area. Visitors truly enjoy experiencing wildlife like tortoises, wild turkey, white-tailed deer and river otters in their natural environments. Also, the sprawling trails at the park will challenge even the most in-shape walkers and runners. But most of all, nature lovers will appreciate this outdoor area as it resembles Florida almost exactly as it was 150 years ago.
Want to spend a day at the beach without fighting the crowds? Then make Sand Key Park your destination for the day. These relatively quiet beach surroundings are as beautiful as they are relaxing. Beachcombers, surfers, and sun worshipers all enjoy the natural amenities of Sand Key, but the man-made amenities like picnic tables, restrooms and lifeguard stations are quite nice, as well.
St. Petersburg's Sawgrass Lake Park offers the relaxing and the wild all in the same place. Relax as you stroll leisurely through one of the area's most charming park areas that features over 400 acres of swamps, boardwalks and beautiful outdoor views. The wild element is everywhere, though, as gators, heron and other creatures are just a few examples of the wildlife that makes its home here. And, to get an even more expansive view of this park, take some time to head up to the observation tower for a truly spectacular view of it all.
Nature and outdoor enthusiasts flock to Weedon Island Preserve located in Tampa's beautiful St. Petersburg. Go ahead, take a hike on miles of nature trails or throw a line off the side of the fishing pier. Get a bird's eye view of nature from atop the observation tower. Float your boat at the paddling trails and get schooled on the area's fascinating history at the Cultural and Natural History Center after your boatride. You won't run out of adventures at this park.