Day Trips from Fort Lauderdale
← All Fort Lauderdale day tripsDay Trips from Fort Lauderdale: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Fort Lauderdale, FL. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Fort Lauderdale
West Islands Nature Park
Miami, FL 33133
Just 45 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.9 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
Boynton Beach, FL 33473
Just 46 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.7 stars by 2,248 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Long Key Natural Area & Nature Center
Davie, FL 33330
Just 25 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.7 stars by 962 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Juno Dunes Natural Area
Juno Beach, FL 33408
Just 1 hr 6 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.7 stars by 343 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Daggerwing Nature Center
Boca Raton, FL 33498
Just 43 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.7 stars by 266 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Big Cypress National Preserve
Ochopee, FL 34141
Just 1 hr 16 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.7 stars by 5,924 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park
Okeechobee, FL 34972
Just 2 hrs 29 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.7 stars by 961 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Southern Glades Wildlife and Environmental Area
FL 33034, USA
Just 1 hr 45 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.6 stars by 610 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park
Copeland, FL 34137
Just 1 hr 56 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.6 stars by 699 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
FIU Nature Preserve
Miami, FL 33174
Just 44 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.6 stars by 181 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
John G. and Susan H. Dupuis Jr. Wildlife and Environmental Area
Canal Point, FL 33438
Just 1 hr 28 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.6 stars by 330 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frenchman's Forest Natural Area
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Just 60 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.6 stars by 431 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from Fort Lauderdale
What are the best state parks near Fort Lauderdale, FL?
The best state parks near Fort Lauderdale offer hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Check the cards above for top-rated parks with drive times, ratings, and budget estimates.
How much does it cost to visit state parks near Fort Lauderdale?
Most state parks near Fort Lauderdale charge a vehicle entry fee of $5-$15 per day. Annual passes are usually available for $25-$50 and pay for themselves in 2-3 visits. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
Which state parks near Fort Lauderdale are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Fort Lauderdale offer campgrounds ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with showers. Book early for summer weekends, as popular parks fill up months in advance.
What is the best time to visit state parks near Fort Lauderdale?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Fort Lauderdale. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
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