Day Trips from Sarasota
← All Sarasota day tripsDay Trips from Sarasota: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Sarasota, FL. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Sarasota
Brooker Creek Preserve & Environmental Education Center
Tarpon Springs, FL 34688
Just 1 hr 31 min from Sarasota, rated 4.8 stars by 1,209 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.
Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge
FL 33715, USA
Just 1 hr 3 min from Sarasota, rated 4.8 stars by 1,130 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.
Weedon Island Preserve
St. Petersburg, FL 33702
Just 1 hr 2 min from Sarasota, rated 4.8 stars by 3,589 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.
Weekiwachee Preserve
Spring Hill, FL 34607
Just 1 hr 56 min from Sarasota, rated 4.7 stars by 638 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.
Moccasin Lake Nature Park
Clearwater, FL 33759
Just 1 hr 9 min from Sarasota, rated 4.7 stars by 1,336 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.
Lake Louisa State Park
Clermont, FL 34714
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Sarasota, rated 4.7 stars by 3,545 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 22 min from Sarasota, 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.
Mobbly Bayou Wilderness Preserve
Oldsmar, FL 34677
Just 1 hr 21 min from Sarasota, rated 4.7 stars by 184 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.
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Homosassa, FL 34446
Just 2 hrs 5 min from Sarasota, rated 4.7 stars by 9,209 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.
Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area
Brooksville, FL 34614
Just 1 hr 55 min from Sarasota, rated 4.7 stars by 836 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.
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Just 50 min from Sarasota, rated 4.7 stars by 2,056 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.
Lower Hillsborough Wildlife Management Area
Thonotosassa, FL 33592
Just 1 hr 7 min from Sarasota, rated 4.6 stars by 3,598 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 Sarasota
What are the best state parks near Sarasota, FL?
The best state parks near Sarasota 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 Sarasota?
Most state parks near Sarasota 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 Sarasota are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Sarasota 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 Sarasota?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Sarasota. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me