Hello folks! I would like to go hammocking in Florida (I live in Boca Raton) but am looking for places other than the Florida Trail. What are some good places, now that hammocking is allowed in state parks down here?
Thanks in advance,
-Mikums
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Hello folks! I would like to go hammocking in Florida (I live in Boca Raton) but am looking for places other than the Florida Trail. What are some good places, now that hammocking is allowed in state parks down here?
Thanks in advance,
-Mikums
We just went to Lake Wales Ridge State Forest near Avon Park last weekend, 3 hours north of you. Fantastic place.
Closer is Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Tequesta, an hour away. Since it's a State Park, certain restrictions apply.
Try this link for locations of all of Florida's State Forests. Their are lots of great hiking trails and camping opportunities, but not all allow camping. Be advised, the camping is mostly "primitive". The trails are "loop" trails, so they are great for overnighters. The FST links up with some of these forests.
The FL trail along the Kissimmee River is really nice too and not so far from you. The section just south of hwy 60 is beautiful once you get south of River Ranch.
A lot of us hike in the various parts of Withlacoochee State Forest here in central FL. Just a little farther north is Ocala National Forest. Trails and trees-o-plenty.
If you really want to get into what Florida offers a hammock camper get a kayak. You will be astounded at the amount of uncharted territory that opens up to you floating on the many rivers and inlets in Florida.
Paddle till you find a nice clear spot with trees, you've got your own riverfront/oceanview/no charge/awesome campsite!
I'm excited to try this. My UL14.5 isn't the best to take long trips in but I'm willing to give it a shot.Quote:
Originally Posted by Sunbiz
Start with short trips till you get the "hang" of it. :D
My Rig...
http://michael-robbins.com/wp-conten...ctures-010.jpg
WE used to hike/hunt a couple of the loop units in the northern section that was west of Miami. Check the FL fish and game site for management units as well.
Not the Florida Trail? Heathen.
:D
There are plenty of opportunities for hiking besides the Florida Trail. Now hanging, aka camping, is probably not as numerous and they are spread out across the state. I have no experience with the state park system, I prefer backcountry experiences and the parks don't appear to be focused on that. I have had wonderful experiences with the State Forests however. I would recommend visits to them.
As far as specific recommendations, I would checkout Ocala National Forest (mostly Florida Trail), Lake Wales Ridge State Forest and Big Cypress Nation Preserve (although I have not visited that place yet).
There are also the Watershed Management District lands and the Fish and Wildlife Management Areas. The latter do have special hunts every now and then so watch the dates on the website.
Here are some links you can explore:
St. Johns River Watershed Management District
South Florida Watershed Management District
Suwannee River Watershed Management District
Southwest Florida Watershed Management District
Florida Wildlife Management Areas
Big Cypress National Preserve
@ Great White "good post on state parks" they offer primitive campsites aplenty. Just the perfect setting for a great hang!
Here is a list of the many places available: Primitive Campsites
Much appreciated all. Much appreciated.
Mikums, you can also grab a good Florida map and make your own destination. Just remember to take a camera along.
A few years back, Andrew Skurka decided to make his own loop in Alaska/Yukon Territory(Canada).
It was not on a "trail", but, did use a few passages to connect his route. Now with him, it was 4000+ miles, but you can do the same here on a smaller scale.
The good thing about a hammock is you can camp anywhere a tent can go (with planning) and many others a tent cannot.
Happy trails and report back when complete.