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Hiking Ravine Gardens
It was a beautiful day to be outside in Florida yesterday. We took the opportunity to take a day trip and explore Ravine Gardens State Park. This is a unique park to hike especially if you want a bit of a challenge. Ravine The ravine in Ravine Gardens was naturally made by the  Whitewater Branch spring that eventually drains into the St. Johns River. This spring-fed creek formed the ravine over thousands of years. It is a marvel to look at and explore. Azalea Trail Hiking the Ravine Gardens was a challenge for us. We are not avid hikers by any means so hiking the Azalea Trail was a workout,…
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Make Your New Year’s Resolution to Explore the Outdoors
The start of a new year is the perfect time to consider taking on a fresh challenge. If you want to step out of your comfort zone this year, why not make exploring the outdoors your resolution? There are many ways to start the new year exploring the great outdoors. Camping, hiking, or kayaking are great ways to explore the areas you live in, especially in Florida where I currently reside. Camping A great way to connect with nature is camping. Immerse yourself right in the heart of the outdoors. Whether you prefer camping in a camper, tent or even renting a cabin it is a fantastic way to get…
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Find the Best Scenic Hiking Trails in Florida
It is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy some of Florida’s best hiking trails with your family. The weather is cooler, less humidity and there is a bit of a cool breeze. So trade in those flip flops for a pair of hiking shoes and hit the trails. Here is a list of our family’s favorite scenic hiking trails in Florida. Ravine Gardens State Park We hiked at Ravine Gardens several years ago with our kids. It is one of our favorite spots that we have hiked. If your kids, like mine, love swinging bridges this is the hike for you. There are two main trails. The Azalea…
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A Fun Filled Weekend at Myakka River State Park
We had a fun filled weekend at Florida’s Myakka River State Park, located just south of Tampa. It was a great way to spend quality family time before the busy Christmas season starts. About Myakka River State Park Myakka River State Park officially opened to the public in 1941. It was one of the first state parks in Florida to be created as part of the New Deal program, the Civilian Conservation Corp. You will see several of their projects while exploring the park. The Myakka River area is abundant with wildlife. Several species of birds make it their home, making this a bird watchers paradise. But for us it…
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Camping and Exploring at O’Leno State Park, Florida
We spent a beautiful fall weekend camping at O’Leno State Park in northern Florida. This was such a peaceful park to relax in and unwind after a hectic week. O’Leno State Park O’Leno is located near High Falls in Florida along the Santa Fe River. The park is full of picturesque points of interest and wildlife. Just waiting for you to explore. I found it interesting that O’Leno State Park was one of original Florida state parks when it opened in 1940. This park’s rich history connected to Civil Conservation Corps of the 1930’s and its past location of the lost town of Leno will enchant any history buff. This…