Q: Hello. We are looking to go camping here in Florida. We would like to see Florida Caverns State Park, but every time I check out the weather forecast, it has rain for the whole week! I am now thinking about camping on the Gulf coast. Can you recommend an exciting place? I have two active boys aged 10 and 11. Thank you for any information you can share. Have a great day!
A: Heh heh, it never rains on the Gulf coast . . . sorry, just a little sarcastic humor.
In Florida, the Gulf coast stretches from Pensacola to Marco Island -- a lot of coast to explore. Because I don't know exactly where on the Gulf you're thinking about camping, here are a few ideas for every type of camper, including active boys:
In the panhandle, Gulf Islands National Seashore near Pensacola, St. Joseph Peninsula State Park in Port St. Joe and St. George Island State Park on St. George Island give you the chance to do lots of water-related activities like canoeing, boating, snorkeling, swimming, fishing, etc.
On the central Gulf coast, try Fort Desoto County Park.
In the southwest, Oscar Scherer State Park in Osprey and Myakka River State Park near Sarasota aren't close to the ocean, but they still offer canoeing and fishing, plus hiking and biking trails. They also both offer ranger-led programs, so when making a campsite reservation, be sure to ask about these programs.
By the way, rangers know their parks the best, so ask them, too, what exciting things there are to do. Often, a good time is whatever you make of it. Have fun!
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