Must-Have Gear for Enjoying Florida Springs 

View down Blue Spring Run with floating barriers marking where the swim area begins.

Planning a spring day? Don’t forget your gear. If you’re paddling, floating, or just dipping your toes in the water, having the right stuff can really shape your Florida springs adventure. I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) what’s actually useful to bring and what ends up being extra weight. This list includes my must-haves, helpful finds, and a few things I wish I had known about earlier.

Guide to Visiting Rock Springs Run State Reserve

A hiker in a wide-brimmed straw hat walks along a sandy trail surrounded by scrub and tall pines.

If you’re craving a peaceful, no-fuss outdoor spot with real wild Florida energy, Rock Springs Run State Reserve might be just the place. It’s quiet, rugged, and full of sandy trails, wildlife, and scrubby views. Not the kind of park where you paddle or swim—but the kind where you get dust on your shoes and maybe spot a Florida scrub-jay if you’re lucky.

Here’s everything you need to know before heading out.

Visitor’s Guide to Oscar Scherer State Park 

A hand holds up a trail map for Oscar Scherer State Park with a scrub-jay drawing on the cover.

Oscar Scherer State Park might not be the first place people talk about when planning a Florida adventure, but after spending three days there, I can say it offers a lot more than you’d expect. It’s tucked between Sarasota and the Gulf, surrounded by neighborhoods, yet filled with quiet trails, peaceful paddling, and a surprising amount of wildlife.

We didn’t stay overnight, but we explored plenty—and I left thinking a glamping trip here would be perfect next time. If you’re thinking about checking it out, this guide has everything you need to know before you go.

How to Paddle Oscar Scherer State Park

Paddleboarder approaching the launch dock at Oscar Scherer State Park.

Oscar Scherer State Park is a surprisingly quiet place to paddle, especially considering it’s surrounded by neighborhoods. South Creek flows right through the park and eventually connects to the bay, giving you options for short shaded paddles or longer sun-filled routes. South Creek is calm, easy to access, and usually doesn’t draw big paddling crowds, but connects to more challenging areas in and around Dryman Bay and Blackburn Bay for those looking for a bit more excitement.

23 Things to Do at Florida State Parks 

View from an eco-boat tour at De Leon Springs State Park showing open water, blue skies, and tree-lined shores.

Think Florida State Parks are just for hiking? Think again. From paddling with gators (safely!) to floating in springs, snacking like a pro, and even dressing up just for fun—this list is full of unexpected, low-key ways to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re adventuring solo or dragging the kids along, there’s something here that’ll make you want to pack up and go.