Everglades National Park
At over 2,500 square miles, the Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. The park provides endless recreational opportunities, including: nearly 200 miles of trails for hiking and canoeing, over 15 miles of bicycle trails, fresh and saltwater fishing and both car and backcountry camping. The park is full of wildlife with over 1,000 species of plants and flowers, more than 75 species of reptiles and amphibians, over 350 different species of birds, nearly 300 different species of fish and over 40 species of mammals. The Everglades National Park is famously known for sightseeing of its large American Alligator population.
Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park is the largest marine park in the National Park System. The park is more than 172,000 acres in size, 95 percent of which is covered by water. The park harbors one of the only undeveloped shorelines left on Florida's east coast. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Biscayne National Park because of the recreation it has to offer, such as: snorkeling, diving, boating, fishing, hiking, tent camping and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. The park is one of the top scuba diving areas in the United States, with over 500 species of fish identified in Biscayne Bay. Since most of the park is covered by water, a boat or canoe will be needed to access some areas of the park. However, daily guided tours are offered, as well as canoe and kayak rentals. There is only one short section of paved roadway in the park, and no driving tours or bicycle trails.
Castellow Hammock Preserve and Nature Center
The 112-acre Castellow Hammock Park is located along the 2000-mile Great Florida Birding Trail established by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The park is a popular destination for bird and butterfly enthusiasts. A large butterfly garden sits at the entrance of a half-mile nature trail that leads visitors into the tropical hardwood forest that covers the park. Over 120 bird species and 70 species of butterflies have been recognized in the park. The park is one of the only nature preserve areas in Metro Miami.
