Although Everglades National Park receives more attention than Big Cypress National Preserve in South Florida, the former offers several important benefits. Big Cypress is a huge freshwater swamp and the first national preserve in the United States. The 720,000-acre preserve is more accessible than Everglades National Park, and it's free to explore. It's also situated on the Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41), a major road that connects the east and west coasts of Florida. Inside, you'll discover a plethora of spots for camping, canoeing, kayaking, birdwatching, and riding. For those who are interested, there are eight campsites to choose from, including some more rustic ones, and rangers and private outfitters provide swamp excursions, nature walks, bike rides, and canoe outings.
Spanish explorer Hernando de dordle Soto became the first European to cross the Mississippi River; the Tampa Bay area's De Soto National Memorial honors his account. You may go on kayak trips guided by park rangers, see historical reenactments in costume, hike for miles, and learn everything about the area's Native American history (which predates the Spanish conquest).
Perhaps a day at the beach is all it takes to unwind after taking in so much history at the nation's parks and monuments. Many people go to Gulf Islands National Seashore, which is close to Pensacola, to do exactly that, drawn in by its white beaches and turquoise seas. In contrast to the busy beaches along Highway 399, this 150-mile coastline provides a peaceful retreat. Despite its relative lack of development (so bring your own food and drink in a cooler), Fort Pickens does provide a campground, picnic grounds with pavilions and grills, and a couple of paved parking lots with facilities.
Canaveral National Seashore is another place along the Atlantic Coast where you may see pristine beach. This area is perfect for beachcombing, hiking, and fishing. Watching rocket launches from the adjacent Kennedy Space Center is another must-do activity here, preferably on Playalinda Beach.
