Florida, often called the ‘Sunshine State,’ is a golfer’s dream destination with over 1,200 golf courses. While some of these have long been established private and resort-style courses, Florida state parks offer a few of the most unique golfing experiences in the Sunshine State. These courses provide more than just a round; they immerse you in nature’s beauty while playing the game alongside Florida’s various ecosystems.
What to Choose Florida State Parks for Golfing?
Florida state parks golf differs in specific ways from playing on regular courses with an intoxicating mix of relaxation and nature. It has 165 acres of untouched natural beauty, which provides a unique round of golf surrounded by wildlife and historical sites. Unlike the private courses, these parks were intended to be open to everyone, with green fees priced right and player-friendly design conditions that would make them worthy of play at any skill level. And there’s something nice about hitting your first shots surrounded by nature in its rawest form, unlike the well-manicured fairways of a standard golf resort.
Play the Top Golf Courses in Florida State Parks
State parks in Florida boast many terrific golf courses for both casual weekend golfers and seasoned pros. Some of the courses are considered to be top-notch, and some allow you to play in a truly natural setting.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Some of the exquisite natural surroundings that people can admire and explore when visiting Jonathan Dickinson State Park (JDS) in Southeast Florida include rivers, woods, and hills covered with dunes. The golf here is an undiscovered gem; it is testing but enjoyable. The course — a regulation beauty that cleaves Tahoe City’s 180-acre home to an array of wildlife and long-needled trees, including the occasional bear or bald eagle— meanders through South Lake Tahoe’s natural terrain. Ensure you have enough water and sun protection to keep yourselves safe under the intense Florida sunshine; this especially holds during summer months.
Myakka River State Park
Golf Courses Surround Myakka River State Park One of the oldest and largest state parks in Florida, recreation opportunities are everywhere. The course here is constructed to integrate with the surrounding greenery for a more serene and calm golf experience. Travel around wetlands and see alligators up close, as Innisbrook Resort offers you the opportunity to play surrounded by wildlife, including watching for various bird species that appear throughout your round. The best times to play are early morning or late afternoon, so you can avoid some of that intense heat and have a better chance of seeing wildlife.
Destin, Florida: A Marine Adventure Whale Watching
Colt Creek State Park
Colt Creek State Park — Central Florida…a bit more of a rugged golf experience. This is an easy course, an enjoyable one, especially if you enjoy peace and solitude in this world. The park, meanwhile, is equally famous for its pine flatwoods and cypress domes — a phenomenal backdrop for 18 great golfing holes. For a laid-back, quiet day of golfing, you cannot go wrong with Colt Creek.
Wakulla Springs State Park
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park is known for its beautiful springs and rich history, but it also offers golf with the ultimate twist. Here, we have a small yet picturesque golf course that is great for a round or two in the afternoon. End your game with a refreshing swim in one of the clear springs, or follow it up by taking part in a boat tour and seeing for yourselves manatees and other wildlife that roam around.
Facilities at Florida State Park Golf Courses
Though the spotlight is undoubtedly on nature, Florida State Park golf course facilities are not forgotten. Most parks offer a clubhouse where you can find food, a pro shop to buy gear and souvenirs, or even a club rental if you’re in town without golf clubs. Dining options range from casual snack bars to newer, fancier picnic grounds where you can post up for a nature-filled meal après round.
Florida State Parks | Natural Wonders
Some of the prettiest pieces of Florida nature surround golfers at its state park courses. The scenery ranges from the tall pines of Jonathan Dickinson to Myakka River’s vast wetlands, and it is always beautiful. Homes in these parks range from $300,000 -Â- 750,000 and are all on the golf course or waterfront (sometimes both) — yet you’ll probably have to shoot par aside a deer instead of an osprey up top with Alligator Alley. The parks protect these areas, so your golf round is also a commitment to ecology.
Get Your Tee Time in Florida This Season
One of the most important things to consider when planning a golf outing in Florida is Florida Weather. Ideally, the most incredible months of November through April are recommended for playing to avoid excessive heat and humidity. During the summer, you can still golf, but there are additional things to consider, such as staying hydrated and taking shade breaks. Some state parks feature special events and tournaments during the winter months to give you even more reasons to visit.
Planning Your Trip
If you are considering a golf vacation in one of Florida’s parks, reserve your tee times online; these courses fill up quickly – especially during the high season. Booking Many parks use an online booking system, making the process easier. Regarding accommodations, camping cabins or lodges are available to stay in depending on the park you choose – but get them well in advance. If you want to stay more comfortably, the neighboring towns have ample hotels and vacation rentals.
Golf course etiquette in Florida state parks
One of the major features of golfing in FSP is respect for nature. Walk only where designated, pick up after yourself, and do not disturb the wildlife; follow leave no trace principles. Although you are not expected to meet the strict dress codes of private clubs, appropriate attire is still a requirement. Also, please respect other users, who might be hikers or riders just basking in the beautiful, serene surroundings.
Golf Health and Safety Tips
However, there are some other potential challenges to golfing in Florida: the heat and wildlife. Have water with you at all times, apply sunscreen, and, if needed, wear a hat to block the sun. If you come across any wildlife, ensure you do not approach it or feed it. You should also keep a basic first-aid kit on hand if you’re in more isolated areas.
Environmental Friendliness(Sustainability)
Sustaining Florida state parks Florida is home to golf courses in various landscapes, and each course reflects our commitment to sustainability. Many of these courses have instituted green measures such as water conservation, using native plants, and limiting the amount of pesticides. There are some dos and don’ts that you, as a golfer, can do here: Follow the park rules and assist in conserving this park by being an eco-friendly nature lover.
Conclusion
Florida State Park golfing allows you to combine your love of the game with a deep respect for natural living. It is an opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, enjoying a relaxing round of complimentary golf in some of our state’s most serene locations. Florida State Park Golf Courses have something for everyone, whether you are just starting or a seasoned pro.
