10 National Parks and Gardens near Orlando

Thanks to its low-lying terrain, year-round sunshine, and summer rain showers, there are many stunning national parks and gardens near Orlando. Of course, the world-famous Everglades swamps are a renowned area of natural beauty, but there’s a wealth of equally glorious greenspaces across Florida for lovers of the great outdoors. If you’ve had enough theme park action, the locations featured below offer excellent respite.

We’ve recommended a broad range of beauty spots in this list, including a selection of smaller gardens located in Downtown Orlando which are perfect for an afternoon stroll or a family picnic. There are also several larger national parks that offer an authentic glimpse of the state’s native flora and fauna. They’re ideal for photographers.

Orlando Hotels

1. Blue Spring State Park Florida

Bright green springs that are home to hundreds of manatees

Good for: Adventure, Families, Photo

Blue Spring State Park spans over 2,600 acres and includes the largest spring on the St. John’s River. The water is crystal clear, a gorgeous emerald color, and sits at a steady 72°F during the swimming season. From November to mid-March, the springs are a major refuge to hundreds of West Indian manatees.

Aside from the sea cows, Blue Spring State Park boasts an impressive collection of native fauna including armadillos, tropical birds, turtles, squirrels, and American alligators. Rent a kayak or take a guided boat tour to see the wildlife up close. Don’t forget to bring a picnic. Read more

Location: 2100 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763, USA

Open: Daily from 8 am to sunset

Phone: +1 386-775-3663

Explore Blue Spring State Park Hotels

2. Canaveral National Seashore

Barrier island park that teems with wildlife

Good for: Adventure, Families, Photo

Canaveral National Seashore is a sanctuary for endangered species including loggerhead, leatherback, and Kemp’s ridley sea turtles which come to the beach to lay their eggs. Like many of Florida’s coastal regions, this pristine beauty spot is ideal for those who favor outdoor activities. Enjoy horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, surfing, swimming, fishing, and boating. If you’re an avid hiker, there’s a trail near the Visitor’s Center.

There’s an entrance fee to the park, but this helps keep crowds to a minimum and ensures the reserve is clean and well-maintained. Kids can busy themselves with a Junior Ranger activity book. Don’t miss the views of the rocket launches that are scheduled during opening times. Read more

Location: 7611 S. Atlantic Avenue, New Smyrna Beach, Florida 32169, USA

Open: Daily from 6 am to 8 pm

Phone: +1 386-428-3384

3. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Camping grounds inspired by the rustic Northwest

Good for: Adventure, Families, Photo

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is a tranquil themed camping attraction that can be found between Magic Kingdom and Epcot. It boasts four types of camping sites including individual tents and RV parking spots. You’ll find all the essential amenities here for an awesome camping trip like running water, electricity, private showers, and laundry facilities. If tents aren’t for you, consider an air-conditioned cabin with a restroom and free Wi-Fi.

Traverse the surrounding trails and immerse yourself in nature. Embark on a laidback carriage ride or try archery. The nearby creek is a beautiful spot for kayaking and fishing. For enthralling entertainment and a hearty dinner, book tickets to the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue. Read more

Location: 4510 Fort Wilderness Trail, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, USA

Phone: +1 407 934 7639

4. The Everglades

The largest subtropical wilderness in the US

Good for: Adventure, Families, Photo

The Everglades is a sprawling region of subtropical wetlands in the southern portion of Florida, beginning at Lake Okeechobee near Walt Disney World and becoming more prominent about 3 to 4 hours south of Downtown Orlando. The Everglades’ environment is ever-changing and mostly untouched. Swamps and mangroves are inhabited by various types of snakes and alligators, and birds of different species make this subtropical wilderness their home.

Guided tours are the best way to see everything this incredible national park has to offer, whether that’s by airboat, kayak, or with an experienced ranger. Whichever option you choose, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind experience. Drop by any of the four visitor centers for educational displays and the latest safety info. Read more

Location: Florida, USA

Phone: +1 305 242 7700

5. Harry P. Leu Gardens

Almost 50 acres of tropical gardens

Good for: Couples, Families, Photo

Harry P. Leu Gardens showcases almost 50 acres of beautiful greenspace including landscaped flower beds, glimmering lakes, serpentine trails, and dense forest. Mr. and Mrs. Harry P. Leu began these gardens by planting exotic botanicals and over 240 varieties of camellias, which were brought home from their travels from all over the world. In 1961, the Leu family gifted the property to the city of Orlando to preserve its stunning acreage.

Wander past striking bromeliads, gaze at colorful butterflies, and smell the fragrant roses. For a unique visit, register for an art class or horticulture workshop. If you’d like to tour the Leus’ historic home, check museum times on the official website. Read more

Location: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803, USA

Open: Hours vary by season

Phone: +1 407-246-2620

Explore Harry P. Leu Gardens Hotels

6. Kelly Park

A spectacular protected sanctuary

Good for: Adventure, Families, Photo

Kelly Park is a popular public reserve in Apopka, Florida. It’s best known for its free-flowing natural spring that remains a comfortable 68°F all year round. Visitors flock to the park no matter the season to swim, tube, and kayak in its crystal-clear waters. Tent and RV camping is offered, alongside a concession stand and picnic pavilions.

On sunny days, nothing beats a hike on one of its wilderness trails, followed by a dip in a turquoise spring or a lazy tube ride. If you’ve got kids in tow, let them burn off energy at the playground before grilling a tasty barbecue dinner. Don’t forget to bring your own charcoal. Read more

Location: 400 E Kelly Park Rd, Apopka, FL 32712, USA

Open: Daily from 8 am to 6 pm

Phone: +1 407-254-1902

Explore Kelly Park Hotels

7. Lake Eola Park

An epic urban oasis

Good for: Budget, Families, Photo

Lake Eola Park is a pleasant downtown spot for picnics, exercise, and paddle-boating. It’s also a lovely escape from the nearby high-rises. This 23-acre site, located off East Washington Street, has an almost mile-long walkway around the lake edge that boasts spectacular views, especially at sunset.

There’s also an amphitheater which hosts special events throughout the year, as well as children’s playgrounds, a beautiful bright red Chinese pagoda, and a famous fountain that lights up in colors post sundown. A lazy summer’s afternoon wouldn’t be complete without renting a swan-shaped paddle boat and enjoying the sights from the water. Read more

Location: 512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

Open: Daily from 6 am to midnight

Phone: +1 407-246-4484

Explore Lake Eola Park Hotels

8. Lake Toho

Osceola County’s largest lake

Good for: Couples, Families, Photo

Lake Tohopekaliga, or Lake Toho as it’s also called, is a 23,000-acre fishing lake in Kissimmee that’s known for its professional fishing competitions and birdwatching opportunities. This popular body of water is home to a staggering number of freshwater bass, alligators, water snakes, and turtles.

Located on the north side of Lake Toho, Lakefront Park has a seating area, a playground, and even a miniature lighthouse. If you’re having so much fun that you don’t want to leave, hook up your RV and camp for the night or rent a cabin at the nearby resort. Read more

See nearby properties

9. Ocala National Forest

Florida’s largest nationally protected forest

Good for: Adventure, Families, Photo

Located in central Florida between theme parks and sandy beaches, the Ocala National Forest spans 383,000 acres of stunning natural landscapes, all which are ready to be explored. Over 600 lakes, rivers, and springs draw in eager visitors, who flock to these beauty spots for a wide range of watersports.

There’s an abundance of wildlife to spot, from manatees to migratory birds, as well as some of the world’s rarest plants. Hike dozens of trails, settle down for a picnic amongst the trees, then return to your tent, RV, or rented cabin for a relaxing night under the stars. If you’re staying in Florida for a while, consider purchasing the Hopper Pass to access all recreation sites managed by Naventure. Read more

Explore Ocala National Forest Hotels

10. Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve

Peaceful country park with wildlife in abundance

Good for: Adventure, Families, Photo

The Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve is a scenic reserve on the west side of Orlando, offering miles of hiking trails. Home to the Vera Carter Environmental Center, visitors can tour a variety of exhibits and displays before heading out on a trek. The well-maintained trails loop through many of Florida’s major habitats, including pine forests, swamps, and a lakeshore lined with Cypress trees. Elusive fauna and wildlife also make this park their home, such as the barred owl and river hawk.

Families in particular enjoy an afternoon at the Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve thanks to its vibrant butterfly garden and wheelchair-accessible sandbox. Please note that bicycles and pets aren’t allowed at the park, except for ADA service animals. Read more

Location: 8777 Winter Garden Vineland Rd, Orlando, FL 32836, USA

Open: Daily from 8 am to 6 pm

Phone: +1 407-254-1940

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.