Are you looking to escape winter's chill? If your answer is yes, then Florida should be at the top of your RV travel bucket list! How about checking out what the Sunshine State has to offer year-round? From visiting vibrant theme parks and beaches to exploring abundant wildlife preserves, there are plenty of things that will keep your vacation traveling around Florida exciting and memorable.
In the market for an RV upgrade or ready to hit the sunshine state's open roads in your new motorhome? La Mesa has multiple stores across the state! Stop by any one of our locations in Davie, Orlando, Port St. Lucie or Fort Myers while on your Florida RV road trip.
Guest Post By TheAdventureDetour
There Is A Reason Why Florida Is So Popular To Visit In The Winter
Florida is full of things to see and do year-round while RVing, but the heat and humidity of late spring, summer, and early fall make outdoor activities a bit uncomfortable. Winter weather is just right to enjoy outdoor fun. We have wintered out west in our RV, and Florida is by far the warmest winter RV location most years. So if you are looking for perfect winter sun and fun, then Florida is just right for your RV trip. Looking for the best RV campgrounds and resorts in Florida? Check out our list of the Top 10 RV Campgrounds in Florida.
Florida Isn't Just Sandy Beaches And Theme Parks
Florida offers more than just sandy beaches and theme parks for travelers who come to explore the Sunshine State. With its diverse geography, Florida also has plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, diving, camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
For those looking for a unique experience, there are several National Parks and Forests to check out. From the Everglades National Park to the Ocala National Forest, you can explore a variety of ecosystems in Florida. From coastal wetlands and marshes to pinelands and scrub forests, there is something for everyone to explore.
The wildlife is second to none in Florida. For travelers that enjoy bird watching, you just can't beat the variety of birds in Florida. We love to watch the seagulls, pelicans, and sand cranes, but there are birds you can't find elsewhere. Of course, it's always neat to see alligators, and they are plentiful near any freshwater lakes and rivers. Then there is the abundant ocean wildlife to view. We always get a thrill watching dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees.
Top Winter Activities To Do In Florida for RVers
Explore Florida's Freshwater Springs
Florida's freshwater springs are an amazing natural wonder and should definitely be on your winter travel bucket list. With crystal clear water, these springs offer a unique opportunity to explore the hidden beauty of Florida. From cave diving to snorkeling, observing wildlife in its natural habitat, or simply floating down a tranquil river, there is something for everyone.
We love to paddle board Florida's natural springs. The water is so clear and full of turtles and fish that it feels like you are paddling in an aquarium! You will need a wetsuit to enjoy swimming or snorkeling in the springs during the winter months. The water is always about 72 degrees which feels very cold in the winter. Check out the springs at Blue Springs State Park and Silver Springs State Park.
Take A Trip To The Florida Keys
If you're in the mood for a truly unique experience, then visiting the Florida Keys is a must-do on your winter RV trip. These islands are a tropical paradise, featuring some of the most beautiful beaches and turquoise waters in all of Florida. Whether exploring beneath the sea through snorkeling and SCUBA diving or just strolling along the beach and soaking up the sun, you'll get a taste of paradise.
Don't miss the gorgeous Bahia Honda State Park and exploring the old fort at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. There also some incredible oceanfront state park RV campgrounds that are big rig friendly for Florida Keys camping.
Visit The Nation's Oldest City
Speaking of old forts, don't miss checking out the nation's oldest city, St. Augustine! Wander along the streets of this charming city to discover the history and culture of the area. St. Augustine offers a variety of activities, from sightseeing at museums and historical sites to taking a trolley tour. You can even stop by the Fountain Of Youth. Make sure to explore the oceanside fort with incredible history and scenery, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. This is definitely one destination you won't want to miss during your visit to Florida!
Swim With Florida's Manatees
Swimming with Florida's manatees is an experience like no other. A gentle and majestic marine mammal, the manatee inhabits the shallow waters of Florida's coasts, rivers, and estuaries. Swimming with these giant sea cows is an opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat and appreciate their beauty up close. The manatees flock from the ocean into warmer Florida rivers and inlets on colder days. The best place to swim with them is in Crystal River, Florida, where you can take a manatee boat snorkel tour or swim with them on your own. Check out our Tips and Tricks to Seeing Florida Manatees!
Paddle The Mangroves Of Florida
Kayaking is a great way to get out and explore the natural beauty of Florida, and kayaking in the mangroves can be a unique and rewarding experience. The mangroves are one of the most important ecosystems in Florida, and they are home to a variety of wildlife. You'll get up close and personal with dolphins, sea turtles, fish, and more. Plus, you never know what other interesting creatures you might encounter! There are mangroves located all over the state, but an especially scenic area to paddle through is Biscayne Bay National Park.
Check Out A Florida Lighthouse
One of the most iconic sights in Florida is the lighthouse, providing a beautiful and unmistakable landmark for sailors and explorers to find their way home. The Florida Lighthouse Trail takes visitors along the coast from Amelia Island to Key West, showcasing some of the oldest and most unique lighthouses in America. Our favorite Florida lighthouses are the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, and the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. Stop and take a tour at one of the lighthouses, or just admire them from afar.
Explore The Wilderness Of Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest is an outdoor wonderland that has something for everyone. Set deep in the heart of Central Florida, this expansive forest is a nature lover's paradise. The Ocala National Forest covers over 300,000 acres and includes lakes, rivers, wildlife habitats, and miles of trails to explore.
The forest is home to some of Florida's most iconic wildlife, from bald eagles and alligators to black bears and wild boar. Yes, black bears live in Florida! We got the thrill of seeing a mother bear and her cubs during our RV visit to Ocala National Forest. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like camping, fishing, horseback riding, hiking, biking, nature photography, ATV riding, and more.
See The Famous Historic Weeki Wachee Mermaid Show
The famous Weeki Wachee Mermaid Show is an iconic attraction located just north of Tampa, Florida. It has been entertaining visitors to the area since 1947 and is a must-see destination on any winter RV trip. It's a popular show with families and travelers of all ages.
At the show, visitors can observe beautiful mermaids swimming gracefully in crystal-clear water as they perform their aquatic ballet. In between shows, guests can explore the many other attractions of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, such as renting kayaks or taking a riverboat ride. This gorgeous natural spring is a must-see spot.
Snorkel Or Dive Florida's Reef
Diving or snorkeling the coral reefs of Florida offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience one of the most vibrant and diverse ecosystems in the world. From richly colored coral formations to amazing wildlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The best places to view the reef are off the coast of Key West and The Florida Keys, where the Gulf Stream brings warm waters to the shallow coral formations. Here you will find vibrant sponges, corals, and an abundance of tropical fish. The Florida reef is also home to larger aquatic life, such as sharks, rays, and turtles.
A great place to snorkel or dive in Florida's coral reef is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. This northern Keys park offers guided boat tours for snorkeling the reef as well as gear rental. John Pennekamp is also a great place to RV camp right near the action, and the campground is just a few steps away from the water.
Enjoy Florida's Unexpected Rocky Coast
Blowing Rocks Preserve, located on Florida's Jupiter Island, is a unique and captivating stretch of rocky coastline in Florida. Here, you can witness a spectacle unlike anywhere else. Dynamic waves crash against giant limestone formations that look like they have been sculpted by hand. These rocks contain ancient fossil remnants of sea life, and the sight of them is a beautiful reminder of nature's power. When the storm or high tide waves hit the rocks, they create spectacular rocketing plumes of water that spray up to 50 feet through the air.
These are just a few of the amazing winter things to do in Florida. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled RV trip or an opportunity to explore nature's wonders, there is something for everyone in The Sunshine State! So pack your bags and get ready for a memorable experience this winter.
Looking for the perfect RV to head to Florida in? La Mesa has the selection to find your dream winter road trip RV. Stop by for a visit today!
Scott, his wife Van, and their 12-year-old daughter Sissy have traveled full-time in their RV for 7 years. They have worked and homeschooled on the road through 42 states so far. They blog about RVing tips, travel destinations, and the full-time RV lifestyle on their blog, theadventuredetour. They are also RV content creators @theadventuredetour on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. They love connecting with RVers, so be sure to reach out to them and say hi!
