Florida Keys State Parks: From Key Largo To Key West

If you love the outdoors, exploring the Florida Keys state parks is high on the Florida bucket list. There are 10 Florida Keys state parks to choose from that are spread throughout the islands.

Whether you are traveling in the Upper, Middle, or Lower Keys, there is a state park nearby to explore. The parks are very different, each offering a unique experience that ranges from coral reef snorkeling and underwater shipwrecks to tropical hammocks, historic ruins and sandy beaches.

If you plan on going to many Florida parks over a period of time, it might be worth getting the Florida state parks annual pass.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a state park in the Florida Keys that is not only on land but in the water. You can explore the park on land and its beaches, but the most fascinating part of it is underwater.

Diving in the coral reef that is home to all kinds of tropical fish and seeing Christ of the Abyss that is a famous underwater statue are some of the highlights of this underwater park.

You can take snorkeling tours or glass-bottom boats to see the reef without getting in the water. Kayaking through the park water is also a popular activity where you can explore the marine creatures closer to shore.

There are short walking trails to explore as well as the visitor center where they have several large saltwater aquariums filled with sea creatures. It’s a great place to learn more about the Florida Keys’ ecosystem and the efforts for its conservation.

Dagny Johnsons Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park

Located in northern Key Largo, this state park is a haven for those who love nature and wildlife. The park was established in 1982 as the land was purchased by the Florida’s Conservation and Recreational Lands program.

There are about 2,421 acres of the park to explore with very interesting botanical attributes. More than 80 species of trees are found in the park which is more tree species than many can claim.

There are self-guided trails that are paved and easily accessible with more trails available through a backcountry permit. Birding and butterfly watching a popular pastimes here as the park features a great variety of species. It’s also very possible to see crocodiles here!

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

This land was once sold to the Florida East Coast Railroad and was used to build Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad in the early 1900s. After the railroad was built, the quarry was used to produce decorative stone called Keystone all the way up until the 1960s.

Today, you can walk around and observe the 8 foot walls of the quarry that have coral embedded into the stone. Follow the short trails to see different sections of the walls and the quarry.

There’s even still samples of the quarry machinery left that are preserved at the park. At the visitor center, you can learn even more about the history of the site and see more exhibits.

Make sure to see the famous tree that is located to the left as you walk into the quarry. Its roots are wrapped all around the wall which creates an incredible display of nature.

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park

What started as wealthy chemists getaway has transformed into a lush island forest state park. In 1919 he built a caretaker’s home, a windmill for electricity, and a cistern for rainwater. Today these are part of the visitor center where visitors can explore with self-guided tours.

The unique part of this state park is that it is only accessible by boat or kayak. There are local vendors that provide a way to get there such as the Florida Keys Rentals at Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada that provides a ferry service to the key.

This ferry service is only available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1 to 4 pm. Alternatively you can go at your own pace by taking a kayak if the weather permits.

Indian Key Historic State Park

Indian Key is truly a historic state park going back all the way to 1836. It became the first county seat for Dade County and at the time, it was the site of a lucrative business that salvaged cargo from shipwrecks in the Florida Keys.

Even earlier than that, it was visited by Native Americans who are known as the Keys Indians. This is how the island got its name

This park is also accessible only by boat or kayak but once you get there, you are greeted with beautiful nature and beaches.

San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park

This is one of the most unique state parks you can visit, but it’s not as easily accessible. This state park is completely underwater and can only be explored by those who snorkel or dive the area.

It’s a historic shipwreck site that has the remains of the Spanish ship San Pedro that sank during the 1733 hurricane. Its remains were only discovered in 1960 when salvage efforts were made.

The site has now been enhanced adding things such as replica cannons, an anchor, and an information plaque. Exploring this diving site is one of the coolest things to do in the Florida Keys.

Long Key State Park

This park is situated on a former coconut plantation that is now a great place to spend time out in nature. It was known as a popular luxury destination in the early 20th century drawing in many well-known people to the area.

After the destructive hurricane of 1935, the hotel that was built there and the coconut palms were wiped out. The land eventually became a part of the Florida State Park system in 1969.

There are plenty of hiking and nature trails through the habitats of the park. Paddle through the mangroves or picnic at any spot you’d like. Enjoy waterfront campsites that are only walk-in and quite primitive. You can ask at the gate if there are any spots available since they are first-come, first-serve.

Curry Hammock State Park

With over 1,110 acres to explore, Curry Hammock State Park is spread across a few islands. This park doesn’t have the nice beaches (except for the day use area) but you can still enjoy the water through kayaking or just lounging by it.

The park has one of the largest remaining spots of the Keys thatch palms. You will see these if you walk any of the trails that wind through the park.

There is a section of the park that is accessible without fees and another section that requires fees but has a nice day use area. It’s a small sandy area where visitors can sunbathe and even swim but keep in mind that the bottom of the water is grassy.

Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda has always been a favorite especially for those who are looking for beaches in the Florida Keys. It has some of the best natural beaches you can find in the islands with soft white sand and clear water.

The three main beaches at the park including Sandspur Beach, Calusa Beach and Loggerhead Beach. Although the park is very popular, if you walk to one of the further ends of the beaches, you will get the beaches mostly to yourself.

Swimming is an enjoyable activity here since the water is clear and not too shallow with a mostly sandy bottom. The water temperature varies from lower 70s in the winter to upper 80s in the summer but it is always very pleasant.

Make sure to go on the leftover section of the historic bridge as it looks over the water. It was originally constructed to connect the Florida Keys by rail.

There are also campgrounds and cabins available for rent for those who want to extend their stay at this park.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Located at the very southern tip of Key West, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is somewhat of a hidden gem. Not only does it have one of the best beaches on the island, it has a historic fort in the park too. Fort Taylor predates Civil War and is a National Historic Monument.

After exploring the fort and its cannons, you can wander around the park and see the beautiful views of the water. Set up a hammock between any of the trees or go down to the beach to have a nice swim and snorkel.

If you end up being there all day, they have refreshments with food and drinks on their menu. Amenities also include restrooms and showers.

Are you traveling to the Florida Keys? Here is our Ultimate Florida Keys Guide!