Categories: TRAVEL

Top 5 Florida State Parks for Horseback Riding

Florida has quite a few amazing state parks that are just begging to be explored on horseback. There is even one where you can rent horses for the day. With that said, here are the top five Florida State Parks that should be on every equestrian lover’s list:

1. Amelia Island State Park

The Amelia Island State Park is located off State Road A1A south of Fernandina Beach. It features over 200 acres of island terrain that is accessible by horseback. Guided horseback rides along the beach are available through the Kelly Seahorse Ranch, which is located inside the park. Be prepared to remit a $2 per person park entrance fee. Rides typically run four times a day and prices start at $60 per person. The park itself is open daily, year round from 8 a.m. until sunset.

2. Colt Creek State Park

The Colt Creek State Park is located off State Route 471 south of Lakeland. You are able to bring your horses into the park with you providing you can present a negative Coggins exam. There are over 10 miles of swamp wilderness trails that are horse accessible. Camping with your horse is usually acceptable within the primitive campsites area. Primitive campsites generally rent for $5 per adult, per night and advance reservations are needed. The park is open daily and you’ll need to remit a $4 per vehicle admission fee.

3. Savannas Preserve State Park

The Savannas Preserve State Park is located in Port St. Lucie and consists of coastal wetland terrain. The park features slightly over eight miles of horse trails that meander through marshy terrain. There is also an area near the trails to park your horse trailer. Don’t forget to bring along your horse’s last negative Coggins exam. The park’s education center tends to be open Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. You’ll need to pay a $3 per vehicle parking fee in order to access the trails. There is no camping available on site so plan accordingly.

4. Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park

The Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park is located on Fire Tower Road just south of Orlando. There terrain is mixed and often wet in spots. There are eight miles of trails suitable for horseback riding as well as a small picnic area perfect for an afternoon repast. It is open daily, year round and admission is gratis. Camping is not available on premise, so you’ll need to make alternate lodging arrangements.

5. Dunns Creek State Park

The Dunns Creek State Park is located off U.S. 17 south of Palatka. The park features four, marked, wilderness trails that are designated for horseback riding. The terrain varies from woodlands to sand hills. You’ll need to carry in your own water. Even though the trails are marked, it’s recommended that you also bring along a map and a compass just in case. It is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset and admission is gratis.

Killeen Gonzalez enjoys horseback riding with her family and has traveled extensively.