Suwannee River State Park, Florida

Kick off the socks, roll up the blue jeans and get ready to spend a laid-back afternoon by the river banks at this 1,800-acre natural refuge of peace and bliss. Not always so serene, this park has a bit of a troubled past. The Suwannee River was once the site of many conflicts between groups such as the Native Americans and Spanish settlers, Native Americans and Andrew Jackson led military forces and finally, Union and Confederate troops in the Civil War. Despite its less-than-harmonious past, this park has gone through a pretty big makeover, and has transitioned into a major center for leisure and fun. The slaloming Suwannee River drifts effortlessly between woodlands and wildflowers to provide stunning panorama views great for many types of water activity. By the way, did we mention that it’s one of the most popular destinations in all of Florida for backwater canoers and kayakers? Land lovers too can take advantage of the park’s newfound reputation and enjoy hiking, birding and picnicking on the five different trails varying from a quarter mile to 18 miles, which weave through a mix of magnolias and cypress. It’s time to give this site a second chance, who doesn’t like a bad boy gone good, are we right?