FLORIDA TRAIL
This ambitious new trail will eventually be 1,300 miles long when completed, running the length of Florida from the western panhandle to Big Cypress National Preserve, just north of the Everglades. Over 700 miles of the trail are currently open. A number of side trails and loops are included.
The Florida Trail passes through some of the state’s wildest and most beautiful natural scenery. It’s relatively flat and easy. Some sections become quite wet during the rainy season. Winter is the best time to backpack on the trail, with summer not recommended due to insects and the heat.
The trail traverses all three of Florida’s National Forests, numerous state parks, and also state forest lands. Other rather lengthy sections are on private land, and these are open only to members of the Florida Trail Association.
Camping Regulations: Within the National Forests camping is allowed almost anywhere, except near public use areas or where posted otherwise. It’s suggested that campsites be at least 100 feet from the trail and away from water sources.
Elsewhere along the trail camping is restricted, and campfires are allowed only at authorized sites. On some state lands designated campsites are available, usually requiring registration and the payment of a nominal fee to camp. For other segments of the trail there is currently no legal camping except at nearby campgrounds.
For Further Information: Florida Trail Association, P.O. Box 13708, Gainesville, FL 32604: (904)378-8823/(800)343-1882 (in Florida only).
