Orlando is home to some of the top attractions and theme parks in the world, but if you are looking to get away from all of the hustle and bustle of the busy tourist market, then don’t worry – Central Florida also has several nature parks and reserves in the area for those who just want to enjoy the untouched areas of the Sunshine State. For a fraction of the price of the theme parks, you can enjoy hiking, swimming and more outdoor activities while also getting an up close view of Florida’s wildlife and natural terrain.

One of the most popular state parks around is located about 30-40 miles north of the attractions area in Apopka, Fla. The short drive is well worth it, however, as the Wekiwa Springs State Park offers naturally fresh springs for diving, swimming and one of the parks most popular activities – boating or canoeing. Nature lovers will enjoy the multiple lakes and streams here, and guests can also camp, have a picnic and go fishing as well.

Near the Wekiwa Springs State Park is the Rock Springs Run State Reserve. Just as Wekiwa Springs has multiple waterways for your enjoyment, Rock Springs Run has 17 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, offering views of native Florida wildlife – including black bear sightings! Also located in Apopka is Kelly Park, a family favorite in the area. At Kelly Park, guests can meander down the natural Rock Springs stream, go camping or enjoy one of their many picnic areas.

Located in Longwood, Fla., also just north of the Orlando area, is Big Tree Park, one of Florida’s most famous natural landmarks. Only here can you find what is believed to be the oldest-living tree in the United States, a 3,500-year-old Bald Cypress Tree dubbed “The Senator.” Big Tree Park also features a natural marsh lands, a peaceful boardwalk and a large picnic area.

If you are looking for something a little closer in proximity, the nearby University of Central Florida campus is home to the UCF Arboretum. This 80-acre preserve is a centerpiece of the campus landscape and is home to more than 600 species of plants, including several distinct ecosystems that are separated by trails for you to explore. Visitors can take a self-guided tour any day of the week from sunrise to sunset, and staff members are available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. for help and group sessions.

Finally, nature lovers are also sure to love the Nature Conservancy’s Disney Wilderness Preserve, located just a short distance from Disney in Kissimmee, Fla. This 12,000-acre preserve protects the headwaters of the Everglades and is home to hundreds of rare Florida wildlife species and a hiking trail for visitors who wish to learn more about the Conservancy’s plants and animals and their efforts to restore and protect them in their natural setting.

While these activities above are a good respite for any visitor to Central Florida, don’t forget about all of the fun you can also have at all of the attractions in the area, including Walt Disney World, Universal, Sea World and much more! To see all of these theme parks at a discounted price, look no further than right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com, the largest discounted ticket store in Orlando and your key for unlocking tons of unique fun for your next vacation. Click here to get started on your vacation planning now!

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