Yes, There’s Fall Foliage in Florida—And Here’s Where to Find It

Check out these six places in Florida where the whole family can enjoy the fall’s greatest show—and more.

The Sunshine State is not exactly known for having four distinct seasons. But even during its endless summer, in late October, autumn begins to make its presence felt with a stunning display of color. To enjoy the seasonal view in Florida, here are six places to check out.

Three Rivers State Park

For stunning views of oaks, maples, and pine trees in their fall splendor, take a leisurely walk where Florida meets the southwest corner of Georgia, and the Chattahoochee and Flint rivers converge to form Lake Seminole. That is the setting for this beautiful park just an hour drive northeast out of Tallahassee.

Once there, enjoy the fiery bursts of orange, reds, and yellows that delight visitors as the cooler temperatures arrive. Squirrels, deer, and foxes are a vibrant part of the wildlife.

A picnic area with tables and grills overlooks the lake. For overnight visitors, a rustic cabin and full-facility campgrounds are available near the lake. Activities include canoeing and kayaking.

Address: 7908 Three Rivers Park Rd, Sneads, FL

Phone: (850) 482-9006

Website

Torreya State Park

This verdant place named after a rare species of Torreya tree is one of Florida’s original parks. Developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, this is where—beginning in late October—visitors will marvel at hardwood forests full of southern sugar maple, sweetgum, and sourwood trees blazing red, orange, and yellow.

But aside from its breathtaking beauty, the park plays a very important role in the preservation of unique plant and animal species, as well as protecting the water quality of the Apalachicola River which feeds Apalachicola Bay.

The park also provides a variety of fun experiences for the whole family, such as birdwatching, camping, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Address: 2576 N.W. Torreya Park Road, Bristol, FL

Phone: 850-643-2674

Website

Morningside Nature Center

Aside from allowing you to marvel at the flaming reds, ambers, and titian hues of the season, every Saturday in October this park offers fall wildflower walks to delight the senses. The park’s 278 acres also feature diverse wildlife: deer, wild turkey, box turtles, gopher tortoises, skunks, and numerous birds.

Need to slow down and refuel before continuing with the activities? There is also a public picnic area with restrooms and water fountains.

A bonus for history nerds or, if you prefer, buffs: The center re-creates a single-family rural holding in the year 1870. It includes a beautifully preserved cabin built by Irish immigrants in the 1840s; a barn and one-room schoolhouse; and an heirloom garden, among other remnants of Florida’s past.

Address: 3540 E University Ave., Gainesville, FL

Phone: 352-393-8240

Website

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

Early Native Americans lived in the shoreline villages of this park that boasts three nature trail systems winding through pine forests, wetlands, and hardwood hammock.

For this reason, Wakulla Springs is a great spot to see fall foliage in all its splendor. The park also has the state’s deepest freshwater springs, and in the azure waters of Wakulla Springs live manatees, alligators, and a host of diverse wildlife.

Film buffs will be thrilled to know that two classic oldies, Tarzan’s Secret Treasure (1941) and Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954), were filmed in this place of primeval beauty.

Note: The park is restoring the upland pine habitat at the River Sinks parcel. Please check the website for more information.

Address: 465 Wakulla Park Drive, Wakulla Springs, FL

Phone: 850-561-7276

Website

Suwannee River Park

Head east from Tallahassee and you will encounter a breathtaking spectacle as the cypress trees and southern magnolias explode into crimson, russet, and ochre fall colors.

But as beautiful as this autumn display is, there’s so much more to Suwannee River Park. The place is also full of history, which through the years has become entwined with nature. At the intersection of the Suwannee and Withlacoochee rivers, for example, rain lilies spring up on earthen mounds originally built to defend against Union Navy gunboats.

Apart from Autumn’s most brilliant display, visitors can enjoy other activities, from bicycling and hiking to birdwatching.

Address: 3631 201st Path, Live Oak, FL

Phone: (386) 362-2746

Website

Wekiwa Springs State Park

Just minutes from downtown Orlando, the park that visitors have been flocking to since the mid-19th century is perfect for observing the abundant wildlife or, for fall fanatics, for enjoying the free show nature provides with the turning of the leaves.

There are also miles of trails to explore on foot, bike, or horseback, and canoes and kayaks are available on-site. For those who prefer to just chill in the usually mild weather, the place also invites one to spread a blanket on the grassy slope and enjoy a picnic al fresco.

There’s a playground for the kids, restroom facilities, and wheelchair accessibility. Service animals and pets are allowed (please visit the website for the park’s pet policy).

Address: 1800 Wekiwa Cir, Apopka, FL

Phone: (407) 553-4383

Website