In early June, the USDA Forest Service, National Forests in Florida released the 2012 Florida National Scenic Trail Strategic Plan. This planning document is the first guidance document for the future of the Florida Trail since the trail’s original inception as a National Scenic Trail in 1986.
In the News
Newsworthy articles about Florida's outdoors
A Peaceful Donation
A donation of the 4,171 acre Peaceful Horse Ranch on the Peace River was turned down by DEP two years ago. It was just accepted as a future Florida State Forest
American Trails names Florida BEST Trails state
Thanks to the efforts of the Office of Greenways and Trails, Florida was named the BEST TRAILS STATE at the 2008 National Trails Symposium in Little Rock, Arkansas
Au Naturale in White Springs
Expect a reroute of the Florida Trail in White Springs, as the Suwannee Valley Campground has been purchased and turned into a nudist resort.
Bart Smith’s Amazing Adventure
National Trails photographer Bart Smith is poised to wrap up 16 years of hiking ALL of the National Scenic Trails in America, and with that feat, launch a new website to tell his story through his photos.
Bear bagging a must in Florida’s National Forests
A federal order has been signed requiring the use of bear bags or bear canisters when backpacking the Florida Trail through the Ocala, Osceola, and Apalachicola National Forests.
Bear season in Florida
As Florida black bears become active in late winter and spring, the chances of a bear encounter go up significantly if you leave food unsecured outdoors – whether in your campsite or at home.
Bobcat attacks hiker in Citrus County
During a backpacking trip with fellow Scouts, a young hiker was attacked by a bobcat in Withlacoochee State Forest. The bobcat was later killed.
Do not feed the bears
“A fed bear is a dead bear,” says Florida Fish & Wildlife. It’s time to make homeowners responsible for keeping trash and food out of reach when they live in bear territory.
Every Kid in a Park
Got kids? If any of them are in fourth grade, they can get a free pass to ALL Federal public lands good for the whole family through the end of August. Here’s how.