Ten "don't miss" Florida parks, both public and private

Planning your own journey of exploration to Florida? Your name doesn't have to be Juan Ponce de León to enjoy the wonders of this amazing state. And while you may not find the fountain of youth, your travels may put some youthful vigor in your step.

Kevin Mims of visitflorida.com recently published a list of 10 "must see" parks in the Sunshine State, and the story was picked up by theledger.com. Here's Kevin's list:

Florida Caverns

Florida Caverns State Park, Marianna. Cave tours, hiking, biking, and horsebacking around. Not to mention kayaking or a wee bit of golf. Click here to visit.

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Santa Rosa Beach. Plenty of RV-friendly sites with a tram ride to a spectacular beach. Hiking trails, dune lakes unlike few others in the world. Go there.

Anastasia State Park, St. Augustine. A quick trip away to downtown Saint Augestine, or hang out in the park. Here's a link.

Phils 1stPix on flickr.com

Fort Pickens Campground, Pensacola. A military historical buff's dream, but plenty of other great things like hiking or beach hanging. Go now.

St. George Island State Park. Ranked as the third best beach in the entire country, Dr. Beach is a great hang out. Lots of water activities and sunshine. Here's a link.

Juniper Springs

Juniper Springs National Recreation Area, Ocala. Bring kayak or canoe, seven miles of paddling to be had. "Crystal clear freshwater spring," says Kevin. Click here to go.

Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort, Orlando. Break the mold, yes, there really is something attractive in a "commercial" RV park. Quick trip to Walt's place, and see the fireworks from the campground. Jump to the Fort here.

Fort De Soto Park, St. Petersburg. Walk, bike, paddle your kayak. Wildlife watching, beach strolling. Throw in a little history too. Go there now.

Lion Country Safari KOA, Loxahatchee. Next door to the Safari, you may hear a big cat roar when you park in a big old RV spot, and "the campground is located about halfway between West Palm Beach and the eastern shore of Lake Okeechobee. Here's a link.

Mwanner at en.wikipedia

Bahia Honda State Park, Florida Keys. Reservations are hard to get here – one of the biggest camping draws to be had. Reserve as early as you can, here, or at any other Keys location. Click to jump.