Top 10 Family-Friendly Outdoor Adventures in Central Florida

Family on a kayak trip

Central Florida is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures perfect for families looking to connect with nature, create unforgettable memories, and enjoy some fresh air. From crystal-clear springs to enchanting trails, there’s something for everyone—no matter the age. Here are the top 10 family-friendly outdoor activities you’ll want to add to your Central Florida bucket list.

1. Kayaking on Shingle Creek

Known as the headwaters of the Everglades, Shingle Creek offers calm waters and breathtaking scenery, making it an ideal spot for beginner kayakers and families. Guided tours are available and often include wildlife spotting opportunities, like turtles, herons, and even otters.

Why It’s Perfect for Families:

  • Calm waters and easy paddling.

  • Tandem kayaks available for kids to ride along.

2. Explore the Trails at Wekiwa Springs State Park

Wekiwa Springs is a family favorite, with trails for all skill levels, picnic areas, and the opportunity to swim in the cool, turquoise spring waters. Whether hiking, biking, or just relaxing by the water, this park is a fantastic choice for an all-day adventure.

Highlights:

  • 13 miles of trails for hiking or biking.

  • Canoeing and swimming options.

3. Wildlife Watching at Circle B Bar Reserve

This hidden gem near Lakeland is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Kids will love spotting alligators, turtles, and an array of birds as they explore the picturesque trails.

Best Family-Friendly Features:

  • Well-maintained walking paths.

  • A fun, interactive visitor center that teaches kids about local ecosystems.

4. Swimming at Blue Spring State Park

Famous for its winter manatee population, Blue Spring is a wonderful place to swim, snorkel, or kayak during the warmer months. The crystal-clear water and shaded picnic areas make it perfect for families.

Family Tip: Visit in the cooler months to see hundreds of manatees in the spring run.

5. Airboat Rides on Lake Tohopekaliga

For a thrilling family outing, hop on an airboat tour at Lake Tohopekaliga, often shortened to Lake Toho . The high-speed rides are exciting, and you’ll have the chance to see alligators and other wildlife up close.

Why It’s Fun for Families:

  • A mix of adventure and education.

  • Great for older kids and teens.

6. Biking at West Orange Trail

The West Orange Trail is a paved trail stretching over 22 miles, but families can tackle shorter sections suitable for all skill levels. Stop by charming downtown Winter Garden for snacks or a relaxing break.

Family-Friendly Perks:

  • Flat, shaded paths.

  • Bike rentals are available nearby.

7. Discover Bok Tower Gardens

This serene location in Lake Wales is perfect for families looking for a mix of education and exploration. The beautifully maintained gardens are home to a towering carillon that plays music throughout the day, along with fun interactive activities for kids.

Family Features:

  • A children’s garden with hands-on activities.

  • Guided nature walks.

8. Camping and Stargazing at Lake Kissimmee State Park

For families ready to embrace the great outdoors, Lake Kissimmee State Park offers camping, wildlife observation, and incredible stargazing opportunities. Take a leisurely stroll on one of the nature trails to spot deer, sandhill cranes, and more.

Pro Tip: Introduce kids to camping with a one-night stay and bring along s’mores supplies!

9. Snorkeling at Juniper Springs

Juniper Springs is a stunning freshwater spring located in Ocala National Forest, one of Florida’s most beautiful natural areas. It’s a perfect family destination, offering crystal-clear waters, abundant wildlife, and a range of outdoor activities. 

Why It’s Memorable for Families:

  • Hiking on the springs trail

  • Crystal-clear spring for every member of the family

  • A charming old millhouse is located on-site, adding a bit of history

10. Relax and Camp at Clearwater Lake

Clearwater Lake in Ocala National Forest is a picturesque destination perfect for families looking to enjoy outdoor activities in a serene, natural environment. This spring-fed lake offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, hiking, and more. 

Best for Families:

  • Car and tent camping

  • The lake features crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming and wading

  • 1.3-mile nature trail; a segment of the 1,400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail

Central Florida is bursting with outdoor opportunities for families to create cherished memories while discovering the beauty of the region. Whether it’s paddling through calm waterways, hiking scenic trails, or spotting wildlife, these adventures offer something for every family dynamic.

Ready to explore? Grab your sunscreen, pack some snacks, and dive into Central Florida’s natural wonders with your loved ones!

 

Drawing a heart into the bioluminescence.
Duration
1 hour 30 minutes
Group Size
3 to 10

Florida Bioluminescence Kayak Adventure

Get ready for a breathtaking adventure with Venture Outdoors' bioluminescence kayak eco-tours, the closest to Orlando, located just an hour away in the Indian River Lagoon and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. These tours offer a magical nighttime experience where the waters come alive with glowing microorganisms called dinoflagellates (pronounce /dī-nō-ˈfla-jə-ləts/). As you paddle through the bioluminescent waters, each stroke of your kayak and movement of marine life ignites a stunning blue-green glow. Operating during the warmer months from June to October, when the bioluminescence is at its peak, Venture Outdoors' tours promise an unforgettable natural spectacle.

Join our tours and embark on this must-do adventure, experiencing the unique beauty that awaits just a short drive from Orlando.

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$65
A delighted paddler captures a moment with a manatee hugging his kayak during a fun day on the water.
Duration
2 hours
Group Size
2 to 10

Manatee Discovery Tour

Get up close and personal with Florida manatees in their natural habitat, without the stress of crowds just 40 minutes from Orlando.

There’s something magical about being on the water… Whether it’s the heart-pounding excitement of spotting a massive manatee gliding just beneath your kayak, the quiet wonder of watching hundreds gather in the crystal-clear spring, or the pure joy of seeing one surface beside you with a gentle puff of air. With calm, scenic waters and Florida’s incredible wildlife all around, you’ll feel the warmth of the sun on your skin as alligators bask lazily on the banks, hear the distant cry of an osprey soaring overhead, and breathe in the fresh, earthy scent of towering cypress trees. Whether you're here for the thrill of a once-in-a-lifetime manatee encounter or the peaceful escape into nature’s beauty, you’ll leave with a deep sense of wonder—and memories to last a lifetime.

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$70
Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
2 to 10

Wekiva River Kayak Explorer

Embark on a wildly fun family adventure with our Wekiva River kayak tour, just 30 minutes from downtown Orlando! The Wekiva River, one of only two National Wild and Scenic rivers in Florida, awaits you with its outstanding beauty and exciting surprises.

Paddle through the captivating landscapes of the Wekiva River, exploring the Seminole State Forest and the Wekiwa Springs State Park. Brace yourselves for the possibility of spotting bears along the way! It's a real treat for the whole family, adding an exciting element to your adventure.

Get ready for a wildlife extravaganza! Depending on the season, you might encounter manatees, alligators, turtles, otters, deer, and even bobcats. The skies above are teeming with Eagles, Osprey, Ibis, Limpkin, and a symphony of Woodpeckers. And don't forget the charming bears that might make a surprise appearance!

As you paddle, marvel at the vibrant riverbanks adorned with Orchids, Bromeliads, Spiderworts, and other exquisite vegetation. Our knowledgeable guides will keep the journey light and entertaining, sharing fascinating facts about the ecosystem and the history of this unique river.

Midway through the tour, take a break for a refreshing swim – a perfect way to cool off and add a splash of excitement to your family adventure. Join us on this eco-friendly, educational, and downright delightful journey along the enchanting Wekiva River!

Couple of kayakers enjoying the callenge of the Blackwater Creek.
Duration
3 hours
Group Size
2 to 6

Nature Escape Kayak Adventure on Blackwater Creek

Join us on our exclusive Blackwater Creek kayak tour, where adventure meets solitude in the heart of Seminole Forest!

As the only authorized tour operator for Blackwater Creek in the Seminole Forest, we offer a unique chance to explore this hidden gem which has been featured in several survival reality shows.

Embark on a 3-hour journey through the pristine wilderness of Blackwater Creek, led by our expert guides. With small group sizes of maximum 6 people, our tours provide a personalized experience, rich with opportunities to learn about Blackwater Creek's ecosystem.

Paddle on this gentle river so secluded and peaceful it's highly unlikely you'll encounter another soul allowing you to immerse yourself completely in nature's embrace. You will likely encounter wildlife such as alligators, turtles, Florida black bears, various wading birds and more. The route varies based on water levels, ensuring each trip is unique.

This tour fills up quickly due to high demand and limited space. If you're ready to escape the crowds and discover the untamed beauty of the Old Florida - the REAL Florida - then book your adventure today and get ready for an unforgettable journey.