Osceola National Forest - Florida

Almost 200,000 acres of original Florida are waiting to be explored at the Osceola National Forest which is made up of pine flatwoods and cypress-hardwood swamps. From camping, hiking, and swimming, to fishing, hunting and wildlife viewing, the forest provides endless opportunities for exploration and outdoor fun. (Some recreational activities require a pass or permit.)

Named after the famous Seminole Indian warrior, Osceola, National Forest has almost completely re-grown since the days of heavy timbering in the early 20th century. Today, this natural, lush, and healthy forest is a blend of low pine ridges, cypress and bay swamps. A 23- mile section of the Florida National Scenic Trail meanders through the Osceola National Forest and boasts 20 boardwalks that offer a drier view of swamps and wetland habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for longleaf and slash pines, saw palmettos and wire grass, cypress, black gum, bay and maple trees, found in the marshier terrain. There's a treat here for history buffs; the Olustee Battlefield, a state Historic Site where Confederate soldiers pushed back Union troops en route to Tallahassee.. Olustee Beach, located on the south side of Ocean Pond provides visitors the opportunity to fish, swim, boat and picnic along scenic shores and relax on the white sandy beach, where showers, toilets, picnic tables, barbeque grills and a covered shelter are available daily. Don't miss the short 1-mile barrier-free historic trail located at Olustee Beach which shows the history of a community that thrived along the shores of Ocean Pond at the turn of the century.

For those who want to spend the night at the forest, there's a primitive camp shelter available on a first come, first serve basis, so be sure to plan ahead for your wild getaway at Osceola National Forest.