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This vast wilderness is truly off the beaten path for most South Florida visitors. Hunters make up most of the traffic during the season, although the area is also popular with off-road ATVs. If visiting during hunting season, wear fluorescent colors (like a bright orange vest). Camping is permitted throughout much of the area, but expect the absolute minimum in the way of facilities. Occasionally, the Everglades Youth Conservation Camp is rumored to allow thru-hikers to camp on its premises.
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This small remaining segment of the once-massive Hungryland Slough offers wilderness areas similar to those in the neighboring Loxahatchee Slough and Corbett areas. Multi-use trails include the sandy 4 mi South Loop Trail and sections of much longer trails.
Formerly a working livestock range, this state-owned area provides a similar experience to the adjacent Corbett WMA without the hassle of getting a permit. Activities include 35 mi of hiking trails and primitive campsites, along with an equestrian center with horses, paddocks, campsites and 40 mi of equestrian trails. Take care during hunting season.
Palm Beach County's largest natural area features nine different native Florida ecosystems, ranging from swampy slough marches to dry hammock forests. Trails include short, paved paths and portions of much longer trails like the Ocean to Lake Trail that spans much of northern Palm Beach County. The main entrance also has a fishing pier and observation tower, and a 2 mi kayaking trail is available in the area's south end. Most trails are open to bikers and equestrians; if approached by a horse, yield and proceed carefully.
It's immediately northwest of Riverbend Park, and is most notable for its blackwater streams that feed the Loxahatchee River and its historic and cultural resources, including the site of the Loxahatchee River Battle during the 1838 Seminole War. The planned Jupiter-Indiantown Trail runs from Riverbend Park through the area, and horses, canoes, and kayaks are also welcome.
One of the most popular outdoor recreation spots in the county, this park in Jupiter serves as the hub for all the longer hiking trails in the area, while boasting 10 mi of hiking/biking trails, 7 mi of equestrian trails and 5 mi of kayaking trails of its own. Situated at the headwaters of the Loxahatchee River, the park is especially popular among bikers. Most trails are short and easy. Canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available to rent.
An Everglades habitat roughly the size of Manhattan, this area serves as the freshwater supply for much of the area. A nature center near the north entrance hosts rotating exhibits on the history of the Everglades and acts as the starting point for occasional guided walks. The nearby 1 mi Cypress Boardwalk is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, while the longer Hog Hammock and Apoxee Trails and behemoth 16.6 mi Owahee Trail offer more adventurous hikers a view of the park's stunning natural areas and wildlife. Many of the trails are also open to bikes; check before leaving that none of them are closed as they tend to flood after especially heavy rain. Only Gator Lake, north of the nature center on the other side of Northlake Blvd, welcomes canoes, kayaks and catch-and-release fishing.