Cooler weather can ignite a sense of exploration and adventure in Florida's residents and visitors. Whether it's hiking, horseback riding, biking or paddling, our unique natural landscape provides endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation. DEP has compiled a Fall Activity Guide to help you navigate all of the outdoor activities and special events being offered statewide this season. To learn more about fall foliage in Northwest Florida, see DEP's Fall Activity Book for Kids.

November is Florida Paddlesports Month

To celebrate Florida Paddlesports Month and the 100th anniversary of the National Park System, residents and visitors are invited to participate in the Florida National Parks Centennial Paddle Challenge. A log sheet is available for download so participants can track their progress in meeting a goal of paddling 100 miles or more in one of Florida's national parks, preserves and seashores. For those who wish to explore Florida's waterways in a more leisurely fashion, Florida State Parks are hosting various ranger-led paddle tours across the state this month. 

Kayak Tours at Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Nov. 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 25, 28, 29, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Join a Rookery Bay naturalist on this two-hour guided tour, exploring the mangrove bays, creeks and rookeries that make the Reserve a valuable treasure. This is a beginners trip and includes brief paddling instruction. Please arrive at the launch site, Shell Island Road, 30 minutes prior to departure time. 

Guided Paddle at Oscar Scherer State Park
Nov. 9, 16, 23, 30, 9 a.m.

Learn more about the wildlife in South Creek on this educational guided tour through Oscar Scherer State Park. Rent or bring your own kayak for this outdoor adventure and don't forget to pack your binoculars for wildlife sightings. As South Creek is a tidal water, there may be times when it is too shallow for paddling. In those cases, a guided walk will be an alternative.

Kayak Tour at Curry Hammock State Park
Nov. 9, 16, 23, 30, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Explore the ecosystem of Curry Hammock State Park on this 90-minute guided kayak tour. Rangers will share ongoing efforts to preserve this valuable resource as you paddle around the island. Visitors can rent or bring their own kayaks.

Guided Kayak Trip at Lake Kissimmee State Park
Nov. 16, 9 a.m. - noon

Take a 90-minute trip down Zipper Canal, which flows through the central part of Lake Kissimmee State Park to Lake Rosalie. This ranger-led kayak tour will give you an appreciation of the flora and fauna found in the area. Tours are limited to six kayaks - bring your own or rent one from the camp store in the park.

Sunrise Canoe Tour at Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Nov. 26, 6:30 - 9 a.m.

Watch the sunrise and get an early start to your morning on this guided kayak tour down Ichetucknee Springs. With the warm mist rising off the water and the sun shining through the fall leaves, there truly is no better way to start the day. Kayak launching will be at 6:30 a.m. Don't forget to set an alarm. 

For more paddling events in your area, click here. 

Fall Festivals & Special Events

A variety of seasonal festivals and special events are coming to Florida this month - the perfect opportunity to try something new and exciting, and spend quality time with friends and family. 

Stargazing at Henderson Beach State Park
Nov. 4, 3 - 9 p.m.

Observe star clusters, planets and galaxies on a serene fall night. Volunteers from the Northwest Florida Astronomy Association will set up telescopes and be on hand to answer questions about the night sky during this free event. Be sure to get to the park before sunset, as no one will be admitted into the park after the gates close.

Marjorie's Hoecake Hoedown at Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park
Nov. 6, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Sample a variety of classic cornbreads, from hushpuppies to hoecakes, as described by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings in her books Cross Creek & Cross Creek Cookery. Cornbread cooking demonstrations will be done during historic house tours only at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., prior to the tasting event.

America Recycles Day at Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Nov. 15, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

In celebration of America Recycles Day, the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center is offering Buy One, Get One free admission. The center offers a variety of hands-on experiences, including a 2,300-gallon aquarium and interactive exhibits addressing research and stewardship efforts, as well as a nature store, gallery and picnic area. 

For more festivals and special events in your area, click here. 

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