Despite the heavy urbanization of Pinellas County, it supports a variety of means for people to get back to nature on the water. Sport fishing and boating are done even in the heavily impacted areas, such as Boca Ciega Bay. Canoeing, kayaking, swimming and nature observation are popular in other parts of the county. In addition, some spoil islands are used for camping. There are several state parks that help ensure these opportunities will remain available. However, Anclote Key Preserve State Park, Caladesi Island State Park and Egmont Key State Park are only accessible by private boat or ferry. Segment 8 of the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail passes through Pinellas County.

• Anclote Key Preserve State Park
• Caladesi Island State Park
• Egmont Key State Park
• Honeymoon Island State Park
• Skyway Fishing Pier State Park
  
  
• Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail - Segment 8