Rediscover Florida - 100 Ways in 100 Days

When it comes to outdoor recreation, living in Florida tops the chart. With the Atlantic Ocean on one coast and the Gulf of Mexico on the other, and hundreds of lakes, rivers and springs in between, Floridians can choose from a myriad of activities. Choices range from swimming, boating, water skiing, surfing, paddling, scuba diving, fishing, kayaking, canoeing and snorkeling -- and that is just for water-related entertainment. In and around Florida’s 160 award-winning state parks and miles upon miles of greenways and trails, and three National Estuarine Research Reserves opportunities await no matter your leisure pursuit, no matter your age and no matter your budget. There are outlets for hiking, biking, rollerblading, horseback riding, birding, kayaking and kite-flying to name just a few.

But if for some reason you can’t come up with what to do with your spare time, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is stepping up to help get the ball rolling. Tagged as Rediscover Florida -- 100 Ways in 100 Days, the suggestions will ignite a spark that will inspire you to get out and explore Florida’s natural areas. The new campaign is geared toward those lucky enough to live in the Sunshine State, and those who just love to visit.

The list of 100 ideas covers a broad range of activities. How about a visit to the famed River of Grass where alligators rule and wading birds dine on their favorite cuisine? Or a paddling adventure along the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail for a day trip or a 1,600 mile adventure? Hike, bike or saddle up for part or all of the 16-mile trek along the Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail to the St. Marks River and dine on delicious local seafood before heading back.

History buffs can go back in time with several battle reenactments and by visiting any of the seven fort-based state parks. Those who are into wildlife are in for a real treat with dozens, if not hundreds, of species that inhabit the state’s parks, greenways and aquatic preserves, rookeries and estuaries. From majestic bald eagles to colorful roseate spoonbills, Florida black bears and panthers, otters, manatees and gopher tortoises, to tiny Key deer, pileated woodpeckers, Southern flying and Sherman’s fox squirrels – they all call Florida home. In winter, take up right whale watching along Florida’s Atlantic coast parks and reserves for a real treat.

If just enjoying nature and the beautiful outdoors is more your style, there are miles of beaches and acres of shade trees to sit under, read a book, people-watch or catch a few zzz’s. Spend an evening under the stars listening to music, viewing the stars through a telescope or even camping out under the stars. Attend the 54th annual Florida Folk Festival and discover the lost art of blacksmithing and listen to some foot-stomping banjo and fiddle playing while feasting on true southern recipes. Or with the typical beautiful March weather, it might be just the right time to join other paddlers on the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail for “Paddle Florida,” a 123-mile journey down the famous river.

Want to add to your collection of knowledge? Education centers and programs at all three of Florida’s National Estuarine Research Reserves provide fun experiences for those who want to learn more about botony, birds, blue crabs or bays. Looking for a new hobby? Learn to quilt, flint knap an arrowhead, handcraft pottery or identify birds through the many workshops offered at state parks.

“I’m bored, there’s nothing to do,” is just not a valid complaint in Florida. For 100 ideas to help you Rediscover Florida and satisfy your recreational hunger, go to www.dep.state.fl.us.