🏕️ 10 Hidden Gems in Florida You Can Explore by RV (That Don’t Feel Like Florida!)

When most people think “Florida,” they picture theme parks, crowded beaches, and palm trees. But as any seasoned RVer knows, the Sunshine State is full of surprising places that feel like they belong in a different world.

At One Adventure LLC, we specialize in RV rentals that help you explore the other side of Florida—the caves, springs, forests, and tucked-away coastal spots that most tourists miss. Here are 10 incredible RV-friendly destinations that don’t feel like you’re in Florida at all.

1. Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring – Williston, FL

This stunning underground spring feels like something out of a fantasy novel. Crystal-clear water in a cave-like sinkhole, with light beams filtering through a natural opening—it's a bucket-list-worthy dive or snorkel spot.

  • What to do: Snorkel, scuba dive, or stay dry and enjoy the campground.

  • RV Access: On-site RV park with electric/water hookups.

  • Pro Tip: Book reservations early—weekends fill fast!

2. Florida Bat Caves – Withlacoochee State Forest

Florida has its own bat caves—and you can explore them with a ranger-led tour in the Withlacoochee State Forest. The terrain is hilly (yes, really!) and forested, giving it a Georgia or Tennessee feel.

  • What to do: Hike, explore caves (with a permit), birdwatch, or camp under oaks.

  • RV Access: Nearby campgrounds with RV sites available at Silver Lake and Tillis Hill.

3. Cayo Costa State Park – Off the Gulf Coast near Fort Myers

Accessible only by ferry or private boat, Cayo Costa feels more like the Caribbean than Florida. Unspoiled beaches, seashells, and no cars—just wild beauty.

  • What to do: Swim, shell, hike, or rent kayaks.

  • RV Access: Park your RV at nearby Pine Island or Boca Grande, and ferry in for a day trip.

4. 🐠 Dry Tortugas National Park – Key West (by boat or seaplane)

OK, this one definitely doesn’t feel like Florida—it feels like an island in the middle of the ocean. Fort Jefferson’s massive historic structure, surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs, makes it an epic day trip from Key West.

  • What to do: Snorkel, explore the fort, or relax on a secluded beach.

  • RV Access: Camp at Boyd’s Campground in Key West and book a ferry or seaplane.

5. Falling Waters State Park – Chipley, FL

Yes—Florida has waterfalls! This state park is home to the tallest waterfall in the state, dropping 73 feet into a deep sinkhole. The forested hills make it feel like the Appalachian foothills.

  • What to do: Hike, photograph, and enjoy the cooler Panhandle air.

  • RV Access: On-site campground with full hookups and quiet, shady sites.

6. Ichetucknee Springs State Park – Fort White, FL

With spring-fed rivers that stay 72°F year-round, Ichetucknee is perfect for tubing and kayaking. The crystal-clear water and tree-lined riverbanks make this feel more like North Carolina than Florida.

  • What to do: Tube, snorkel, paddle, or hike the Blue Hole Trail.

  • RV Access: Multiple RV parks within 5–10 minutes of the park.

7. Cedar Key – Old Florida’s Island Time

This sleepy island town on Florida’s Nature Coast feels like stepping back in time. No chain stores, no high-rises—just salty air, art galleries, and quiet sunsets.

  • What to do: Kayak to nearby islands, eat fresh seafood, or relax in town.

  • RV Access: Several small RV parks in town; Shell Mound and Cedar Key RV Resort are good options.

8. Blowing Rocks Preserve – Jupiter Island, FL

Wave-sculpted limestone rocks create dramatic blowholes at high tide, giving this Atlantic-side beach an almost Hawaiian vibe.

  • What to do: Walk the trails, watch the waves crash through the rocks, or visit nearby Hobe Sound.

  • RV Access: Jonathan Dickinson State Park is nearby and has full hookup RV sites.

9. Navarre Beach – Florida Panhandle

Quieter and less commercial than Destin or Panama City, Navarre Beach boasts emerald water, white sand, and a laid-back atmosphere that feels more Gulf Coast than tourist trap.

  • What to do: Swim, fish off the pier, visit the Sea Turtle Conservation Center.

  • RV Access: Navarre Beach Campground is beachfront and well-equipped.

10. Ybor City – Tampa, FL

Want something totally different? Ybor City blends old-world Cuban charm with cigar history, art, nightlife, and authentic culture.

  • What to do: Visit a cigar factory, eat Cuban sandwiches, take a historic streetcar tour.

  • RV Access: Stay just outside the city in nearby campgrounds like Bay Bayou or Lazydays RV Resort.

Bonus: Paynes Prairie Preserve – Micanopy, FL (Near Gainesville)

This massive savanna is home to wild horses, bison, and hundreds of bird species. On a misty morning, it feels more like Yellowstone than Florida.

  • What to do: Wildlife watching, hiking, cycling, or climbing the observation tower for panoramic views.

  • RV Access: Full hookup sites available at the main campground; close to downtown Micanopy’s antique shops.

Ready to Hit the Road?

Each of these spots offers something unique—whether you're chasing clear springs, exploring caves, or relaxing on a remote island beach. And with an RV from One Adventure LLC, you can skip the hotels, stay closer to nature, and truly enjoy the ride.

Want help planning your RV getaway to one of these hidden gems? We’ll help you match the right rig to your adventure and offer route recommendations to make the most of your Florida escape.

📍Let’s go off the beaten path—because the best parts of Florida are the ones no one told you about.

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