Pack your bags and hit the road for some fun in the Sunshine State. With its theme parks and family-friendly attractions, Orlando is the perfect spot to start your trip. You can visit the Magic Kingdom or see a few alligators at Gatorland. As you head toward the Gulf of Mexico, take time to visit some other fantastic cities, such as Tampa and Sanibel. Once you reach Naples, you can relax on the sugary white beaches or visit the famous Naples Pier. With this road trip itinerary from Orlando to Naples, you will not miss a moment of fun in Florida.
Florida is home to three national parks. Take a break from your Orlando to Naples road trip and visit these natural wonders.
Biscayne National Park
Located an hour away from Miami, Biscayne National Park encompasses the coral reefs, shoreline mangrove forests, and islands of the northern Florida Keys. Most of the park is only accessible by boat. If you don't have a boat, rentals are available at the park office. For those nature lovers, you will want to head over to Biscayne Bay Lagoon. This location is home to the park's pelicans, dolphins, and turtles. Biscayne is a popular spot for divers and snorkelers. On the underwater Maritime Heritage Trail, you can head under the waves and check out the shipwrecks. Boca Chita Key has some of the best views in the park. In addition to that, the nearby Boca Chita Lighthouse is open for visitors.
Everglades National Park
During your Orlando to Naples RV road trip, you should take a day to explore the famous Everglades National Park. This protected wetland preserves over 1.5 million acres of pine flatwoods, coastal mangroves, and sawgrass marshes, and it is located on the southern tip of Florida. It is also home to several endangered species, including the West Indian manatee, leatherback turtle, and Florida panther. The Everglades National Park provides plenty of opportunities for backcountry camping, hiking, and bird-watching.
Dry Tortugas National Park
It can be a journey to reach Dry Tortugas National Park, but it is worth the time and effort. If you plan to visit the park, you will need to drive to Key West and take a ferry to the main island. This national park is located in the Gulf of Mexico, and it covers several islands and coral reefs. The main attraction is the 19th-century Fort Jefferson at Garden Key. If you want to see a few sea turtles and the historic lighthouse, you may want to head over to Loggerhead Key. The sunken Windjammer Wreck is a popular site for divers. Bird-watchers will definitely want to check out Bush Key and the sooty terns.
Along with the national parks, Florida is home to some fantastic state parks. From rugged beaches to crystal-clear spring waters, there are plenty of places to visit on your Orlando to Naples road trip.
Silver Springs State Park
At one time, Silver Springs State Park was known as the Silver River State Park. This park is home to the largest artesian spring in the United States. Silver Springs holds the distinction as the first tourist attraction in the state of Florida. Since the 1870s, visitors from all over the country have headed down to visit this natural wonder. Today, visitors can take a tour in a glass-bottom boat to see the fish and plants in the crystal-clear waters. You can even explore the river in a kayak or canoe. Silver Springs State Park is also an excellent spot to hit the trails and see the native wildlife.
Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park is one of the largest winter gathering spots for manatees in Florida. You can see hundreds of these creatures relaxing in the constant 72-degree spring waters during the colder months. From the boardwalk, you will be able to view the manatees in the spring waters. This walkway stretches from the St. John River to the headspring. If you want to enjoy other activities, Blue Springs State Park is a great place to paddleboard, swim, and snorkel.
Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda State Park is often considered one of the best beaches in Florida. Visitors have been flocking to this location since the early 1900s. It is the perfect location to enjoy that classic Florida scenery of gin-clear waters and palm-lined beaches. If you are there in the evening, don't miss out on the magnificent sunsets. You can rent gear for snorkeling and kayak trips at this park. Boat excursions will take you to the coral reefs so that you can explore these colorful natural wonders.
Don't forget to schedule some time to check out these exciting attractions on your road trip from Orlando to Naples.
Magic Kingdom Park
If you want to visit the top attraction in North America, then head to the Magic Kingdom. This location was the first of four theme parks built by the Walt Disney Company. When you visit Mickey and friends, you can also explore Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty Square, and Main Street USA.
Gatorland
Located in Central Florida, this "Alligator Capital of the World" covers over 100 acres of land. At this spot, you can see thousands of alligators and crocodiles swimming in the waters or resting on land. There are special presentations throughout the day, and many of them feature these reptiles in action. Along with that, you can also tour the park in an off-road swamp vehicle or test your bravery on the zip lines.
Naples Pier
When you arrive in Naples, you definitely want to visit the famous pier. The Naples Pier juts out into the Gulf of Mexico. At this spot, you can get an undisturbed view of the blue Gulf waters and white sand beaches. If you want a day of fun in the sun, grab some accessories at the beach store or pick up a snack at the concession stand.
You will pass through several big and small towns on your Orlando to Naples road trip. Many of these spots have comfortable accommodations for your rig. If you want to find a sanitary dump station, there are plenty of options along the route.
Kissimmee
If you are starting out in Orlando, you might want to spend the night in Kissimmee. This Central Florida city is close to all the theme parks, such as Universal Studios Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando, and Walt Disney World. If you want to escape those busy crowds, then make sure to visit Lake Tohopekaliga. This hidden spot is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a few water activities, including fishing and boating. Since Kissimmee is a top tourist destination, you will have no problems finding a great campground for the night.
Tampa
Tampa is one of the top business centers in Florida. Along with that, it also has some great theme parks and attractions. While in town, you should visit Busch Gardens with its thrill rides and attractions. Several museums are located throughout the city, including the Salvador Dali Museum, Henry B. Plant Museum, and Ybor City Museum State Park. After a day of exploring, there are several spots to pull in your rig and camp for the evening. If you need a place to clean out your waste tanks, there are a few dump stations around the Tampa area.
Sanibel
Sanibel is considered a beach paradise. If you love to collect shells, this is the spot for you. While on the island, make sure to visit the 19th-century Sanibel Lighthouse. With its fishing pier and boardwalk, this area is popular with visitors. For those nature lovers, take some time to visit the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Campgrounds are scattered around the island and the surrounding areas. You will definitely find a spot that can accommodate your RV.
When you follow this road trip itinerary from Orlando to Naples, you will enjoy historic locations and beautiful scenery along the way. If you want to travel in comfort and style, consider an RV rental from RVshare. From large motorhomes to compact campervans, there is a rig that will meet your travel and budget needs. Once you hit the road, you are protected by our renter guarantee and 24/7 roadside assistance. Find the perfect vehicle for your travel needs in Orlando or Naples.
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