This massive park was Hugh Taylor Birch's donation to the state of Florida. Birch came to Florida in the latter part of the 19th Century and promptly fell in love with the area. He eventually purchased more than three miles of oceanfront property in the little town of Fort Lauderdale. More than a century later, Fort Lauderdale is now a busy metropolis, and Birch's land thrives as a wildlife preserve and botanical wonderland. Several animal and plant species have found a safe home here. Visitors are free to hike or bike the designated trails, canoe around the lagoon, take a dip in the ocean and visit Birch's home. Excellent camping facilities can also be availed here.

Located to the west of Oakdale, Easterlin Park, officially designated an "urban wilderness area," offers a relaxing retreat among lush green trees. The park also provides a campground with shaded sites, all with electricity, picnic tables and grills. Campground amenities include restrooms and showers. Easterlin Park is popular amongst disk golfers for their courses. Disk golfing and barbecue grills, offer groups and families a nice bonding experience.

A great park for the hiking enthusiast, this 247-acre (99.95-hectare) "urban wilderness area" and wildlife refuge contains numerous hiking trails, that can be used by everyone, including a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk. Recreational and educative activities are regularly organized at Fern Forest Nature Park. The nature center also includes a butterfly bridge, an observation platform, a sensory garden and sculptures. Call for additional information.

Located on either side of Coconut Creek's Sample Road, Tradewinds Park offers 627 acres (253.73 hectares) of tranquility. The north side of the park includes a farm and farmhouse museum, that aims at providing education along with recreation. Guests can enjoy pony rides, guided horse trail rides or hop onto a steam train that operates once a month. The south area features a fishing lake with pier, disc golf course and trails for walking and hiking. South Florida's famous attraction, Butterfly World, is also nestled here.

Comprising serene 60 acres (24.28 hectares), the Flamingo Gardens have an impressive collection of rare tropical plants, massive oaks, native birds and other tropical critters. The gardens are one of the region's few remaining citrus groves and are home to a large collection of wading birds. You can chug around the grounds on a narrated tram tour or explore the Wray Botanical Collection and historic Wray Home.

299 acres (121 hectares) of pure fun await you at the C.B. Smith Park, located in the heart of Pembroke Pines. The perfect place to take your kin, this park is crammed with excitement. Waterslides, a private beach and lagoon, a lake, tennis and basketball courts, miniature golf and much more await you. You can go canoeing or biking or maybe just relax at the on-site snack bar. This venue is known to organize great family picnics and events, such as hayrides and concerts. Campsites are available too.