Oleta River State Park

The Oleta River State Park is the largest urban park in the state. It is located on Biscayne Bay, just outside of the City of Miami. The park is best known for its off-road bicycling trails that range from beginner to experienced riders. The north end of the park is home to a mangrove forest preserve. The park is also a popular destination for kayakers and canoeing. The 1,200-feet worth of sandy beach offers plenty of opportunities for swimming and saltwater fishing. There are grills and picnic tables located throughout the park, making it a popular destination for family picnics. There are nine pavilion areas available for rent and all have access to running water. One of the pavilions has an electrical hook-up. Overnight visits are permitted, but visitors must stay in the rustic, air-conditioned cabins. There is also a youth campground without cabins, available for organized groups like scouts and church outings. The most popular feature in the park is the Oleta River. The river has long been a destination for people throughout the area, from the Tequesta Indians to the U.S. troops during the Second Seminole War. At that time, the river was called Big Snake Creek. The area frequently hosts triathlons and other extreme sport events. The park is the headquarters of one of Florida's five AmeriCorps Florida State Parks chapters.