If there's something Florida does well, it's nature. Even small Deltona has a nature preserve, the Lyonia Environmental Center, where visitors can learn about the region's unique "scrub" ecosystem. There, you can hike, go birdwatching, and look for the diverse wildlife in the area, from nine-banded armadillos to grey foxes.
Deltona also prides itself on its 21 parks, several of which are particularly notable. Vann Park has community gardens, baseball fields, and picnic areas, while Campbell Park offers a waterfront boardwalk, playgrounds, hiking trails, a beach volleyball court, a floating dock for fishing, a tennis court, and a two-story gazebo overlooking the lake. Meanwhile, Thornby Park, which bills itself as an "Inspiration Playground," borders the St. John River and features a network of playground structures and kid-friendly spots. There are boat launches all around Lake Monroe, but no boat rental companies in the area, so you'll have to bring in your own kayaks or pontoons.
You can charter an airboat ride around the Lake Monroe conservation area, a marshy area around the lake about 15 minutes from Deltona in Sanford. Additionally, about 25 miles from Deltona, between Orlando and Daytona, there's a pristine, "secret" river where you can boat, hike, view historical markers, and catch glimpses of manatees and gators.
One perk of being a Deltona resident is the discounted Volusia County rates for parking at and driving on beaches. Deltona is about 30 minutes from the nearest beaches, like New Smyrna and Daytona, and parking at these beaches can cost between $20 and $30 per day if you haven't bought an annual pass. However, Volusia County residents who register can receive free on- and off-beach parking on county-owned beaches and lots.