Visit Any Florida State Park For Free Today

July 13, 2008

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Today is your chance to visit any Florida stare park for free. All state parks will waive admission charges all day today.

To celebrate July as Recreation and Parks Month, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Recreation & Parks is encouraging family-friendly,outdoor recreation with the launch of its “Family. Friends. Fun. Campaign” to reconnect children and families with nature.

Some of the state parks in our area include: Big Lagoon State Park near Pensacola, Perdido Key State Park on Perdido Key and Florida Caverns State Park (pictured above) near Marianna

Since 1985, the National Recreation and Park Association has designated July as Recreation and Parks Month. To celebrate this designation, Florida is waiving admission to all state parks today.

“Recreation and Parks Month is an excellent time for family and friends to visit a state park and experience …the Real Florida,” said DEP Secretary Michael W. Sole. “State parks provide a multitude of activities that promote mental and physical well being.”

The Family. Friends. Fun. Campaign is hosting events in state parks that appeal to individuals and families of all ages and interests this July during Recreation and Parks Month. On Sunday, July 13, entry into all 161 state parks will be free, providing an opportunity for everyone to head outdoors and experience Florida State Parks.

“Without the encouragement of parents and friends, children are less likely to play outdoors and gain exposure to natural resources and nature-based recreation,” said Florida State Parks Director Mike Bullock. “Establishing a healthy relationship with nature during childhood is a valuable habit that will benefit individuals and society as a whole for years.”

The first two-time Gold Medal winner honoring the nation’s best state park service, Florida’s state park system is one of the largest in the country with 161 parks spanning almost 700,000 acres and 100 miles of sandy white beaches.

From swimming and diving in Florida’s rivers and springs to birding and fishing or hiking and riding on natural scenic trails, Florida’s state parks offer year-around outdoor activities for all ages. Battle re-enactments and Native American festivals celebrate Florida’s unique history, while art shows, museums and lighthouses offer a window into Florida’s cultural heritage.

For more information about Florida State Parks and activities scheduled for July 13 and throughout Recreation and Parks Month, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org. For more information on the national initiative to connect children and nature, visit http://www.childrenandnature.org/.

Pictured above: The Florida State Caverns Park near Marianna. NorthEscambia.com photo, click to enlarge.

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