Today, Governor Rick Scott announced that Florida State Parks will be offering free admission at Florida’s 174 state parks for all families and visitors tomorrow, Veterans Day, in recognition of all those who have served and are currently serving in our U.S. military. Year-round, Florida's state parks offer special deals on Annual Entrance Passes to those who currently serve or have served in the United States military branches, veterans with service related disabilities and surviving spouses of members of the U.S. military who have fallen in combat.
Governor Scott said, “Honoring our military members and veterans is an incredible priority across our state. This Veterans Day, I encourage all Floridians to take a moment to recognize our many military heroes and thank them for their selfless service. I also hope families and visitors will take this opportunity to visit the best state parks in the country free of charge and enjoy the beautiful state our veterans have worked so hard to protect.”
DEP Secretary Jon Steverson said, “I am proud to offer free entry to all visitors to Florida State Parks this Veterans Day. Florida’s state parks preserve much of our state's wartime history and provide a great opportunity for reflection as we thank those who have served our country.”
In celebration of Veterans Day, several parks are hosting special events this weekend:
- Topsail Hill Preserve State Park hosts Veterans - Past, Present, and Future on November 12, 2016.
- Fort Clinch State Park holds the annual History of the American Soldier on November 12, 2016.
- Learn about the role Jonathan Dickinson State Park Played in World War II with an instillation calledCamp Murphy.
*This offer does not include the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park. All other use fees, such as overnight accommodations and tours, will be charged as usual on Nov. 11, 2016.
In addition to offering springs, beaches and forests, Florida State Parks also include an abundance of historical and military sites. One of these parks is Fort Clinch – a fort located on Amelia Island that served as a base in 1864. At Orman House Historic State Park in Apalachicola, visitors can pay respect to Vietnam veterans at the park’s Three Servicemen Statue, a bronze replica of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C. Learn more about annual entrance passes and discounts HERE.
About Florida State Parks, Greenways and Trails: The Florida Park Service is the proud recipient of three National Gold Medals for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, making Florida America’s first three-time Gold Medal winner. The awards were received in 1999, 2005 and 2013 from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and the National Recreation and Park Association.
Florida’s 174 state parks, trails and historic sites inspire residents and visitors with recreation opportunities and scenic beauty that help strengthen families, educate children, expand local economies and foster community pride. With nearly 800,000 acres, 100 miles of beaches and more than 1,500 miles of multi-use trails, residents and visitors should plan to visit soon and often to enjoy Florida’s natural treasures. Download the Florida State Parks Pocket Ranger® mobile app, available on iTunes and Android Market, to plan your trip and enhance your experience. For more information, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org
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