FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 26, 2013
VISIT A STATE PARK OR STATE TRAIL ON THANKSGIVING DAY
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Most state parks and trails are open 365 days a year ~
If you enjoy a traditional turkey feast on
Thanksgiving, get some exercise and work off your meal with a hike at a state
park, like this turkey did at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park. Photo by Paul Strauss.
TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Park
Service invites all Florida residents and visitors to enjoy the
Thanksgiving holiday in a state park. Most of Florida’s state parks will be
open their regular hours, 8 a.m. to sunset on Thursday, Nov. 28. So, after the
feast or when out-of-town visitors or children need to be entertained, head to your
local state park or state trail for a hike, bicycle ride or to soak up the sun.
“This is an excellent
time to enjoy nature, fresh air and Florida’s famous sunshine with family and
friends,” said Donald Forgione, Florida Park Service Director. “I encourage
Floridians to bring their visiting relatives to their local state park for fun
activities and to make unforgettable holiday memories.”
Most of Florida’s
award-winning state parks are open 365 days a year and some museums or
historic sites have different hours, and may be open only five days a week. Visit www.floridastateparks.org
for information about all 171 state parks and trails.
To celebrate the fall
season, Florida's state parks offer a variety of fall festivals and fun family events. Whether you're interested in making family memories, longing for an outdoors trip
or simply looking to take a break, Florida's state parks offer the perfect
setting for outdoor recreation. Visit the website for special events and guided tours, hikes and paddles and ranger programs to
celebrate the fall season.
In October, the Florida State
Parks System won its third Gold Medal of Excellence from the National
Recreation and Parks System. This makes Florida the first
three-time gold medal award recipient. Since 1935, the Florida Park
Service has provided recreational activities, while preserving, interpreting
and restoring natural and cultural resources.
For a list of parks or
activities are closed for Thanksgiving, Nov. 28, click here.
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