VISIT A FLORIDA STATE PARK ON THANKSGIVING DAY

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Nov. 19, 2012

CONTACT: DEP Press Office, 850.245.2112, DEPNews@dep.state.fl.us

VISIT A FLORIDA STATE PARK ON THANKSGIVING DAY

~Most state parks are open 365 days a year~

turkeys

Wild turkeys roam at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park in Okeechobee.

 

TALLAHASSEE The Florida Park Service would like to invite 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. So after the feast or when out-of-town visitors or children need to be entertained, head to your local state park 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 state parks are open 365 days a year, from 8 a.m. to sunset. Some museums or historic sites have different hours, and may be open only five days a week. Check the Florida State Park website to get more information about your favorite park.

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 some great family memories, longing for a trip to get the kids all back together or simply looking to take a break from our busy lives, Florida's state parks offer the perfect setting for your autumn endeavors. Visit the web site for special events and guided tours, hikes and paddles and ranger programs to celebrate the fall season.

The following parks are closed for Thanksgiving, Nov. 22:

  • Constitution Convention Museum State Park
  • Forest Capital Museum State Park
  • Gamble Plantation Historic State Park – mansion closed only, park open
  • Gasparilla Island State Park – lighthouse museum closed only, park open
  • John Gorrie Museum State Park
  • Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park
  • San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park
  • The Barnacle Historic State Park
  • Ybor City Museum State Park