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January 2016

A Newsletter of Florida State Parks  |  #FLStateParks

Kissimmee Preserve Prairie designated Dark Sky Park for astronomers

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park has been designated an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association. The first state park in Florida to be a designated dark-sky location, Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park has more than 53,000 acres for people who want to explore Florida.

Located in a remote area of south central Florida in Okeechobee and Osceola Counties, the night sky around Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park is a cultural and natural resource and is one of the best in the peninsula of Florida. Several astronomy groups venture to the preserve for imagery, to capture photos, star hop, or simply to gaze at the universe.

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park is the first state park to build an astronomy pad dedicated for the use of observing the night sky. Darkness plays a significant role in the health of wildlife and humans.

At the preserve, light pollution, which is the excessive use of artificial light, does not threaten star-gazers and enthusiasts from getting prime visuals of the night sky.

The Florida Park Service strives to preserve and maintain native Florida landscape for generations to come. This park provides a place where visitors can come to connect with the stars.

A public ceremony will be held on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016 to celebrate this designation. More information about this and the International Dark Sky Association can be found at www.IDA.org or www.FloridaStateParks.org.

This month at State Parks, Trails and Historic Sites

Events in January

22nd Annual Ford & Mustang Roundup Silver Springs State Park, Ocala Saturday, Jan. 9, 10 a.m. Enjoy the classics with hobbyists and friends at the 22nd Annual Ford & Mustang Roundup. The Roundup has no judges. Whether classic or modern, stock or modified, you're welcome to attend. National Parts Depot will be on hand showcasing its products. Registration to display your car must be turned in by January 1 or fee is $10.

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2016 Americana Concert Series Camp Helen State Park, Panama City Beach Saturday, Jan. 9 & Jan. 23 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.   Camp Helen State Park will host The Americana Concert Series with five live performances starting in January throughout the month of March. The January series will kick off by highlighting folk rock trio The Currys and folk heritage duo Steve Gillette and Cindy Mangsen. Both performances promise rich harmony, compelling songs and a good dose of humor.

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Panhandle Outdoor Recreation Workshop Gulf Coast State College, Panama City Saturday, Jan. 19, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.    The Florida Panhandle Outdoor Recreation Workshop, a project of Florida's Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), will be conducted to present materials on and discuss health and economic benefits, improving public access, reconnecting people to the outdoors and more.

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The Florida Challenge Alafia River State Park, Lithia Sunday, Jan. 24, 8 a.m. Runner's World has named the Florida Challenge as one of the best 32 trail runs in the country. Alafia River State Park has some of the state’s best single track trails. While the trails are tough, they are great fun. Go to TampaRaces.com for registration and complete information.

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