FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 23, 2016

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

FLORIDA STATE PARKS ARE OPEN FOR THANKSGIVING

~Give thanks with family and friends at one of your local state parks~

Come and spend quality time with family and friends at one of your local state parks this Thanksgiving Day! While many businesses around the state are closed for the holiday, most of Florida’s state parks are open from 8 a.m. to sunset on Thursday Nov. 24. Bring a picnic for an outdoor Thanksgiving feast or take a hike to walk off that pie.

“Florida's state parks provide the perfect setting for spending time with loved ones,” Florida Park Service Director Donald Forgione said. “Bring your family and friends out to a Florida state park where you can give thanks while enjoying natural Florida.”

The state of Florida boasts 174 state parks, trails and historic sites that provide an abundance of family friendly activities including hiking, fishing, swimming and biking. Many parks are hosting special events this holiday season and throughout the year ranging from kayak tours to war re-enactments. To find an event at a park near you, click here.  

To find a list of parks or activities that are closed for Thanksgiving, click 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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