FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 1, 2017

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

FLORIDA STATE PARKS WIN "2017 PERFECT IN SOUTH WALTON" AWARDS

~Grayton Beach and Eden Gardens state parks recognized for outstanding beauty~

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection today announced Grayton Beach and Eden Gardens state parks received "2017 Perfect in South Walton" awards. Hosted by Visit South Walton, the Perfect in South Walton Awards celebrate the people, places and businesses that support the growing tourism industry in Walton County.

After receiving the most votes in its categories, Grayton Beach State Park received the Grand Champion awards for the Perfect Sunset View and the Perfect Park or Nature Location for the second year in a row. Eden Gardens State Park was honored with the Award of Excellence for the Perfect Park or Nature Location.

“We are honored to receive this recognition from the Walton County community,” said Patrick Hartsfield, Grayton Beach assistant park manager. “We want to encourage current and new visitors to come out and enjoy the peaceful sunset views, white sand beaches and winding nature trails.”

The ‘perfect in’ distinctions were awarded based on recommendations and online voting from Walton County residents and visitors. This year, more than 8,328 people voted to determine the winners.

Eden Gardens and Grayton Beach state parks welcomed a combined 263,682 visitors in fiscal year 2015-16. For more information about Eden Gardens, please visit the Eden Gardens State Park webpage. For more information about Grayton Beach, please visit the Grayton Beach State Park webpage.

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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