FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 30, 2017

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

Celebrate Fourth of July Weekend at a Florida State Park

~Many state parks will be hosting events for Independence Day weekend~

Visit bald eagles at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Celebrate Fourth of July weekend at one of the many Florida state parks hosting events. From traditional picnics to 5K races, Florida residents and visitors are sure to have a great time outdoors this Independence Day weekend with friends and family.

"The Fourth of July is a great time to enjoy Florida's environment with family and friends," said Florida State Park Assistant Director Chuck Hatcher. "I encourage all Florida residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day at a state park."

Florida State Park events provide the opportunity to connect communities with the diverse wildlife and nature native to our state. Events include:

• Highlands Hammock State Park is hosting its 23rd Annual Firecracker 5K Run/Walk. This Central Florida Striders Fourth of July holiday race is one of the highlights of the summer with many running enthusiasts. Participants range from eight-years-old to 80. Race entry forms are available at the Ranger Station, and you may register before or on race day.
• The Barnacle Historic State Park is holding an old-fashioned picnic for all to enjoy. Celebrate the holiday with hot food, live music, games, crafts and fun for the whole family.
• Curry Hammock State Park invites the public to attend its guided nature trail walk. Join a ranger for a one-hour guided walk along a moderately difficult, 1.5-mile hiking trail. Come out and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the hammock and take in the flora and fauna of the Florida Keys.
• Oleta River State Park will allow participants to “walk on water” as they learn to stand-up paddleboard. Dry land, launching and mounting instructions will be given to beginners as they try their hand at a new water sport.

For more information about these events and others, visit the Florida State Parks events calendar.

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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