FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 11, 2017

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

Florida Park Service Celebrates Groundbreaking for
New Campground at Colt Creek State Park
in Polk County

~New campground will feature 28 campsites and restroom facilities~

Florida Park Service representatives join state and local officials to celebrate breaking ground on the 28 site campground.

LAKELAND, Fla. – Today, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Park Service joined Sen. Kelli Stargel, Rep. Colleen Burton, Friends of Colt Creek State Park and other local representatives for a groundbreaking ceremony, announcing the construction of new campground facilities at Colt Creek State Park.

The new campground will include 28 campsites and one bathhouse. Camping facilities include three accessible RV sites, four tent sites and two additional tent sites with mobility features. The $2 million project is expected to be completed in January 2018.

“The department is proud to partner with Polk County and the Friends of Colt Creek State Park to benefit Florida’s residents and visitors,” said Gary Clark, DEP deputy secretary for land and recreation. “This new campground will offer park visitors an opportunity to explore the Lakeland area and enjoy the natural treasures right here in Central Florida.”

“The Friends of Colt Creek State Park are excited to help make this campground available to the community,” said Paula Dockery, president of the Friends of Colt Creek State Park. “As we begin phase one of this project on the tenth anniversary of the park, it’s great to see so much enthusiasm for the park and campground with our partners today.”

“This project is a great example of the good things that can happen when we all join together to get something done for our community,” said Florida Sen. Kelli Stargel. “I can’t think of a better setting for people to enjoy the natural beauty of Florida than Colt Creek State Park.”

“The park enhances the quality of life of Polk County residents,” said Florida Rep. Colleen Burton. “I am very pleased to see this project and look forward to the expanded recreation opportunities for our local community as well as all visitors to Florida.”

“Colt Creek State Park is a hidden gem and a great place to experience the beauty of natural Florida," said Congressman Dennis Ross. "I am thrilled to see this new opportunity for our community.”

Colt Creek State Park encompasses 5,067 acres and offers more than 15 miles of beautiful, multi-use trails which provide hiking, biking and and equestrian opportunities. These trails meander through the pine flatwoods around cypress domes, bottomland forest and vast open pastures. Three tributaries flow through the park including Little Gator Creek, Gator Creek and the park's namesake Colt Creek.

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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