FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 14, 2018

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

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

~Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Opens New Facilities~ 

LAKELAND, Fla. – Today, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Florida Park Service joined local officials for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for new campground facilities at Colt Creek State Park.

The new facilities include 28 campsites and one bathhouse. The camping facilities include three accessible RV sites, four tent sites and two additional tent sites with mobility features.

"This project serves as a great example of the power of partnerships and working with our local communities," said Noah Valenstein, DEP Secretary. "As we go for a record fourth gold medal for our parks system, it's incredible to see the support from the Friends of Colt Creek State Park, our volunteers and our many other partners."

"Colt Creek State Park is an absolute jewel here in Central Florida," said Eric Draper, Florida Park Service Director. "A big thank you to our park staff and the community for making this dream a reality now that thousands of visitors will be able to enjoy this park each year."

"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 open this beautiful campground, it's great to see so much enthusiasm for the park with our partners today."

"Besides hiking and fishing and all of the other available activities at Colt Creek State Park, the serene atmosphere invites you to relax and enjoy this beautiful Florida old heritage scenery," said Florida Sen. Kelli Stargel. "By adding camping to the options of activities, people will be able to come and stay for a while. This will open up whole new possibilities for visitors in and out of our area to enjoy Polk County."

“Florida State Parks protect some of Florida’s most amazing natural resources and offer countless recreation opportunities for Floridians and visitors,” said Florida Rep. Ben Albritton. “I want to congratulate DEP’s Florida Park Service and the Friends of Colt Creek State Park for completing this important project. I was proud to to support Governor Rick Scott’s recommendation to increase funding for projects that will further enhance our state park system, and look forward to celebrating more projects like this one.”

Colt Creek State Park encompasses 5,067 acres and offers more than 15 miles of beautiful, multi-use trails which provide hiking, biking 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 175 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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