Florida State Parks To Waive Admission Fees on July 13

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Recreation and Parks and the Florida Recreation and Park Association have designated July as Recreation and Parks Month, encouraging Floridians to take advantage of some close-to-home fun in one of Florida's many state parks. To make the idea even more appealing, state park admission fees will be waived on Sunday, July 13.

With 161 state parks scattered throughout the Sunshine State, park enthusiasts should have no difficulty locating a suitable destination without having to go into debt buying enough gas to make the trip. State, national and local recreation areas across the country have celebrated July as Recreation and Parks month since 1985. This year, Florida State Parks will promote its Family. Friends. Fun. campaign, urging children and families to reconnect with nature by particpating in outdoor activities.

There are several state parks in the Tampa Bay area, including Caladesi Island State Park in Pinellas County, recently named America’s top beach destination by Dr. Beach; Alafia River State Park in Hillsborough County, celebrated for its challenging off-road bicycling trails; and Myakka River State Park in Sarasota County, where lake tours are offered daily on the world's two largest airboats.