About Us
This website was created so that we could give information to fellow travelers who also love to visit the state parks of this beautiful state. We fully plan on visiting every single one of these parks at least once.
We are also photographers so I am sure there will be plenty of pictures to share with all of you. We are a very close net family so the articles will almost always include information on weather, if the certain park is good for family fun days, picnicking, camping, hiking, bird watching, etc…
We wanted to make sure that this site as full of as much information as possible for our visitors. Please, if you have visited one of our wonderful state parks, leave us comments with your opinions of each park.
Thank you for visiting and happy traveling!.
Archives
- April 2010
- March 2010
- September 2009
- August 2009
- July 2009
- June 2009
- May 2009
- April 2009
- March 2009
- January 2009
- December 2008
- November 2008
- October 2008
- September 2008
- August 2008
- July 2008
- June 2008
Events
- Kid's Saltwater Fishing Workshop
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
When: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Friday, July 30, 2010
Description: The Friends of Washington Oaks Gardens State Park are sponsoring a kid's fishing clinic. A Florida Park Ranger will illustrate some of the techniques anglers use to catch fish and the importance of conservation and safety. Participants will learn to identify saltwater fish species commonly caught in this area, and will learn how to use a fishing rod & reel. Each workshop will be hands-on with participants fishing along the bank of the Intracoastal Waterway while applying their newly learned skills. All fishing gear will be furnished for each participant to use during the workshop, including complete rod & reel, fishing tackle and bait. Upon completion of the workshop each participant will be awarded a certificate of completion and a souvenir fishing packet to take home. Also, participants will be furnished with snacks and beverages. If desired, you may bring a bag lunch. This workshop is open for ages 8-17 years and older. Advance registration is required by contacting Melissa Kafel at (386) 446-6783, Or E-Mail Melissa.
Fees: The fee is $20.00 per workshop, per participant, which includes the park entrance fee.
Contact: Contact park for more information.
Directions: Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is located two miles south of Marineland, off A1A.
close event window - Art In The Park---hands On Fun For Everyone!
Hillsborough River State Park
When: The Last Friday of Each Month: July 30, August 27, September 24, October 29, November 26; 7 p.m.-8 p.m.
Description: The event promises to be a safe and fun way for the entire family to enjoy time together making tangible memories of your time at Hillsborough River State Park in the form of pieces of art. Each date will feature a different theme for variety.
Fees: FREE
Contact: MJPrice@goinpostal.com or patrick.potts@dep.state.fl.us for more details.
Directions: Hillsborough River State Park is located 9 miles north of Tampa and 6 miles south of Zephyrhills on US Highway 301. From I-75, Southbound from Ocala take the SR 54. Exit #279 east to Hwy 301, travel South for 6 miles, and the park will be on your right-hand side. From I-75, Northbound from Tampa take the Fowler Ave. Exit #265 east to Hwy 301, travel North for 9 miles, and the park will be on your left-hand side. From I-4, West bound take Exit 10 go north on CR 579 to US 301, follow the signs and go North 7 miles the park will be on your left-hand side. From I-4, East bound take Exit 7 (be careful of the merges) and go North on US 301 for 14 miles, the park will be on your left-hand side.
close event window - Turtle Talk: A Sea Turtle's Journey
Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area
When: 10:00 a.m
Description: Sea Turtle Season is Here! Join Park Ranger Tony and take a glimpse into the intricate world of remarkable sea turtles. Participants will learn about the sea turtles' life cycle as well as their habitat, behavior and the important role they play in "the Real Florida!" Here at the park, we have many nests and are very exicited to have you visit and learn how important sea turtles are to our coastal waters. Learn how your actions can help preserve these magestic turtles for generations to come!
Fees:
Contact: Contact park for more information
Directions: From I-95: Whether you are traveling north or south on I-95, take exit 284 (State Road 100). Turn east onto State Road 100 and travel approximately 3 miles till you reach A1A (and the ocean). At the light turn right (south) and travel approximately another 3 miles. The Ranger Station will be located on the drive to your right and our day use beach facilities will be on the left.
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From Daytona: Take A1A north to approximately 1 mile north of the Flagler/Volusia County line (approximately 18 miles)The Ranger Station will be located on the drive to your left and our day use beach facilities will be to your right.
From Ormond Beach: Take West Granada (40) east, across the Halifax River, to A1A. Turn left (north) on A1A and travel approximately 11 miles (1 mile north of the Flagler/Volusia County line). The Ranger Station will be located on the drive to your left and our day use beach facilities will be to your right.
From Palm Coast: Take Palm Coast Parkway east across the Intercoastal Waterway (toll bridge) to A1A. Turn left (south) on A1A and travel approximately 11 miles. The park is located on A1A. The Ranger Station will be on the drive to your right and our day use beach facilities will be to your left.
Avoid the toll: Take Palm Coast parkway east to Colbert Lane. Turn right (south) on Colbert Lane and travel approximately 7 miles to SR 100. Turn left (east) on SR 100 and travel approximately 1.5 miles to A1A. Turn right on A1A and travel about 3 miles. The Ranger Station will be located on the drive to your right and our day use beach facilities will be to your left.
From St. Augustine: Take A1A south for approximately 32 miles to SR 100. Continue straight through the light and travel approximately another 3 miles to the park. The Ranger Station will be located on the drive on your right and our day use beach facilities will be located on your left. - Easy As One Collection Event
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
When: Friday, July 30, 2010, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Description: The Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Hernando County Sheriff s Office will hold a recycling and collection event in the parking lot at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park on Friday, July 30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admittance to the park is not required for participation. Bring paper to shred and recycle (10 a.m. to 2 p.m. only), used cell phones (working and non-working), and stray chargers, plastic retail bags and expired medications for safe disposal. Participants who bring in 15 or more bags for recycling will receive a reusable shopping bag. Those who bring expired medications, used cell phones or paper will receive a day pass to a Florida State Park. While supplies last. Learn more about DEPs Easy as One campaign at: EasyasOneWordPress.com
Fees: Free for volunteers.
Contact: Call the park at (352) 592-5656
Directions: Weeki Wachee Springs is located at the intersection of State Road 50 and Hwy. 19.
close event window - Wildlife Refuge Presents Owls And Critters
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
When: Saturday, Jul 31st from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection's Topsail Hill Preserve State Park will be having a wildlife presentation; come and join the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge as they present their rehabilitated wildlife for your viewing pleasure. Learn about the fascinating critters that are right here in the park and in Okaloosa and Walton counties as they teach you what they eat, where they live and how they survive in the wild.
Fees: Program included in the park admission fee.
Contact: (850) 267-8330
Directions: Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is located in Santa Rosa Beach, 10 miles east of Destin, FL. Take I-10 to Exit 85 (Defuniak Springs) and follow U.S. Highway 331 south. Travel 27 miles to U.S. Highway 98. Turn right and travel approximately five miles west to scenic Highway 30A. Turn left and go a quarter mile to the entrance on the right.
close event window - Beginning Bird Watching
Little Talbot Island State Park
When: Saturday, July 31st, 2010 at 2:00 p.m.
Description: Join a Park Ranger for a program that will introduce you to bird watching. Topics include the basic tools available to birdwatchers, and the basics of bird habitat, behavior, and identification. This program will take place at the Ribault Club on Fort George Island Cultural State Park. No reservations are necessary and the program is free.
Fees: This program is free.
Contact: For more information, call 904-251-2320.
Directions: Little Talbot Island State Park is located 17 miles northeast of Jacksonville, on State Road A1A.
close event window - Beginning Bird Watching
Fort George Island Cultural State Park
When: Saturday, July 31st, 2010 at 2:00 p.m.
Description: Join a Park Ranger for a program that will introduce you to bird watching. Topics include the basic tools available to birdwatchers, and the basics of bird habitat, behavior, and identification. This program will take place at the Ribault Club on Fort George Island Cultural State Park. No reservations are necessary and the program is free.
Fees: This program is free.
Contact: For more information, call 904-251-2320.
Directions: Fort George Island Cultural State Park is located approximately 16 miles east of downtown Jacksonville on State Road A1A, or three miles south of Little Talbot Island State Park.
close event window - Junior Ranger
Blue Spring State Park
When: Saturday , July 31, 2010, 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Description: 'Birds'. Explore the wildlife of Blue Spring State Park with hands-on activities, wilderness explorations, crafts, games and more. Earn a Jr. Ranger patch featuring manatees by attending two events. This program is geared for children in grades K through 5. Pre-registraton required.
Fees: Regular park admission fees apply.
Contact: Contact park for more information.
Directions: Blue Spring is located west of Orange City. Take U.S. 17/92 to Orange City, go west two miles on French Avenue to the entrance.
close event window - Dragonflies & Damselflies
Big Lagoon State Park
When: Saturday, Aug 7th at 10:00 a.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection's Big Lagoon State Park is hosting its 'Dragonflies and Damselflies' interpretive program. Dragonflies and damselflies are two of the most ecologically important and beneficial insects on the planet! Make a date with Big Lagoon State Park and explore the exciting and interesting world of these species. The park offers many recreational opportunities to visitors with disabilities. Should you need assistance to enable your full participation, please contact the park office.
Fees: Program included in the park admission fee.
Contact: (850) 492-1595
Directions: Big Lagoon State Park is located at 12301 Gulf Beach Highway, about 10 miles southwest of Pensacola. From I-10 take Exit 7 south on Pine Forest Road. Turn right on Blue Angel Parkway, right on Sorrento Road. Finally go left on Bauer Road.
close event window - Member Awareness Day
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
When: Saturday, Aug 7th All Day
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection¿s Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park and The Friends of Maclay Gardens, Inc. invite you to attend Member Awareness Day.
Fees: Entry fees will be waived for all Friends members on the first Saturday of each month.
Contact: (850) 487-4115
Directions: Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park is located .5 miles north of I-10 on U.S. 319.
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