FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 23, 2003
CONTACT: Linda Long, (850) 245-2112

Florida's State Parks Reach All-Time Attendance Record 

-- Local economies benefit by the millions --

FLORIDA STATE PARKS - More than 18.2 million people visited Florida's award-winning state parks last fiscal year - setting an all-time record for attendance statewide. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo ranked at the top of the list with more than a million visitors. Nearly 860,000 people visited the lush and varied habitats of Honeymoon Island State Park in Dunedin, the top draw for the region. More than 700,000 people visited the sugar white sands and crystal clear emerald waters of St. Andrews State Park in Panama City, the most visited park in the Panhandle. Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine topped 400,000 visitors and Homosassa Springs State Park drew more than 250,000 - making them the most popular in each area.

"Florida's state parks are one of the few attractions that provide inexpensive, high-quality recreation in a natural setting," said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary David B. Struhs. "Our parks offer unbeatable value. They protect our environment, entertain and inform visitors, and contribute over half a billion dollars to the economy every year."

State parks protect Florida's natural, historical and cultural treasures. Last year, entrance and recreation fees generated $32 million and pumped almost $574 million into local economies. Revenue generated from fees remains within the park system and provides partial funding for the park system's $70 million operating budget.

"State parks are the Real Florida," said Parks and Recreation Director Mike Bullock. "With the growing interest in nature and heritage tourism, Florida's state parks are becoming favorite attractions that offer guests of all ages an unforgettable experience."