FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 29, 2003
CONTACT: Kathalyn Gaither, (850) 245-2112

Experience The True Value Of The Real Florida 

-- Learn or play for pennies a day in Florida State Parks --

FLORIDA STATE PARKS – Florida’s award-winning state parks provide inexpensive, high quality recreation in a natural setting. Revenue generated from visitor fees remain in the state park system, making up almost half of the $70 million operating budget. Updates in entrance and camping fees, starting January 1, will provide additional revenue to protect these natural, cultural and historic attractions, while ensuring state parks remain a fraction of the cost of most other family entertainment.

“Where else in the state, or the nation, can you and your family hike, bike, swim, picnic or bird watch for an entire day for less than the price of a single movie ticket?” said Mike Bullock, Director of the Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Recreation and Parks. "Florida's state parks are an unbeatable value and offer guests of all ages an unforgettable experience."

Revisions to entrance fees are the first update in 13 years: · Daily Pass (per car with as many as eight passengers) increases from $3.25 to $4 and from $4 to $5, depending on the park. · Annual Pass, which provides unlimited entrance to more than 150 state parks, increases from $30 to $40 for individuals and from $60 to $80 for families (up to eight people).

Under the simplified fee schedule for camping, visitors will pay one flat fee, ranging from $12 to $28, depending on camping facilities. The revisions eliminate additional fees for electricity, extra vehicles, people and pets.

“Last year, more than 18 million visitors enjoyed a rich, outdoors experience for just a few dollars,” said Bullock. "A day at a state park remains a good bargain for our families.”