FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 20, 2004
CONTACT: Linda Long, (850) 245-2112

Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park Welcomes Visitors

--Park provides hiking, fishing and boating through natural Florida landscapes--

JACKSONVILLE – Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park welcomed visitors today to one of Florida’s newest natural attractions. Nestled along the Nassau and St. Johns Rivers, the 4,000-acre park boasts more than 10 miles of trails and is home to an abundance of endangered wildlife.

“Pumpkin Hill provides visitors a glimpse of one of Northeast Florida’s most unique natural ecosystems,” said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Colleen M. Castille. “Expanding Florida’s award winning state park system preserves Florida’s natural landscapes, while providing outdoor recreation opportunities.”

Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve is one of eight new parks added to Florida’s award-winning state park system over the last five years. In addition to miles of hiking and equine trails, the park offers a Visitor’s Center with interpretive displays and a canoe/kayak launch area.

“Increasing access to publicly-owned land provides more visitors and residents with opportunities to appreciate and enjoy the outdoors,” said Florida State Parks Director Mike Bullock. “By expanding Florida’s park system, we are demonstrating our continued commitment to conservation, recreation and coastal protection.”

Florida's state park system is one of the largest in the country with 158 parks covering more than 700,000 acres. Under the leadership of Governor Jeb Bush, Florida added eight new parks and more than 203,000 acres to its nationally-renowned park system. Last year, Florida’s state parks attracted a record-breaking 19.1 million visitors.