Activities Galore during July’s Recreation and Parks Month

With July just a little more than halfway over, there is still a lot to do and see right here in Florida during Recreation and Parks Month. Recognized by Governor Charlie Crist and the Department to highlight the many activities that Florida State Parks offer, the possibilities are geared toward young and old alike.

In northwest Florida:

• On Friday and Saturday evenings, the Florida Caverns State Park hosts guided flashlight tours through the stalactite and stalagmite filled cavern; on July 25, both kids and adults can enjoy a cruise down the Chipola River.
• A Family Bike Day offered through Maclay Gardens State Park on July 19 could be just the ticket for some quality bonding time.
• And those who take an interest in four and eight legged residents can learn about the endangered beach mouse on July 19 and the wild world of spiders, on July 26, at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park.

The northeastern portion of the state:

• Offers a day of entertainment featuring local artists bringing their music to Rainbow Springs State Park on July 19; on July 21 visitors can participate in hands-on activities to learn about the health of the nation’s water.
• Also on July 19 at Manatee Springs State Park, a family play day features fun and games including horseshoes, three-legged races and sack-hop races for child/adult teams.
• On July 20, guests visiting Little Talbot Island State Park can learn about the many inhabitants of the undeveloped barrier islands including river otters, marsh rabbits, bobcats and an assortment of migratory birds; on July 26 additional information will be provided at the restored Ribault Club on Fort George Island Cultural State Park.
• While those who are interested in learning the lost art of quilting, rug braiding, basketry, woodworking and more can visit Dudley Farm Historic State Park on July 23 and 30 ...more