Florida Department of Environmental Protection

 

A MESSAGE FROM OUR ACTING DIRECTOR The holiday season means new beginnings are on the horizon, and this is certainly true for the Florida Park Service. As you may have read in this space a month ago, Director Eric Draper has retired. Eric had an outstanding tenure as director, highlighted by his guidance in helping our state parks receive a fourth National Gold Medal for Excellence. Although he leaves big shoes to fill, it is my great honor to serve as Acting Director of the Florida Park Service. I’ve been fortunate to serve in our central office for six years, and each one of those years seems to have been better and more memorable than the last. I expect this to continue next year, as we prepare to open two new properties – the Bluffs of St. Teresa in Franklin County and the William J. “Billy Joe” Rish Recreation Area on Cape San Blas – along with an already full calendar of planned enhancements, renovations, construction projects and events. There’s plenty to look forward to, but, before we turn the page on 2021, I’d like to remind you that most parks and trails are open 365 days a year, making them perfect places where friends and family can gather during the holidays. Several parks offer holiday-themed events and decorations, and, no matter where you go, you’ll find an opportunity to enjoy Florida’s natural wonders and take a break from what can be a busy time of year. If you do visit a park during the holiday season, I hope you’ll offer a smile and a hello for the staff and volunteers you meet. These remarkable people work tirelessly to provide our visitors the best experience possible throughout the year, and especially during the holidays. Happy holidays. Sincerely, Chuck Hatcher

FEATURED STORIES  LAST-MINUTE GIFTS FOR NATURE LOVERS December is the season of giving, and there are some great gift options available for the park and nature lovers in your life. START 2022 ON THE RIGHT FOOT WITH FIRST DAY HIKES Get a head start on your goals or simply enjoy a leisurely walk through nature at a First Day Hike event hosted in a state park near you. BEST TIPS FOR CAMPFIRE COOKING Cooler weather offers the perfect time to gather around a campfire for everything from s'mores to full gourmet meals. NATIONAL BIRD DAY FLYING YOUR WAY SOON National Bird Day is Jan. 5, 2022, and birding in a Florida state park is a great way to observe our feathery friends in their natural habitats.  SPOTLIGHT Celebrate the season at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park Join in on the holiday fun and bring the family to Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park for its annual Festival of Lights. While marveling at the light displays under the moonlight, enjoy buttery popcorn, hot cocoa and roasted marshmallows by the bonfire. Visit the food and craft vendors for additional festival favorites. Keep an eye out for a special appearance from Santa. Don’t forget a camera to catch him before he heads back to the North Pole in preparation for Christmas! There will also be a kids' craft area where children can make festive holiday crafts to take home. The event runs through Dec. 23, with a Silent Night on Dec. 24. On this night, the lights will be illuminated, but there will not be any additional activities. Admission is $4 per person. Children under 3 are admitted free. The event begins at dusk each night. Last admission is at 8:30 p.m. and the park will close at 9 p.m.