National Park and Recreation Day – Free for all

Sunday, July 17 – National Park and Recreation Day – Free for all*
(*Excludes the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park.)

Entry into Florida's state parks will be free on Sunday, July 17, 2011.  There are 160 Florida parks to choose from.  (Find a park).
Some of these parks are free or cheap year-round. Use your free day wisely and go to parks with higher admission charges on your free day.



Weeki Wachee Springs State Park



I would suggest the Weeki Wachee Springs State Park  in Spring Hill, Florida, which is $13.00 per person the rest of the year  (Buccaneer Bay Water Park is not included with the free admission)

The Show Park is famous for its underwater Mermaid Shows. The Little Mermaid is performed daily in the natural spring water. Fish, turtles, manatees, and other wildlife are often part of the show, since the springs are not contained. Children and adults love the beautiful and graceful mermaids who breathe through tubes hidden in the scenery so they can perform the entire show underwater.

The park also offers free river boat cruises and animal shows. 

Another great choice is the  Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park in Homasassa Springs, Florida.  This park is only about 30 minutes from the Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, so consider visiting both parks on the same day.  The admission price for Homosassa Springs is also $13.00 per day, yet free on July 17th.   The park showcases native Florida wildlife, including manatees, black bears, bobcats, white-tailed deer, American alligators, American crocodiles, and river otters.  There is an underwater observatory which you can see manatees and fish in their natural settings.  They also provide free river boat cruises.

You'll still have to pay for some activities, such as canoe rentals and camping, but those are all optional.  Entrance to the parks is free.

If you love Florida State parks and plan to visit frequently, consider getting a  Florida State Parks Annual Pass.  The pass allows frequent visitors to enjoy parks for only $60.00 per year for one person, or $120 per year for a family pass. 



All Free National Park and Recreation Days for 2011

• Sunday, July 17 – National Park and Recreation Day – Free for all*
• Sunday, September 11 – Literacy Month – Free with library card, library book or donation of family-friendly book*
• Friday, November 11 – Veterans Day – Free for all*

*Excludes the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park.