FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Dec. 22, 2014 CONTACT: DEP Press Office, 850-245-2112, DEPNews@dep.state.fl.us  FLORIDA STATE PARKS ARE OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY ~Enjoy the holiday with family and friends at Florida’s state parks~ TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Park Service invites residents and visitors to spend their Christmas at a state park or trail. While some locations may be closed, most of Florida’s state parks and trails will be open 8 a.m. to sunset on Thursday, Dec. 25. The holiday season presents the perfect time for residents of Florida to share our award-winning state parks and trails with their visitors and out-of-town guests. Florida’s state parks offer many wonderful recreational opportunities, which are sure to keep your friends and family active and happy. “Florida is a wonderful place to visit during the holidays,” said Donald Forgione, director of the Florida Park Service. “Family and friends can escape from the colder weather and spend their time enjoying Florida’s natural treasures while they hike, bike or enjoy a walk at sunset at one of our state parks.” Florida is home to 171 state parks and trails that offer an assortment of activities, including camping, biking and kayaking. Many parks are hosting special holiday-themed events that are sure to thrill your guests. To find an event that interests you, visit the Florida State Parks events page here. The following parks will be open Christmas Day, but will not be offering all services: DeLeon Springs State Park in DeLeon Springs – Sugarmill Restaurant closed. Florida Caverns State Park in Marianna – No cave tours. Fort George Island Cultural State Park in Jacksonville – Ribault Clubhouse closed. Gamble Plantation Historic State Park in Ellenton – Mansion closed. Gasparilla Island State Park in Boca Grande – Lighthouse museum closed. Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park in Cross Creek – No guided tours. The following parks will be closed Christmas Day: Constitution Convention Museum State Park in Port St. Joe. Forest Capital Museum State Park in Perry. John Gorrie Museum State Park in Apalachicola. Orman House Historic State Park in Apalachicola. San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park in St. Marks. The Barnacle Historic State Park in Coconut Grove. Ybor City Museum State Park in Tampa. For more information, visit www.floridastateparks.org.  About Florida State Parks, Greenways and Trails  The Florida Park Service is the proud recipient of three National Gold Medals for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, making Florida America’s first three-time Gold Medal winner. The awards were received in 1999, 2005 and 2013 from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and the National Recreation and Park Association. Florida’s 171 state parks and trails inspire residents and visitors with recreation opportunities and scenic beauty that help strengthen families, educate children, expand local economies and foster community pride. With 161 parks, 10 state trails, nearly 800,000 acres, 100 miles of beaches and more than 1,500 miles of multi-use trails, visit soon and often to enjoy Florida’s natural treasures. Download the Florida State Parks Pocket Ranger® mobile app, available on iTunes and Android Market, to plan your trip and enhance your experience while visiting.  For more information, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org http://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLDEP/bulletins/e4cd9e

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