The Real Florida℠ Connection - 8 Surprising Things You Can Do in a State Park

A MESSAGE FROM OUR DIRECTOR On a recent bike ride on the Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail, I saw a young parent pushing a stroller. It reminded me of taking my kids out to enjoy the fresh air. The Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail was recently highlighted as Trail of the Month by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, who recognize the importance of having a scenic, safe and accessible place to be active. I believe that because of their early outdoor experiences, my kids make fitness a part of their lifestyle as adults. August is National Wellness Month and many people are sharing ways that we can “be well.” Simple activities, when done outdoors, have terrific potential for our health. The advantages we get from stretching our legs with a bike ride or walk are multiplied when we enjoy those activities in nature. The opportunity to stop and listen to the song of a wood thrush or watch the sunset over a lake makes moving our bodies more enjoyable, fulfilling and, perhaps surprisingly, effective for our well-being.   An acquaintance told me she was excited to see a yoga instructor offering classes at Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park. I told her the events were part of our Florida Park Fit initiative to promote parks as a great natural alternative to the gym. I really believe that being active in nature provides therapeutic benefits we don’t get from the indoors. I’m proud that Florida offers excellent recreation opportunities and some of America’s most beautiful landscapes. The Department of Environmental Protection works with local partners to increase access to outdoor recreation, providing grants for trails and park facilities. It’s easy to find a park near you, so get out there and be well! Eric Draper FEATURED STORIES 8 Surprising Things You Can Do in a State Park Florida State Parks are great places for popular outdoor activities like walking, swimming and bicycling. However, there are some surprising things you can do in a state park. We created this list of unique activities that most people wouldn't expect to find in a state park. July Cleanups Net Nearly 4 Tons of Debris In July, volunteers geared up to clean Florida’s waterways. In the Florida Keys, debris from 2017’s Hurricane Irma still litters the banks in many areas. Teams launched from Bahia Honda State Park, ready to load their kayaks and pontoon boats with trash. Girl Scouts Love State Parks Girl Scouts across America put on their scout vests and made the trek to their nearest state park for the first-ever Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend. The Florida Park Service and Girl Scouts of the USA hosted events at over a dozen Florida State Parks. The Weeki Wachee Mermaids Need Your Help The Weeki Wachee mermaids are doing something never done before. Their new show, “The Wonders of Weeki,” asks visitors to join the mermaids in their quest for a clean and beautiful Weeki Wachee Springs. EVENTS Park After Dark: Astronomy August 10, Little Manatee River State Park This Park After Dark Program is dedicated to the night sky. View some of the brightest planets, stars, and constellations, and listen to interesting stories about each. What mysteries and stories of the past will the night sky reveal? Learn more Guided Plant Stroll August 19, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park  Take a stroll through the park and the campground to explore the plants visible and to see what is in bloom with Master Gardener Bill Kuenstler.  Learn more Local Fishing Techniques August 23, Fort Clinch State Park  Join a Park Ranger for an interactive program to learn about some of the proper fishing equipment, lures, rigs and knots for  beach and river fishing. This event is great for those new to the area or beginners.  Learn more Junior Ranger Day August 30, Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park Join us and learn how to become a Junior Ranger. Activities are provided that give kids the chance to earn their very own Junior Ranger badge, ID card and other fun prizes. Learn more Find more Florida State Park events You are currently subscribed to the Real Florida Connection.

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