Staff Reports
Take the day off and enjoy Florida’s parks.
Gov. Rick Scott announced Florida State Parks will offer free admission at the state’s 174 state parks for all families and visitors Friday in honor of Veterans Day.
“This Veterans Day, I encourage all Floridians to take a moment to recognize our many military heroes and thank them for their selfless service,” said Scott in a statement. “I also hope families and visitors will take this opportunity to visit the best state parks in the country free of charge and enjoy the beautiful state our veterans have worked so hard to protect.”
Several parks are hosting events Friday to commemorate Veterans Day. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, 7525 W. Scenic Highway 30A in Santa Rosa Beach, will host an event from 8:30 a.m. to noon. The event — “Veterans Past, Present, and Future” — will include a flag ceremony and a “Bombs Away” program to showcase the connection the state park has with the military.
At Fort Clinch State Park, 2601 Atlantic Ave. in Fernandina Beach, visitors will get a chance to participate in an event saluting the armed forces. At Jonathan Dickinson State Park, visitors can learn about the role the park played during World War II.
“I am proud to offer free entry to all visitors to Florida State Parks this Veterans Day,” said DEP Secretary Jon Steverson. “Florida’s state parks preserve much of our state’s wartime history and provide a great opportunity for reflection as we thank those who have served our country.”
The offer, according to the governor’s office, does not include the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park. All other uses, like overnight accommodations and tours, will be charged as usual on Nov. 11.
