Message from Our Director

Chuck Hatcher

Starting the Year Right 

January starts a new year and I’m one of those people who likes to reflect on the previous year and set goals for the new year. 

Many people started 2024 with a First Day Hike. Events were held around the state. First Day Hikes are a nationwide effort to help people develop healthy habits while enjoying state parks around the country. Events varied from self-guided scavenger hunts to ranger-led hikes. 

With the new year, I took time to reflect on 2023. This year was full of success and challenges.  

  • DEP opened cabins, a campground and a day-use area at T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park. This expands recreational opportunities in the Panhandle.  

  • DEP partnered with the Florida Prepaid College Savings Program to award 10 Florida children a one-year Florida college scholarship valued at approximately $7,000. Twenty-five runners-up were also selected to receive a Florida State Parks gift pack. The promotion was used to encourage youth to learn about Florida’s environment through the Florida State Parks Junior Ranger Program.   

  • Hurricane Idalia left lasting changes to the landscapes at several state parks in the Big Bend area of the state. But thanks to the hard work of park staff and volunteers, all parks have reopened. 

  • We worked with the Florida State Parks Foundation to introduce the Great Blue Heron at Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park. This vessel is one of four boats used to provide world-class boat tours at the park. 

Annual Entrance Pass Bargains  

Does one of your new year’s goals include spending time in nature? It’s not too late to purchase a discounted Florida State Parks Annual Entrance Pass. Through Jan. 13, 2024, the passes are 50% off as a part of the Great Outdoors Initiative. This initiative also offers select Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission licenses at half off as well.  

Florida Residents Preference  

We are excited to provide Florida residents with early access when reserving a campsite or cabin at a Florida State Park. This means that Florida residents can book reservations for camping and cabins up to 11 months in advance while non-residents can book 10 months in advance. For a smoother experience, make sure your residence status is verified by signing into your account on the reservations page and adding your valid Florida driver’s license or ID card number.  

Looking forward to 2024

My top priorities include spending more time with our staff and volunteers in our award-winning state parks.  

Of course, we will continue to focus on our mission to provide resource-based recreation while preserving, interpreting and restoring our natural and cultural resources.  

Happy New Year and see you in the parks, 

Chuck Hatcher, Director

Florida State Parks