- LITERACY MONTH READ WITH A RANGER EVENT
Torreya State Park
Date: Friday & Sunday, September 11th & 13th from 8:00 a.m. to Sunset
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Torreya State Park will be partnering with W.R. Tolar Elementary School in Bristol to celebrate the Literacy Month. Park Rangers will visit the classroom and read to 3rd grade students. 8:00 a.m. – Sunset Friday, September 11 to Sunday, September 13, 2009
Fees: Entrance fee waived to park visitors who bring a library card, library book or with the donation of a new or gently used family friendly book.
Contact: (850) 643-2674
Directions: Torreya State Park is located off S.R. 12. on C.R. 1641, 13 miles north of Bristol.
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- PICNIC IN THE PARK
Ponce de Leon Springs State Park
Date: Saturday, Sept 12th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Ponce de Leon Springs State Park, along with the Holmes County Sheriff’s Department and the Holmes County School System, will be sponsoring the 13th Annual Picnic in the Park as a way of saying ‘Thank you’ to all visitors. Free lunch will be served to everyone. This will be a fun event for all ages.
Fees: Entrance fees to the park will be waived for the duration of the event.
Contact: (850) 836-4281
Directions: Ponce de Leon Springs State Park Area is located one half mile south of U.S. 90 on C.R,181A.
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- BECOME A FLORIDA JUNIOR RANGER
Grayton Beach State Park
Date: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Grayton Beach State Park
357 Main Park Road
Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Grayton Beach State Park is looking for Junior Rangers for their Literacy in the Park Program. The Park Ranger will meet participants at the Beach Pavilion for an hour of fun ranger activities promoting reading in the ‘Real Florida.’ All participants will receive a Junior Ranger badge and certificate upon completion of the hour long program.Fees: Park Admission fees are waived from September 11th thru the 13th to any one donating a gently used or new book, presenting a library card or a library book.
Contact: Patrick Hartsfield, (850) 231-4210
Directions: Grayton Beach State Park is located South of U.S. 98 approximately halfway between Panama City Beach and Destin. Take county road 283 south of U.S. 98, turn left at the stop sign on 30A (approximately 1/2 mile east of the intersection of C.R. 30A and C.R. 283 our entrance will be found on the right).
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- STORY TIME AT LAKE JACKSON MOUNDS
Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park
Date: Saturday, Sept 12th from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park invites you to come out and read a story with a Ranger, follow the Ranger on a tour of the Nature Trail and check out a book from the Leon County Library Book Mobile. Please meet the Ranger at the picnic area parking lot. Park entrance fees will be waived for participants with a library card, the name of a recently read book or a book donation.
Fees: Fees waived for above reason
Contact: (850) 922-6007
Directions: Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park is located off U.S. 27, two miles north of I-10 in Tallahassee. Take Crowder Road to Indian Mounds Road.
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- READING ON THE RIVER
Blackwater River State Park
Date: Saturday, Sept 12th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Blackwater River State Park will be hosting a children’s book reading on September 12, 2009. Pack a picnic lunch, bring the whole family and join a park ranger as they share a story about the animals that inhabit the park. The reading will take place at Pavilion #23 on the boardwalk complex. After the reading, join the ranger on a short hike around the Juniper Lake Trail. These donations will go to charity to help promote literacy.
Fees: Admission to the park is free with your library card or the donation of a new or gently used, family appropriate book.
Contact: (850) 983-5363
Directions: Heading East on I-10 exit 31 (Hwy 87N), 1/2 mile, right turn on Hwy 90E, 7 miles to town of Harold, Left turn onto Deaton Bridge Road, 3 miles to main gate. Heading West on I-10 exit 45 to town of Holt (blinking light). Left turn onto Hwy 90, Approximately 15 miles to the town of Harold, right turn on Deaton Bridge Road, 3 miles to main gate. - LITERACY DAY AT BIG LAGOON
Big Lagoon State Park
Date: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 12,2009
Big Lagoon State Park
12031 Gulf Beach Hwy
Pensacola, Florida
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Big Lagoon State Park is holding a Ranger and Volunteer outdoor reading program in celebration of the National Literacy Month. Please meet at pavilion #39 at East Beach for a fun-filled afternoon of story reading.For more information, visit www.floridastateparks.org/BigLagoonStatePark.
Fees: Entrance to the park will be free with a library card or a book donation.
Contact: Big Lagoon State Park, (850) 492-1595
Directions: Big Lagoon State Park is located at 12301 Gulf Beach Highway, approximately ten miles Southwest of Pensacola Interstate 10 Exit 7 (Pensacola), South on Pine Forest Road (297), Right on Blue Angel Parkway (SR173), Right on Sorrento Road (SR292), Left on Bauer Road (CR293).
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- BREAKFAST WITH A RANGER
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Date: 9:00 -10:30 a.m.
September 12, 2009
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
7525 W. Scenic Hwy 30A
Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Topsail Hill Preserve State Park invites you to Breakfast with a Ranger. Join the Rangers of Topsail Hill and ask them all the questions you can think of about park wildlife. This program is oriented and ideal for the whole family to enjoy. To cover the cost of food, please bring $4, which goes to Friends of Topsail Hill Preserve State Park to enhance the park or bring your own breakfast. Park at the Day-Use area off Hwy 30A and take a short hike to the clubhouse.
Fees: Park entry fee for this event is waived.
Contact: Leda Suydan, (850) 267-0299
Directions: Located in Santa Rosa Beach 10 miles east of Destin, FL. Take Interstate 10 to Exit 85 (Defuniak Springs) and follow U.S. Highway 331 south. Travel 27 miles to U.S. Highway 98. Turn right and travel approximately 5 miles west to scenic Highway 30A. Turn left and go ¼ mile to the entrance on the right.
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- READ A CHILDREN’S BOOK WITH AUTHOR PAUL LOWERY
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Date: Saturday, Sept 12th from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Topsail Hill Preserve State Park will be celebrating Literacy Month. Join us as we read Author Paul Lowery children’s book together, ‘Do You Know Where the Sea Turtles Go?’ This event is great for children and is family oriented. State Park Rangers will have interpretive aids and present a short program on sea turtles afterwards and be available for questions. Come and join the fun. Park at the Day-Use area off Hwy 30A and take a short hike to the campfire circle.
Fees: Park entrance fees will be waived to participants.
Contact: (850) 267-0299
Directions: Located in Santa Rosa Beach 10 miles east of Destin, FL. Take Interstate 10 to Exit 85 (Defuniak Springs) and follow U.S. Highway 331 south. Travel 27 miles to U.S. Highway 98. Turn right and travel approximately 5 miles west to scenic Highway 30A. Turn left and go ¼ mile to the entrance on the right.
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- STORY TIME AT OCHLOCKONEE
Ochlockonee River State Park
Date: Saturday, Sept 12th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Ochlockonee River State Park invites you to come out and read a story with a Ranger, featuring a story called ‘Gimble Gopher Tortoise Found A New Home.’ Please meet the Ranger at the picnic area parking lot.
Fees: Park entrance fees will be waived to participants.
Contact: (850) 962-2771
Directions: Ochlockonee River State Park is located four miles south of Sopchoppy on U.S. 319.
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- REFLECTIONS AT WAKULLA SPRINGS
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
Date: Saturday, Sept 12th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Wakulla Springs State Park in cooperation with the Wakulla County Public Library will offer three programs to foster literary appreciation. Local authors will share the life experiences and passions that fuel their works in The Story Behind the Story in the Dogwood Pavilion; special Children’s Reading Encounters will be offered in the Azalea Shelter and the Library will host a book giveaway in the Concession Building.
Fees: Park entrance fees will be waived from September 11-13 for those who present a library card or for those who donate a new or gently–used family friendly book.
Contact: (850) 561-7286
Directions: Traveling East on I-10 to new Exit 196 (old Exit 28). Take SR-263 (Capitol Circle) South 12 miles. Turn right (South) onto US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance. From West I-10 use new Exit 203(old Exit 30). Take SR-61 (Thomasville Rd) South. Continue on SR-61 thru Tallahassee for 10 miles. Take US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) South for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance.
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- SEPTEMBER IS LITERACY MONTH
Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park
Date: Saturday, Sept 12th from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s St. George Island State Park in observance of Literacy Month will host a weekend-long ‘book exchange’ at the state park. From Friday, September 11th thru Sunday, September 13th, visitors presenting a library card, library book or donating a book will receive free admisission into the park. On Saturday, September 12th, come join the Eastpoint Public Library at the park for an educational workshop event for K-4th graders from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
Fees: Park entrance fees will be waived to participants.
Contact: (850) 927-2111
Directions: Access to St. George Island is via a 4 mile bridge that is accessible from Eastpoint, Florida. Eastpoint is located approximately 75 miles southwest of Tallahassee, Florida. The park is located on the east end of St. George Island.
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- STORY TIME AT THE COTTAGE
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
Date: Sunday, Sept 13th from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park invites the public to participate in the annual celebration of Literacy Month at your state parks. Children will hear stories read from various books in the Gardener’s Cottage and the Secret Garden; then enjoy cookies and lemonade in the Cottage. Admission is free with a library card, a library book or a donation of a gently used book during the weekend of September 11-13. Meet at the Gardener’s Cottage and dress appropriately for a light stroll to the Secret Garden. The fun starts at 3 p.m.
Fees: Admission is free with a library card, a library book or a donation of a gently used book.
Contact: (850) 487-4115
Directions: Maclay State Gardens is located one half mile north of I-10 on U.S. 319.
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- INTERNATIONAL COASTAL CLEANUP
Camp Helen State Park
Date: Saturday, Sept 19th from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Camp Helen State Park and the Friends of Camp Helen State Park invite everyone to participate in Ocean’s Conservancy’s Annual International Coastal Cleanup on the 1.5 miles of shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Powell that borders our park on three sides making our shorelines a very important feature that we strive to keep beautiful. Parking within the park is very limited, please consider carpooling if you are part of a large group. Additionally, please be aware that the ground is rough in some places; sturdy shoes, sunscreen and proper attire are recommended. Water will be provided. Volunteers are welcome to stay in the park following the cleanup to enjoy a day at the beach or picnicking so bring your families to volunteer and make a day of it. Children must be accompanied by an adult to volunteer. Please RSVP so we can have enough supplies.
Fees: Park entrance fees are waived for the event. Donations will be accepted by the Friends of Camp Helen.
Contact: (850) 231-1167
Directions: Camp Helen is located at 23937 Panama City Beach Parkway,Panama City Beach, FL, just west of the Phillips Inlet bridge on the Bay County and Walton county line. The entrance is South of U.S. Hwy 98 and approximately 6 miles west of State road 79.
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- BIG LAGOON WET & WILD FESTIVAL
Big Lagoon State Park
Date: Saturday, Sept 19th from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Big Lagoon State Park and the Friends of Pensacola State Park, Inc. will be sponsoring the Rotary Club of Perdido Key ‘Big Lagoon Wet & Wild Festival.’ Activities will include several interpretive programs, an official Florida Volksmarch Association hike, a rock climbing wall, several inflatable activities, carnival games for children, a touch tank, Junior Ranger activities, a scavenger hunt, a dunking booth, treasure hunt and an adult tug-of-war. Activity tickets for the rock climbing wall, inflatables, the carnival games and hamburgers and hot dogs will be for sale. The park offers many recreational opportunities to visitors with disabilities; should you need assistance to enable your full participation, please contact the park office.
Fees: Park entrance fees will be waived to participants.
Contact: (850) 492-1595
Directions: Big Lagoon State Park is located at 12301 Gulf Beach Highway, approximately ten miles Southwest of Pensacola Interstate 10 Exit 7 (Pensacola), South on Pine Forest Road (297), Right on Blue Angel Parkway (SR173), Right on Sorrento Road (SR292), Left on Bauer Road (CR293).
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- COASTAL CLEAN-UP AT TOPSAIL
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Date: Saturday, Sept 19th from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Topsail Hill Preserve State Park will be holding an International Coastal Clean-Up Day. All ages are welcome to participate in this beach clean-up of Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. Come and join the Walton County Tourist Development Council’s sponsored event and help protect the wildlife and clean the beaches. Free t-shirts will be given to each participant. Park at the Day-Use area off Hwy 30A and take the tram to the beach.
Fees: Park entrance fees will be waived to participants.
Contact: (850) 267-0299
Directions: Located in Santa Rosa Beach 10 miles east of Destin, FL. Take Interstate 10 to Exit 85 (Defuniak Springs) and follow U.S. Highway 331 south. Travel 27 miles to U.S. Highway 98. Turn right and travel approximately 5 miles west to scenic Highway 30A. Turn left and go ¼ mile to the entrance on the right.
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- NATIVE PLANT WORKSHOP
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
Date: Saturday, September 19th from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park invites the public to come out and participate in this workshop with local native plant grower, Dan Miller. You’ll learn which wildflowers, trees and shrubs are best suited for your home landscape . Miller will also give instruction on planting, care and fall maintenance of native plantings.
Fees: Admission for event is free with regular park entrance fee.
Contact: (850) 487-4115
Directions: Maclay State Gardens is located one half mile north of I-10 on U.S. 319.
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- COASTAL CLEANUP
Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park
Date: Saturday, Sept 19th from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park along with the Ocean Conservancy will host a coastal cleanup. The Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup is a worldwide effort aimed to cleaning our shores and educating beach goers. Participants will help to pick up litter along the bayside of St. George Island State Park. This will be a great day to bring the family to the park for a rewarding experience. Participants should bring drinking water, sunscreen, bug spray, gloves and appropriate clothing.
Fees: Entrance fees will be waived for participants.
Contact: (850) 927-2111
Directions: Access to St. George Island is via a 4 mile bridge that is accessible from Eastpoint, Florida. Eastpoint is located approximately 75 miles southwest of Tallahassee, Florida. The park is located on the east end of St. George Island.
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- READING IN THE PARK
Florida Caverns State Park
Date: Saturday, Sept 26th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Caverns State Park will be hosting ‘Reading in the Park’ to celebrate literacy month. The park is going to have Smokey the Bear, Khalilah from the JCPL, a word scavenger hunt and other fun activities to choose from.
Fees: Free event with paid park entrance fees.
Contact: (850) 573-0390
Directions: Florida Caverns State Park is located 3 Miles North of Marianna, Off of U.S. 90 on S.R. 166. From Tallahassee: Take I-10 west to exit 142, turn right on Hwy 71 N to Hwy 90, turn left. Follow brown park signs. From Pensacola: Take I-10 East to exit 136, turn left on Hwy 276 N to Hwy 90, turn right. Follow brown park signs.
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- EVENING CRUISE AND DINNER
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
Date: Saturday, Sept 26th at 6:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Wakulla Springs Lodge & State Park invites you to treat that “someone special” to a romantic cruise on the Wakulla River followed by a splendid dinner served in the comfort and charm of the historic Wakulla Springs Lodge. For more information, visit www.floridastateparks.org/wakullasprings.
Fees: $29 Adults, $18 Children 12 and under. Reservations suggested.
Contact: (850) 926-0700
Directions: Traveling East on I-10 to new Exit 196 (old Exit 28). Take SR-263 (Capitol Circle) South 12 miles. Turn right (South) onto US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance. From West I-10 use new Exit 203(old Exit 30). Take SR-61 (Thomasville Rd) South. Continue on SR-61 thru Tallahassee for 10 miles. Take US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) South for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance.
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- MEDICINAL PLANT WALK
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
Date: Saturday, Oct 3rd at 10:00 a.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Wakulla Springs Lodge & State Park invites you to take a guided walk into the woods of Wakulla Springs State Park to discover plants with healing properties. Plants will be identified and the past and present uses discussed. Enjoy breakfast before or lunch afterwards at the historic Wakulla Springs Lodge. Restaurant reservations are suggested. For more information, visit www.floridastateparks.org/wakullasprings.
Fees: Event is free with park paid admission. Reservations suggested.
Contact: (850) 926-0700
Directions: Traveling East on I-10 to new Exit 196 (old Exit 28). Take SR-263 (Capitol Circle) South 12 miles. Turn right (South) onto US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance. From West I-10 use new Exit 203(old Exit 30). Take SR-61 (Thomasville Rd) South. Continue on SR-61 thru Tallahassee for 10 miles. Take US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) South for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance.
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- LEGENDS IN THE FALL
Falling Waters State Park
Date: Saturday, October 10th from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Description: (850) 638-6130 LEGENDS IN THE FALL –Historic Interpretation of Falling Waters and Area– CHIPLEY – The Department of Environmental Protection’s Falling Waters State Park along with The Friends of Falling Waters, Inc. will be sponsoring The Washington County Historical Society “Legends in the Fall” event, a return to the original format of the program Legends & Lore that is presented annually. In its inception, Legends was a forum for sharing local stories about early industries, pioneer families, Native American ways of life in this region and sharing folklore from the area. Park entrance fees waived to participants. Donations will be appreciated.
Fees: Park entrance fees waived to participants.
Contact: (850) 638-6130
Directions: Falling Waters State Park is located 3 miles south of Chipley off State Road 77, turn left on State Park Road and follow it to the parks entrance. From I10, take Chipley Exit south on State Road 77 and follow signs to the park.
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- GHOST WALK & HISTORY TOUR
Camp Helen State Park
Date: Saturday, Oct 10th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Camp Helen State Park and the Friends of Camp Helen invite everyone to the Fourth Annual Halloween Ghost Walk and History Tour. Camp Helen has a long and varied history, stories and spooky lore that will be shared with visitors while touring the newly restored park buildings. Ghosts, Indians, Pirates and members of the Hicks and Comer families will be brought to life through story and song. Parking will be located at the Winn Dixie parking lot, 1 mile east of the park at the junction of US 98 and Alt US 98. Free shuttle buses will run all evening during the event. Parking within the park will be limited to handicapped visitors only. Please be aware that the ground is rough in some places. Flashlights are recommended and children are welcome and encouraged to wear costumes. Spooky treats of Shipwreck Cookies and Witch’s Cauldron Punch will be served to all who attend!
Fees: Park entrance fees are waived for the event. Donations of $5.00 per adult, $3.00 per child under 12, made to the Friends of Camp Helen State Park will be appreciated.
Contact: (850) 231-1167
Directions: Camp Helen is located at 23937 Panama City Beach Parkway,Panama City Beach, FL, just west of the Phillips Inlet bridge on the Bay County and Walton county line. The entrance is South of U.S. Hwy 98 and approximately 6 miles west of State road 79.
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- GREAT STRIDES WALK FOR CYSTIC FIBROSIS
St. Andrews State Park
Date: Saturday, October 17th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s St. Andrews State Park is hosting the Great Strides Walk for Cystic Fibrosis. This event promotes public awareness as well as helps to raise much needed funds for a possible cure some day.
Fees: Park entrance fee waived for participants.
Contact: (850) 233-5164
Directions: From Hwy 98 turn South on to Hwy 3031 (Thomas Drive) and follow it straight to Hwy 392 and turn left to enter into the gates of St. Andrews State Park. St. Andrews State Park is located approximately 3 miles east of Hwy 392.
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- EVENING CRUISE AND DINNER
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
Date: Saturday, Oct 24th at 6:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Wakulla Springs Lodge & State Park invites you to come along and enjoy the glory of autumn as it begins to reveal itself along the Wakulla River. Celebrate with an evening cruise followed by a delicious dinner in the historic Wakulla Springs Lodge. For more information, visit www.floridastateparks.org/wakullasprings.
Fees: $32 Adults, $20 Children 12 and under. Res Suggest
Contact: (850) 926-0700
Directions: Traveling East on I-10 to new Exit 196 (old Exit 28). Take SR-263 (Capitol Circle) South 12 miles. Turn right (South) onto US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance. From West I-10 use new Exit 203(old Exit 30). Take SR-61 (Thomasville Rd) South. Continue on SR-61 thru Tallahassee for 10 miles. Take US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) South for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance.
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- JAZZ AND SCARECROWS IN THE GARDENS
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
Date: Sunday, Oct 25th from 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park and the Friends of Maclay Gardens, Inc. (Friends) are looking for a few individuals or groups interested in creating a one-of-a-kind scarecrow for our fall exhibition and competition in the gardens. Prizes will be awarded and exhibitors will receive a discount on tickets to the concert that will mark the event finale. For entry details, please contact the park or the Friends. Visitors may view the scarecrows display, with paid park admission from October 3rd to November 1st. On October 25th at 4:30 p.m., a Musical Garden Stroll will feature a mixture of musical styles; Jazz in the Gardens will follow at 7:00 p.m., with the Deborah Lawson Group performing on the Maclay House porch. Advance concert tickets may be purchased for $75.00 for up to 6 people per vehicle or at the gate for $100.00. Attendees are encouraged to bring their families, friends, picnics and blankets or chairs for a fun fall evening of music outdoors. The Friends are seeking the support of local businesses in their presentation of this new event. Please contact their president for information in becoming a sponsor. Together we can make a difference in the preservation and maintenance of this unique resource in our community. 4:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Sunday, October 25, 2009
Fees: Park entrance fees will be waived to participants.
Contact: (850) 487-4115 or Friends President, Betsy Kellenberger, (850) 893-2951
Directions: Maclay State Gardens is located one half mile north of I-10 on U.S. 319.
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- SPIRIT OF THE CAVERNS
Florida Caverns State Park
Date: Friday & Saturday, Oct 30 – 31, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Caverns State Park and the Friends of Florida Caverns will be hosting the Spirit of the Caverns festival. The theme of this event is the interpretation of the ‘spirits and folklore’ of our ancestors that have used the land that we now call Florida Caverns State Park.
Fees: Park entrance fees waived to participants.
Contact: (850) 573-0390
Directions: Florida Caverns State Park is located 3 Miles North of Marianna, Off of U.S. 90 on S.R. 166. From Tallahassee: Take I-10 west to exit 142, turn right on Hwy 71 N to Hwy 90, turn left. Follow brown park signs. From Pensacola: Take I-10 East to exit 136, turn left on Hwy 276 N to Hwy 90, turn right. Follow brown park signs.
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- 3RD ANNUAL HAUNTED TRAIL AND FANTASYLAND
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Date: Friday & Saturday, Oct 30-31 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Topsail Hill Preserve State Park will be having their 3rd Annual Haunted Trail and Fantasyland. Choose between a fully-frightening trail for adults and children over 12 for $3 a person, a “scare free” walking loop with treats for $1 for young children to go through the trick or treat trail or the fun games with prizes and face painting for a $1. Drinks and food will be sold for donation with all of the proceeds going to the Friends of Topsail Hill. Event is on Hwy 30A 2/10 mile off Hwy 98. Call for more information.
Fees: Park entrance fees will be waived to participants.
Contact: (850) 267-0299
Directions: Located in Santa Rosa Beach 10 miles east of Destin, FL. Take Interstate 10 to Exit 85 (Defuniak Springs) and follow U.S. Highway 331 south. Travel 27 miles to U.S. Highway 98. Turn right and travel approximately 5 miles west to scenic Highway 30A. Turn left and go ¼ mile to the entrance on the right.
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- WETLANDS TOUR
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
Date: Saturday, Nov 7th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Wakulla Springs Lodge & State Park invites you to come explore the area floodplain and learn about the plant and animal life that rely on this environment for their existence. Make a day of it with breakfast before or lunch afterwards at the historic Wakulla Springs Lodge. Call (850) 926-0700 for dining reservations. Reservations suggested. For more information, visit www.floridastateparks.org/wakullasprings.
Fees: Event is free with park paid admission.
Contact: (850) 926-0700
Directions: Traveling East on I-10 to new Exit 196 (old Exit 28). Take SR-263 (Capitol Circle) South 12 miles. Turn right (South) onto US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance. From West I-10 use new Exit 203(old Exit 30). Take SR-61 (Thomasville Rd) South. Continue on SR-61 thru Tallahassee for 10 miles. Take US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) South for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance.
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- FALL PIONEER DAY
Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park
Date: Saturday, Nov 7th from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park will hold its fall Pioneer Day event on November 7, 2009. This event is sponsored by the Friends of Emerald Coast State Parks. Family activities will include candle-dipping, soap making, blacksmithing, rag doll making, weaving and campfire cooking demonstration. Other special activities include live dulcimer and flute music, quilting, storytelling and more. The main feature is a restored late 1800’s chuck wagon. Activities and displays range from musical entertainment to hands on pioneer crafts. For more information, visit www.floridastateparks.org/rockybayou.
Fees: Admission to the event is free.
Contact: (850) 833-9144
Directions: From the west: Take Interstate 10 east to highway 85 south until you reach highway 20. Go east on highway 20. Park will be approximately 5 miles on the left. From the east: Take Interstate 10 west to highway 331 south until you reach highway 20. Go west on highway 20 approximately 25 miles until you see signs for park on right.
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- TWILIGHT CRUISE AND DINNER
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
Date: Saturday, Nov 21st at 5:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Wakulla Springs Lodge & State Park to come and enjoy the colors of the foliage along the Wakulla River at their peak basked in the warm glow of twilight. Relax with a soothing cruise followed by a delicious dinner in the historic Wakulla Springs Lodge. For more information, visit www.floridastateparks.org/wakullasprings.
Fees: $32 Adults, $20 Children 12 and under. Res Suggest
Contact: (850) 926-0700
Directions: Traveling East on I-10 to new Exit 196 (old Exit 28). Take SR-263 (Capitol Circle) South 12 miles. Turn right (South) onto US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance. From West I-10 use new Exit 203(old Exit 30). Take SR-61 (Thomasville Rd) South. Continue on SR-61 thru Tallahassee for 10 miles. Take US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) South for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance.
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- CAMELLIA CHRISTMAS 2009
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
Date: Friday, Dec 4th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park invites the community to celebrate the Christmas Season at the 21st Annual Camellia Christmas. A candle-lit stroll through the gardens accompanied by holiday music performed by local artists is the perfect way to share the holiday spirit with friends and loved ones. Bid on holiday finery for your home or for a gift at the silent auction, which will include items donated by local merchants, artists and florists. Hot apple cider and holiday cookies will be served.
Fees: Park Entrance Fee is waived for participants
Contact: (850) 487-4115
Directions: Maclay State Gardens is located one half mile north of I-10 on U.S. 319.
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- HOLIDAY CRUISE AND DINNER
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
Date: Saturday, Dec 19th at 5:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Wakulla Springs Lodge & State Park invites you and your family to take an evening out for a cruise on the Wakulla River followed by dinner in the historic lodge and an old-fashioned sing-a-long in the lobby by the Christmas tree. For more information, visit www.floridastateparks.org/wakullasprings.
Fees: $32 Adults, $20 Children 12 and under. Res Suggest
Contact: (850) 926-0700
Directions: Traveling East on I-10 to new Exit 196 (old Exit 28). Take SR-263 (Capitol Circle) South 12 miles. Turn right (South) onto US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance. From West I-10 use new Exit 203(old Exit 30). Take SR-61 (Thomasville Rd) South. Continue on SR-61 thru Tallahassee for 10 miles. Take US-319/SR-61 (Crawfordville Hwy) South for 2 miles. Bear left onto SR-61(Wakulla Springs Rd) for 6 miles. Turn left onto SR-267 at flashing stop light. Turn Right into Park entrance.
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- CANDLELIGHT TOUR OF THE WESLEY HO– — USE
Eden Gardens State Park
Date: Saturday, December 19th from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Eden Gardens State Park and the Friends of Eden invite you to join us for a holiday tour. Enjoy the traditional walk through the luminaries to the Historic Wesley House to enjoy it’s beautifully seasonally decorated rooms and be greeted by Civil War reenactors in period garb. After the tour is completed, the Friends of Eden will be providing refreshments in the pavilion and the reenactors will welcome you to the small encampment on the North lawn of the house beyond the Reflecting Pool. It’s an evening meant to be enjoyed by all who attend. Donations to the Friends of Eden Gardens are welcome and appreciated. To volunteer or for additional information call the park office.
Fees: Admission fees to the park and the event are waived.
Contact: (850) 231-1167
Directions: Eden Gardens State Park is located in Point Washington, off U.S. 98 on C.R. 395.
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- SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER
Eden Gardens State Park
Date: Saturday Jan 23rd from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. & Sunday, Jan 24th from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Eden Gardens State Park will host the 17th Annual School of the Soldier event led by 7th Vermont Company D (Walton Guard). This will be the 146th anniversary of the actual event that took place in the Point Washington area during the Civil War in 1864 between the 7th Vermont Volunteers and a Confederate unit. Visitors can expect to observe Rifle and Light Infantry Tactics as well as Artillery Demonstrations, Drills and Skirmishes. There will also be Medical Demonstrations, a Ladies Tea and examples of Period Camp Life as well as a period Cook Tent and a Blacksmith. For an event schedule please call the park office.
Fees: Event is free with paid park entrance fees.
Contact: (850) 231-1167
Directions: Eden Gardens State Park is located in Point Washington, off U.S. 98 on C.R. 395.
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- STONE AGE AND PRIMITIVE ARTS FESTIVAL
Ochlockonee River State Park
Date: Friday through Sunday, Feb 12-14, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Ochlockonee River State Park is hosting the Third Annual Stone Age and Primitive Arts Festival. Visitors will experience “hands-on” learning as experts demonstrate techniques used thousands of years ago in day to day life. Visitors will also see projectile point fashioning, also known as flint-knapping, which is the art of chipping stone into tools, bow and arrow construction, basket weaving and early pottery methods. According to archeological research, Ochlockonee River’s rich history of humans interacting with nature goes back 12,000 years.
Fees: Park entrance fee includes access to all events.
Contact: (850) 962-2771
Directions: Ochlockonee River State Park is located four miles south of Sopchoppy on U.S. 319.
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- CAMELLIA FEST AT EDEN GARDENS
Eden Gardens State Park
Date: Saturday, February 20th from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Eden Gardens State Park and the Friends of Eden Gardens would like to invite everyone to their annual Camellia Fest. Families are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch. Festivities will include talks on Camellia identification, air layering (propagation), general maintenance and pest control of Camellias and floral and waxing blossoms demonstrations. There will also be living history demonstrators in the park teaching about the skills of past generations including turpentine, soap and candle making as well as historical talks. We will have archaeologists talking about the local area history with archaeological objects. Parking inside the park is some what limited. To volunteer or for additional information call the park office.
Fees: Event is free with paid park entrance fees.
Contact: (850) 231-1167
Directions: Eden Gardens State Park is located in Point Washington, off U.S. 98 on C.R. 395.
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- EASTER AT EDEN GARDENS
Eden Gardens State Park
Date: Sunday, April 4th from 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Description: The Department of Environmental Protection’s Eden Gardens State Park and the Friends of Eden Gardens would like to invite everyone to Easter at Eden. Families are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch. The Easter Bunny will be arriving at 1:00 p.m. and Egg Hunts will be open to children at 1:30 p.m. Volunteers to help with the egg hunt are always appreciated. The Friends of Eden will be helping to hide the eggs for the children as well as selling refreshments. Parking inside the park is some what limited. Donations to the Friends of Eden Gardens are welcome and appreciated. To volunteer or for additional information call the park office.
Fees: Park entrance fees will be waived to participants.
Contact: (850) 231-1167
Directions: Eden Gardens State Park is located in Point Washington, off U.S. 98 on C.R. 395.
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Florida State Park Events | Fall – Winter 2009| Northwest Florida
