Message from Our Director

Warm Woolen Mittens and Winter Traditions 

These are a few of my favorite things: 

One of the things I enjoy about December is spending time with family. If your winter traditions include giving gifts to family and friends, I’d like to suggest an annual entrance pass to Florida’s state parks. Individual and family passes are available and allow the cardholder to visit parks all year long.  

On Wednesday, Dec. 25, many businesses will be closed for Christmas. Most of Florida’s state parks will be open their regular hours, 8 a.m. to sunset. After your festivities or when you need to entertain your visitors or children, start a new tradition and head to your local state park — it’s a great place to try out that shiny new bike that Santa brought. Don’t forget your helmet! 

If you visit a park during the holiday season, I hope you’ll offer a smile and a hello for the staff and volunteers you meet. These remarkable people work tirelessly to provide our visitors the best experience possible throughout the year, and especially during the holidays.  

Another tradition that I really enjoy during December is using the quiet moments between the holiday bustle to think on the past year and make plans for the next one. My goals usually include more exercise and more fresh air. I always plan a First Day Hike on New Year’s Day. If you didn’t get any time to reflect during the holidays, a peaceful trail on Jan. 1 is a perfect place to start. At some parks, you can join a ranger for an organized event, or you can plan your own hike on any trail. 

Happy holidays and see you in the parks, 

Chuck Hatcher, Director

Florida State Parks