Ruben and Jann’s love of the outdoors inspires them to help preserve Florida’s natural landscapes.

John McKenzie, or Mac as his co-workers and friends know him, is the environmental specialist at Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park and is most at home when he is outdoors helping restore Florida’s natural habitats.

Karl rejoined the Talbot team as a full-time park ranger in July of 2021 and is loving every minute of it. He enjoys hiking, swimming, shelling and reading up on historical events in his free time. He recommends visitors interested in local history like him check out the Ribault Clubhouse on Fort George Island.

Lynn loves being a part of the Talbot team, enjoying the diversity of the job, the seven different parks and the people who visit them. She is passionate about the untamed Atlantic beaches here and especially enjoys assisting with sea turtle nesting and releases.

Steve is an "I'll do anything" kind of volunteer at Rish Recreational Area. His love for nature and a background in forestry contribute greatly to his knowledge about the park.

Park Ranger James Mayor keeps William J. “Billy Joe” Rish Recreation Area beautiful and safe for visitors, volunteers, park staff, and wildlife.

Here at St. Andrews State Park, we are privileged to make meaningful connections with hard working and passionate volunteers like Gary.

In 2014, I began my Florida Park Service career as an OPS at Ichetucknee Springs State Park and later became a Ranger at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park and now; Big Shoals State Park.

Florida's state parks feature 100 miles of pristine beaches across the entire state. In honor of Clean Beaches Week, celebrated July 1 through 7, follow these tips to help keep our beaches healthy and beautiful. 

As the summer months come to a peak, what better way get outdoors than to celebrate Park and Recreation Month this July!

July is National Picnic Month! Pack a picnic lunch and invite your family and friends to a Florida State Park to enjoy good food in the natural environment. 

On Sept. 9 and 10, 2023, Florida State Parks will join with Girl Scouts across the United States to celebrate Girl Scouts Love State Parks. Girl Scout troops are invited to visit a Florida State Park to participate in activities that support the theme of "Stewardship, let's show the love!"

As the weather gets warmer, there are more beautiful days to be spent enjoying and exploring the outdoors. Celebrate Outdoors Month in June by visiting the Real Florida and connecting with nature.

Glamping - or glamorous camping - is a relaxing way to experience the outdoors in luxury. All you need is transportation and the clothes on your back to start a sensational stay. Our partners offer special glamping experiences at several state parks.

Bird-watching is a great way to learn about the environment. Birds can be seen from just about anywhere – your office window or even your front door. However, state parks and green spaces provide the greatest opportunity. Here are some beginner-friendly tips to help you keep track of your avian encounters.

The world celebrated Earth Day on April 22, an annual time to reflect on our planet and its natural wonders. This year, we'd like to acknowledge some of the work that has been and is currently being done in our state parks to ensure that Florida’s natural beauty can be enjoyed for generations.