Louise Young set the groundwork for the formal gardens that became Washington Oaks Gardens State Park.

Charlotte Niedhauk and her husband were island caretakers and pioneers in the Florida Keys.

Bertie Boomer was a talented artist who influenced art in the utopian society of Koreshan Unity.

Lamar Louise Curry chose a life of teaching instead of life of luxury. Her family’s property is now Curry Hammock State Park.

Margaret Hicks built the Lodge and the Rainbow Cottages at what is now Camp Helen State Park.

Learn about Florida’s history through the artifacts and objects found at our state parks. These items tell the stories of the people who once lived on these lands. Learn about their challenges and their successes.

This month we celebrate the stories of women who have played leading roles in the history of Florida State Parks. Their accomplishments vary from helping preserve land to building formal gardens.

Lois Maxon traveled the world collecting antiques, which are now displayed at Wesley House at Eden Gardens State Park.

Removing exotic plants and applying prescribed fire to the landscape helps with ecosystem health.

The land slopes from hydric hammock to wet flatwoods and wet prairie before reaching the river. Sabal palms and live oaks tower overhead. Saw palmetto, wax myrtle and wild coffee line the trails. This area provides habitat for eight species of protected plants and 15 species of protected animals.