photo of man and child reading book during daytime

Volusia County Libraries Announce New Partnership With The Real Florida Reader Program 

The Volusia County Public Library System has partnered with Florida State Parks, the Florida Department of State, and Florida’s Division of Library Services to offer library patrons access to Florida State Parks through the Real Florida Reader Program. Now through Sept. 12, 2022, VCPLS card holders may check out a Real Florida Reader day pass for free admission for up to eight people at more … Continue reading Volusia County Libraries Announce New Partnership With The Real Florida Reader Program 

Make a Splash @ Weeki Wachee Springs State Park 

Photos by Kelsey Walters  Growing up, I may have had a slight obsession with mermaids. Ariel was my spirit animal and I wanted nothing more than to live under the sea. It’s no secret that my love for the merfolk lives on today, and I am absolutely thrilled that my infatuation has been passed down to my daughter, Avery.  Newly 4 years old, mermaids aren’t … Continue reading Make a Splash @ Weeki Wachee Springs State Park 

Top 5 Best Natural Springs in Florida

Our state has over 700 natural springs. Each day, eight billion gallons of water flows from our underground aquifer at a constant 72-degrees. With so many to choose from, it’s easy to find a refreshing watering hole to beat the summer heat. Here are the locals’ top 5 favorite spots, both near and a little farther, to dive in! Ask a Local – Best Natural … Continue reading Top 5 Best Natural Springs in Florida

crystal river and Homosassa things to do

History Right Beneath Your Feet

Photos by Kelsey and Scott Walters Crystal River Archaeological State Park  Given Florida’s rich history, it’s likely that just about everywhere you explore has a bit of a past. Dating back to prehistoric times, much of the land we live, work and play on today was once a site of significance to Native Americans.  Ancient middens dot the state’s landscape, with the most notable local … Continue reading History Right Beneath Your Feet

Florida State Parks Slowly Reopen

On Friday, May 1, 2020, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced that beginning Monday, May 4, some Florida State Parks will re-open access to trails, day use areas and beach access with limited facilities. This does not include all Florida state parks at this time. Limited List of Florida State Parks Reopen Monday with Restrictions Effective Monday, May 4, DEP will implement phase one to reopen … Continue reading Florida State Parks Slowly Reopen

Florida State Parks Closed Until Further Notice

UPDATE 3/23/2020 Effective today, Monday, March 23, 2020, all Florida State Parks will be closed and remain closed until further notice due to coronavirus COVID-19. Although Florida State Parks limited their hours and capacity limits last week, this did not create the needed reductions in residents visiting the parks in order to slow the spread of the virus. March 21, 2020 While many Floridians are … Continue reading Florida State Parks Closed Until Further Notice

Home on the Range

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park – FL’s First State Preserve  All photos by Kelsey Walters If you’ve ever visited the Gainesville area, or even just driven through, you may have noticed a huge expanse of undeveloped land.  Things to Do Outdoors in Florida The sleepy little town of Micanopy, located just south of Gainesville, is home to an array of antique stores and quaint cafes…as … Continue reading Home on the Range

One for the History Books

Dudley Farm Historic State Park, Newberry Photos/Text by Kelsey Walters  Family Activities Near Gainesville Many people think of the Sunshine State as a land of sunburnt tourists, teeming with gators and home to the world’s most famous mouse.  Before Walt Disney settled into Central Florida and made it one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, Florida had a lengthy history of war, exploration and … Continue reading One for the History Books

manatees swimming in green spring water under foliage

Sea Cow Snuggle Season

St. Johns River Cruises @ Blue Spring State Park Things to Do in Central Florida Florida or Bust It’s officially manatee snuggle season, and the big squishies are out in full force throughout Central Florida’s springs huddling in the waters to keep warm!  No other spring has quite the reputation for manatee spotting like Blue Spring State Park in Orange City. With nearly 500 snuggly … Continue reading Sea Cow Snuggle Season