Impact
WHY FLORIDA STATE PARKS AND TRAILS ARE IMPORTANT TO FLORIDA’S ECONOMIC HEALTH
The system of Florida State Parks & Trails is one of the state’s greatest success stories. They contribute mightily to our state’s tourism industry while preserving the jewels of our natural environment and significant historical and cultural sites.
ECONOMIC STIMULUS & SO MUCH MORE
Visitors from around the world are drawn to Florida’s state parks, and for Florida residents, these are the places we go to swim, fish, lay on the beach, hunt for shells, and learn about nature and Florida history. We hike, bike, kayak, and even get married in Florida State Parks!
State parks and trails located in small towns and rural areas are sometimes the only economic driver in the community. Visitors coming to these parks spend dollars for lodging and in restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, bait shops, etc. If not for state park operations these businesses might not otherwise exist.
STATEWIDE ECONOMIC DATA
IN 2022, FLORIDA STATE PARKS & TRAILS SERVED MORE THAN 32 MILLION VISITORS GENERATING:
$3.9 billion direct economic impact on local economies throughout the state
Over $267 million was contributed to the state’s general revenues in the form of state sales taxes
More than 55,000 jobs were supported by state park operations
Support Our State Parks
Support of our award-winning state parks will help ensure their continued role in creating jobs and contributing to a healthy state economy.
Volunteer at your local state park or trail–you’ll find great comradery, fun, and team work
Become a member of the Florida State Parks Foundation and your local state park Friends’ group (Citizen Support Organization)– membership dollars and numbers are important
Find out what special projects need funding and donate toward their successful completion
