Explore Florida’s Historic Parks for Free this Presidents Day Weekend

In Brief:

👤 Who: Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Florida State Parks
📢 What: Free day-use park admission
📅 When: Feb. 13–16, 2026 (Presidents Day weekend)
📍 Where: Florida State Parks statewide (with limited exclusions)
🎯 Why: To recognize George Washington’s birthday and the start of America’s 250th anniversary commemorations

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida residents and visitors will be able to explore the state’s historic and natural landmarks for free this Presidents Day weekend as Florida State Parks mark George Washington’s birthday and the beginning of America’s 250th anniversary commemorations.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection announced that all Florida State Parks will offer free day-use admission from Friday, Feb. 13, through Monday, Feb. 16, 2026. The initiative is designed to encourage the public to visit locations tied to early American history while highlighting Florida’s role during the Revolutionary era.

State officials say Florida’s parks preserve more than scenic landscapes — they also protect sites connected to colonial settlements, military forts, and early trade routes that shaped the nation’s early development.

“As the nation reflects on 250 years of independence, Florida State Parks invite visitors to experience history not just through exhibits, but through the landscapes themselves,” said DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert. “Our parks offer meaningful connections to the people and events that shaped our nation.”

During the Revolutionary period, British West Florida was sometimes referred to as the “fourteenth colony,” with several modern-day parks preserving remnants of that era. Visitors can explore historical connections at sites such as Big Talbot Island State Park, Fort George Island Cultural State Park, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, Tomoka State Park, and San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park. Additional sites on Amelia Island and Fort Clinch State Park reflect the region’s military and border history.

The free admission applies to day-use entry only and does not include Skyway Fishing Pier State Park or Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park. Overnight stays, special events, and vendor-operated rentals will continue to be subject to regular pricing.

Find your park and plan your visit at FloridaStateParks.org. To learn more about Florida’s role in America’s 250th anniversary, visit America250FL.com.