Florida State Parks Offer Free Admission for Washington's Birthday Weekend

Residents can explore historic sites and landscapes tied to early American history at no cost.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 11:23am

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The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is offering free day-use admission at Florida State Parks from Friday, February 13, 2026, through Monday, February 16, 2026, in recognition of George Washington's birthday and as commemorations begin for America's 250th anniversary. The initiative is part of a broader push to connect visitors with the state's historical footprint, with several parks preserving sites connected to the Revolutionary era and British West Florida.

Why it matters

This free admission weekend provides an opportunity for Florida residents to explore the state's parks and historic sites at no cost, offering a chance to learn about the state's role in early American history as the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary. The promotion aims to highlight how Florida's parks double as outdoor classrooms and preserved landscapes tied to the Revolutionary period.

The details

The free day-use admission applies to most Florida State Parks, with the exception of Skyway Fishing Pier State Park and Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park. While admission is waived, other charges such as overnight accommodations, special events, concessions, and rentals may still apply. The parks highlighted by the Department of Environmental Protection include sites connected to the British presence in Florida, such as plantations, forts, and trading posts from the Revolutionary era.

  • The free admission period runs from Friday, February 13, 2026, through Monday, February 16, 2026.
  • The promotion is timed to coincide with George Washington's birthday and the beginning of commemorations for America's 250th anniversary.

The players

Florida Department of Environmental Protection

The state agency responsible for managing Florida's state parks and promoting their historical and environmental significance.

Alexis A. Lambert

The Secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, who described the state parks as places where visitors can experience history through the landscapes themselves.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Alexis A. Lambert, Secretary, Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FloridaStateParks.org)

What’s next

Residents interested in taking advantage of the free admission weekend can plan their visits through the Florida State Parks website (FloridaStateParks.org) and find more information about Florida's role in the 250th anniversary commemoration at America250FL.com.

The takeaway

This free admission weekend provides an opportunity for Florida residents to explore the state's parks and historic sites, learning about the state's role in early American history and the Revolutionary era as the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary. The promotion highlights how Florida's parks serve as outdoor classrooms and preserved landscapes that offer a unique way to experience the state's historical significance.