The Florida House of Representatives has introduced House Resolution HR 8013, designating February 4, 2026, as "Florida State Parks Day." This resolution highlights the significance of Florida's state park system, which encompasses 176 parks, trails, and historic sites across over 818,000 acres, including 100 miles of pristine beaches. The parks not only provide recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, and fishing but also contribute significantly to the state's economy, generating an estimated $3.6 billion in economic impact and supporting nearly 50,000 jobs in the fiscal year 2024-2025.

Additionally, the resolution acknowledges the ecological importance of these parks, which serve as critical habitats for various native wildlife, including Florida panthers and manatees. It also celebrates the achievements of the Florida state park system, which has received the National Recreation and Park Association's Gold Medal for Excellence four times and was a finalist for the award in 2025. The resolution emphasizes the role of the Florida Forever conservation program, which has protected over 1 million acres of land, enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities and preserving vital habitats.