PANAMA CITY, FL - The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is encouraging Florida residents to plan their "staycation" at any one of Florida's 161 award-winning state parks.  

"A "staycation" is a great way for travelers to get away without depleting their wallets and gas tanks and explore Florida's natural and cultural resources in their own backyards," said DEP's Division of Recreation and Parks Director Mike Bullock. "With Florida's abundance of springs, rivers and beaches in state parks, guests can beat the summer heat while remaining close to home and avoiding the stress of a long distance trip."

To locate a slice of ...the Real FloridaSM within a 100-mile radius of a select Florida city, log on to the Florida State Parks Web page at www.floridastateparks.org. The One-Tank Adventures feature can be found by selecting "Find a Park," then "Find State Parks near a Florida City." By visiting Florida's natural and cultural resources instead of making an out-of-state road trip not only reduces expenses it also enables travelers' to reduce their carbon footprint, enjoy an unique part of nature and remain environmentally conscientious. 

"Staycations" don't have to be expensive either, the regular park entrance fee for most state parks is $4 per carload of two to eight people, $3 for one person in a car and $1 per pedestrian or bicyclist. 

To locate a Florida State Park or plan a state park "staycation," visit www.floridastateparks.org.