At the end of last week, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the Great Outdoors Initiative to encourage Floridians to go outdoors and explore Florida’s natural resources, including our award-winning state parks, vast recreation areas, and world-renowned waterways.

As part of the Great Outdoors Initiative, DeSantis signed Executive Order 23-209 (The Great Outdoors Initiative) directing the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to provide a significant 50 percent discount on annual state park passes and FWC Gold Sportsman hunting and fishing licenses.

Beginning at the end of last week and extending three months through Jan. 13, 2024, DEP will temporarily offer Florida State Parks annual passes for families and individuals at a 50 percent discount, while FWC will be discounting its annual resident Gold Sportsman license, five-year Gold Sportsman license and Lifetime Sportsman license by 50 percent.

“Florida is home to some of the best state parks, waterways and recreational lands in the country, and I encourage all Floridians to get outdoors, experience our extraordinary natural resources and enjoy our fundamental right to hunt and fish,” said DeSantis. “We are now making it more affordable for families to get outside and enjoy these wonders by offering state park passes and fishing and hunting licenses at sharply discounted rates.”

“Governor DeSantis’ promotion of conservative resource stewardship is unparalleled,” said Department of Environmental Protection Sec. Shawn Hamilton. “It is because of this leadership that we can get outside and still experience the real Florida firsthand. I encourage all Floridians to get outdoors and take advantage of this incredible opportunity.”

“Florida remains one of the country’s top destinations for world-class fishing and unique hunting opportunities,” said Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Chairman Rodney Barreto. “I encourage families to take advantage of this incredible offer with a discounted license and enjoy the abundant hunting and fishing recreational opportunities our state offers.”

With 175 award-winning state parks, trails and historic sites spanning nearly 800,000 acres and 100 miles of sandy beaches, Florida is the only four-time winner of the Gold Medal honoring the nation’s best park system. Florida State Parks provided an economic benefit to Florida last fiscal year of over $3.6 billion while supporting more than 50,000 jobs.

Florida State Parks Annual Passes will have a 50 percent discount and will be available at the following rates:

Family Annual Pass – $60, plus tax.
Individual Annual Pass – $30, plus tax.
Florida is the Fishing Capital of the World, and FWC offers freshwater and saltwater fishing licenses for experiencing the best of coastal and inland fishing options, along with unique hunting opportunities.

The following FWC Gold Sportsman licenses, which include the saltwater fishing, freshwater fishing, hunting privileges and all associated permits, will also be discounted by 50 percent and will be available at the following rates, plus applicable fees:

Annual Gold Sportsman – $50.75.
Five-year Gold Sportsman – $247.75.
Lifetime Sportsman License
Age 4 or younger – $201.50.
Ages 5–12 – $351.50.
Ages 13 and older – $501.50.