By Beth Weidner, Park Manager
Greetings from Maclay Gardens!
We are happy that so many Gulf Winds Track Club members enjoy running on the beautiful Lake Overstreet Trails. Please remember that, per Florida Administrative Code 62D-2, there is a fee for use of the park. Please be sure to deposit $1.00 per person at the Honor Fee Station, when entering from Meridian Road at Forestmeadows. Frequent users of the park may prefer to obtain an annual pass, as it represents a considerable savings over the cost of $1.00 per day. An Individual Entry Pass is $30.00 plus tax, and a family pass is $60.00 plus tax. They can be purchased at the park Ranger Station, just off of Thomasville Road at the Maclay Gardens entry. The passes are good for entry to ALL state parks, except Homosasa Springs, and the Skyway Bridge Fishing Pier, where they are good for a 33% discount. Many people have the annual pass laminated, punch a hole in one corner, and use a safety pin to attach it to running shorts or cap. Please also remember that the park hours of operation are from 8 a.m. until sunset daily.
Our Florida Park Patrol law enforcement officers have been helping us recently to monitor and interpret compliance with the fee payment rule. Park Staff also patrol trails, and may ask you to show either your pass, or the receipt from the Honor Fee envelope. We very much appreciate your cooperation and support of the Florida Park Service. If you have any questions, please feel free to call me at 487-4115, e-mail: elizabeth.weidner@dep.state.fl.us, Web address: www.FloridaStateParks.org