Pioneering Park Interpretation

Celebrating Women’s History Month.

Carol Beck is one of the most significant figures in the history of Highlands Hammock State Park. Her long association with the Florida Park Service spans her work as a botanist from 1949 to 1971.  

Her career journey began at Purdue University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in biology and a master's degree in botany. Arriving in Florida in 1934, she was initially involved with education and taught science for 10 years.

Carol Beck was a “boundary breaker.” She was the first female field employee and later became the first chief naturalist for the Florida Park Service, where she was instrumental in determining state park policies for interpretation and conservation.  

Carol Beck deeply loved the Florida outdoors, and as a pioneer in interpretation, she recognized the importance of visitors seeing remote areas of the park. When she hitched up a wagon to a four-wheel drive vehicle in the 1950s, she launched the park’s original tram tours. This tour remains one of the park’s most popular attractions.

The Florida Federation of Garden Clubs donated a plaque in 1972 naming the tour “Carol H. Beck Nature Tour” and commemorated her work with the words “In Recognition for Selfless Service as a State Park Naturalist.”

Carol Beck was influential in advancing public understanding and appreciation of Highlands Hammock. “Miss Beck” is remembered with great affection and respect by those who visited the park as children. Her contributions have made lasting changes at the park and her legacy resounds to this day. 

Most recently, the Highlands County Audubon Society Board constructed a wildlife observation pavilion and an interpretive kiosk in the park to honor Beck’s love of the environment and provide more opportunities for people to learn about nature.

The project, completed in January 2020, recognizes her commitment to promoting awareness of natural areas, specifically Highlands Hammock State Park.