Day-Use Entry Reservation Pilot Program Information

Day-Use Entry Reservation Pilot Program Information 

Reservations required for entry are coming to Wekiwa Springs State Park. 

The Florida Park Service is proud to announce a new pilot program that will introduce reservations for day-use entry at Wekiwa Springs State Park. 

Previously, lines to enter the park began forming hours prior to the park opening. These lines stretched far back, blocking Wekiwa Springs Road and delaying traffic daily. 

The park entry fee will be collected online at the time of reservation. There is no additional fee to make a day-use reservation. 

FAQs 

What is happening at Wekiwa Springs State Park?  

Beginning March 12, 2025, Wekiwa Springs State Park will implement a reservation pilot program. All day-use park guests, including annual passholders, must have a reservation for entry to the park. The window for advanced reservations opens March 10, 2025. The program will last through Sept. 1, 2025. 

Why is Florida State Parks implementing this reservation pilot program?  

The switch to a reservation pilot program from March 12, 2025, to Sept. 1, 2025, is intended to reduce entrance lines at Wekiwa Springs State Park that currently stretch into traffic, causing significant disruptions and long wait times for visitors trying to enter the park. 

Which parks are using day-use reservations?  

The pilot program is only being implemented at Wekiwa Springs State Park. The Florida Park Service will assess the success of the pilot program at Wekiwa Springs to determine whether it should be continued or expanded. 

When can I make a day-use reservation?  

Advanced day-use reservations can be made starting March 10, 2025. Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance. Same-day reservations may be made until the reservation limit has been met.  

How do I get a day-use reservation?  

To obtain a park reservation, visit the park’s reservation site. A separate reservation must be made for each day. The park entry fee will be collected online at the time of reservation. There is no additional fee to make a day-use reservation. Annual passholders will be able to select “Annual Passholder” as their payment option and will still need to show their annual pass when entering the park. If you don’t have an account yet, visit reserve.floridastateparks.org now to set one up so you’re ready when the time comes to make your first reservation. 

How do you determine the number of reservations available each day? 

The number of available reservations is based on the maximum number of visitors the park can accommodate.  

What do I need to present to get into the park? 

Visitors will need proof of their reservation receipt, either digital or in print. Annual passholders will need both their reservation receipt and their annual pass. Guests who have reserved services through a concessionaire will need to present confirmation of their purchase. Camping guests need only their camping reservation information. 

Is there any way to enter without a reservation?  

During the pilot program, visitors must have a day-use reservation, a camping reservation or a concession reservation to enter the park. 

If I leave the park, am I able to re-enter with the same reservation?  

If you would like to reenter the park during your reservation, you must ask for a reentry ticket from the ranger station before exiting the park. Without this reentry ticket, reentry is not allowed.  

If I miss my day-use reservation, can I get a refund?  

The day-use entry fee is refundable if the reservation is canceled. No-shows are non-refundable.  

As a camper, is anything changing about my entry process?  

For camping guests, the entry process will remain the same as before.  

If I reserve a pavilion, can I make reservations for the guests of my event?  

You may pay for the reservations of others in conjunction with a pavilion rental. Please contact the park for more information on how to coordinate reservations for your event. 

What if I just want to enter the park to purchase an annual pass in-person? 

All forms of annual passes can be obtained at the Ranger Station at any time during regular park hours without a reservation. 

How can I provide feedback about this program?  

We value your feedback and would love to hear from you. Please send your thoughts to ReservationPilotProgram@FloridaDEP.gov.