Staff Spotlight, David Allen
Park Ranger, David Allen
Gasparilla Island State Park
David Allen became a park ranger at Gasparilla Island State Park in 2018, hoping to share his passion for Florida’s natural areas. A New York native, Dave spent his youth hiking and camping in the mountains, where he developed a deep appreciation for nature. Dave moved to Florida in 2005 to be closer to family and to finish his undergraduate degree in business management. Upon moving to Florida, he quickly fell in love with Florida State Parks and began spending his weekends visiting every park in reach. Yearning for a job outdoors, he began working part time at Stump Pass Beach. When a park ranger position opened at Gasparilla Island State Park, he seized the opportunity and changed careers from customer service and banking to the Florida Park Service.
Dave’s welcoming personality and excitement for the job are noticed by all who visit Gasparilla Island State Park. He learns everything he can about the natural resources on the island and is eager to share his knowledge with visitors. You can often find Dave on the beach talking to guests about the many types of shells that wash ashore. He especially loves the winter months at the park, since the weather is cooler and it’s the best season for shelling.
Dave finds the challenges of being a park ranger allow for plenty of personal growth and development. He plans to build a career working with Florida State Parks and hopes to explore other parks in the state.