Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page. A Newsletter of Florida State Parks | #FLStateParks Kissimmee Preserve Prairie designated Dark Sky Park for astronomers

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park has been designated an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association. The first state park in Florida to be a designated dark-sky location, Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park has more than 53,000 acres for people who want to explore Florida. Located in a remote area of south central Florida in Okeechobee and Osceola Counties, the night sky around Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park is a cultural and natural resource and is one of the best in the peninsula of Florida. Several astronomy groups venture to the preserve for imagery, to capture photos, star hop, or simply to gaze at the universe. Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park is the first state park to build an astronomy pad dedicated for the use of observing the night sky. Darkness plays a significant role in the health of wildlife and humans. At the preserve, light pollution, which is the excessive use of artificial light, does not threaten star-gazers and enthusiasts from getting prime visuals of the night sky. The Florida Park Service strives to preserve and maintain native Florida landscape for generations to come. This park provides a place where visitors can come to connect with the stars. A public ceremony will be held on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016 to celebrate this designation. More information about this and the International Dark Sky Association can be found at www.IDA.org or www.FloridaStateParks.org. This month at State Parks, Trails and Historic Sites

Where To Find Manatees

Each year, thousands of admirers gather to watch the manatees swim in the freshwater springs for the winter. As mammals, water temperatures are important for their health. The 72-degree springs are warmer than the river, ocean and Gulf of Mexico. You can follow our "Springs" board on Pinterest for pictures and information on Florida State Parks' springs. The Real Florida Passport Back by popular demand - the Real Florida Passport is your perfect companion while visiting Florida State Parks! The Pioneer Edition contains 56 pages of fun facts, a state map of the parks, plenty of space to make notes and stamp which parks you've visited so far. Buckle up and let the journey begin! Order your Passport today and visit a park near you! What's Available This Weekend? Are you looking for a cool place to camp this weekend? Visit ReserveAmerica.com and click on our new camping this weekend feature to find state park campgrounds with open campsites for the weekend! While you enjoy nature, share your star-studded moments with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram by using #sleepunderthestars. We’d love to see your photos! Events in January

22nd Annual Ford & Mustang Roundup

Silver Springs State Park, Ocala Saturday, Jan. 9, 10 a.m. Enjoy the classics with hobbyists and friends at the 22nd Annual Ford & Mustang Roundup. The Roundup has no judges. Whether classic or modern, stock or modified, you're welcome to attend. National Parts Depot will be on hand showcasing its products. Registration to display your car must be turned in by January 1 or fee is $10. >> View Event 2016 Americana Concert Series

Camp Helen State Park, Panama City Beach Saturday, Jan. 9 & Jan. 23 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Camp Helen State Park will host The Americana Concert Series with five live performances starting in January throughout the month of March. The January series will kick off by highlighting folk rock trio The Currys and folk heritage duo Steve Gillette and Cindy Mangsen. Both performances promise rich harmony, compelling songs and a good dose of humor. >> View Event Panhandle Outdoor Recreation Workshop

Gulf Coast State College, Panama City Saturday, Jan. 19, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

The Florida Panhandle Outdoor Recreation Workshop, a project of Florida's Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), will be conducted to present materials on and discuss health and economic benefits, improving public access, reconnecting people to the outdoors and more. >> View Event The Florida Challenge Alafia River State Park, Lithia Sunday, Jan. 24, 8 a.m.

Runner's World has named the Florida Challenge as one of the best 32 trail runs in the country. Alafia River State Park has some of the state’s best single track trails. While the trails are tough, they are great fun. Go to TampaRaces.com for registration and complete information. >> View Event Other Important News

Gift Cards Now Available Give the gift of sleeping under the stars in Florida State Parks! Florida State Parks offers Gift Cards which can be used to make reservations for camping and cabins at participating Florida State Parks. Mobile App for Smartphones Plan your state park adventures using the new Pocket Ranger® app for your smartphone. The FREE Florida State Parks Pocket Ranger® mobile app is available now on iTunes, Android Market and PocketRanger.com Get Your Annual Pass Today Shop our online store at Shop.FloridaStateParks.org for annual passes, passports, shirts, water bottles, backpacks and more.