Florida State Parks Grapple With $759 Million Repair Backlog, New Report Finds

Florida State Parks Grapple With $759 Million Repair Backlog, New Report Finds

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida’s award-winning state parks system, long celebrated for its natural beauty and historic treasures, is facing a massive $759 million backlog in needed repairs and maintenance, according to a newly released statewide review.

The findings highlight years of deferred work across the sprawling system, which includes 850 historic sites, more than 500 pavilions, nearly 90,000 feet of boardwalks, and 3,300 campsites. Officials say the backlog represents a significant increase compared to what the state has been funding in recent legislative sessions.

A System Strained by Age and Heavy Use

State parks across Florida have seen record visitation in recent years as population growth and tourism continue to climb. But while foot traffic and demand have risen, maintenance budgets have not kept pace.

The report indicates that many facilities are showing clear signs of deterioration:

• Boardwalks are aging and in some cases unsafe,

• Restrooms and shelters need upgrades,

• Trails and access points require stabilization, and

• Historic structures need preservation work to prevent irreversible damage.

Park managers warn that the gap between available funding and needed repairs has widened to the point where basic safety, accessibility, and environmental protection could be at stake.

Environmental and Visitor Impacts

Deferred maintenance doesn’t just inconvenience visitors — it threatens the health of Florida’s natural and historical resources.

Damaged boardwalks and eroded trails can harm wetlands and sensitive habitats. Aging infrastructure can compromise wildlife areas or expose fragile ecosystems to unintended damage. And deteriorating historic buildings — some over a century old — become harder and more expensive to restore the longer repairs are delayed.

For millions of Floridians who rely on state parks for recreation, education, and outdoor access, the report signals potential future closures, limited services, or reduced visitor capacity if funding continues to lag.

Southwest Florida Among Areas at Risk

Communities in Southwest Florida, including Cape Coral, Naples, and Fort Myers, are home to several heavily used parks with aging infrastructure. Local officials and environmental groups say the backlog underscores the need for long-term investment to preserve the region’s beaches, mangroves, waterways, and wildlife corridors.

What Happens Next

The release of the report is expected to spark debate in the 2026 legislative session, where lawmakers will face pressure to boost funding, pursue new infrastructure bonds, or rethink how the parks system is managed.

Advocates warn that continued underinvestment could undermine a system that has repeatedly won national awards and contributes significantly to Florida’s tourism economy.

In the months ahead, Floridians may see park improvement plans rolled out — or, if funding doesn’t materialize, announcements of temporary closures and restricted access while safety hazards are addressed.