What is the creation date of Henderson Beach State Park?

Introduction to Henderson Beach State Park

Henderson Beach State Park is a beautiful oasis located in the northwest of Florida. Its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear emerald waters make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, and migratory birds. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, and picnicking in this serene natural setting.

History of Henderson Beach State Park

Before it became a state park, the area that is now Henderson Beach State Park was used for military training during World War II. In the 1960s, the land was acquired by the Henderson family, who used it as a private vacation retreat. In 1983, the family donated the land to the state of Florida, with the condition that it be preserved as a natural area for public use.

The Creation of Henderson Beach State Park

Henderson Beach State Park was officially established in 1991, after several years of planning and development. The park encompasses over 6,000 feet of pristine shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico, as well as several acres of natural sand dunes and coastal scrub habitat. The park is named after the Henderson family, who generously donated the land to the state of Florida for public use.

The Founding Fathers of the Park

The creation of Henderson Beach State Park was made possible by the efforts of several key individuals and organizations. These included the Henderson family, who donated the land to the state, as well as local conservation groups and government officials who worked to secure funding and support for the park.

Planning and Development of the Park

The planning and development of Henderson Beach State Park involved several stages, including site surveys, environmental assessments, and public input sessions. The park was designed to protect the natural resources of the area, while also providing recreational opportunities for visitors. This involved the construction of facilities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and nature trails, as well as the restoration of natural habitats and dunes.

Henderson Beach State Park Today

Today, Henderson Beach State Park is a popular destination for visitors from around the world. The park is managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and offers a range of activities and amenities for visitors of all ages. These include swimming, fishing, hiking, nature trails, and guided tours.

Features of Henderson Beach State Park

Some of the unique features of Henderson Beach State Park include its natural sand dunes, which provide important habitat for a variety of plants and animals. The park is also home to several species of sea turtles, which nest on its beaches during the summer months. Visitors can learn more about these fascinating creatures at the park’s interpretive center.

Visiting Henderson Beach State Park

Visitors to Henderson Beach State Park can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The park also offers several educational programs for visitors of all ages, including nature walks, bird-watching tours, and beach ecology talks.

Park Hours and Fees

Henderson Beach State Park is open daily from 8:00am to sunset. The park charges an admission fee of $6 per vehicle, which includes access to all facilities and amenities within the park.

Contact Information for Henderson Beach State Park

For more information about Henderson Beach State Park, including hours of operation, fees, and activities, visitors can contact the park directly at:

Henderson Beach State Park
17000 Emerald Coast Parkway
Destin, Florida 32541
Phone: (850) 837-7550

Conclusion: The Importance of Henderson Beach State Park

Henderson Beach State Park is an important natural resource for the state of Florida, and a vital habitat for a variety of plants and animals. The park provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the beauty and diversity of the Gulf Coast region, while also learning about the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship.