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If you’re planning to visit a Florida state park, be prepared to pay more. In an effort to keep from shutting down some of the sites, park fees went up July 1st. As Whitney Ray tells us, the price is up, but that hasn’t changed the plans of thousands of Floridians who will hike, swim, and camp at Florida’s 160 state parks this weekend.

The Laudermilch Family is visiting 10 state parks over the holiday weekend.

“You get to see what nature is really like. The kids become interested in nature and preserving it and seeing what God has created for us,” said Von Laudermilch.

And at Wakulla Springs State Park there’s plenty to see.

“Seeing all the wildlife, in general is pretty fun,” said Jeffery, Von’s son.

Viewing Florida’s natural beauty at the state’s hottest sites just got more expensive. The price of admissions at Florida’s state parks is up. Entry per car increased between one and three dollars depending on the park. Camping will cost an extra four bucks.

Even though the price has gone up, you wouldn’t know it by the crowd at Wakulla Springs. Jennifer Darnell paid six dollars to bring three kids to the park.

“Six dollars is a bargain when it keeps them occupied. I can stay out here for hours with them and it keeps them busy,” said Jennifer.

The increase will help the state park system keep all of its sites open.

“During this year’s legislative session we had a few budget cutting exercises. One of them included the temporary closure of 19 state parks,” said Jessica Kemper, the Information Director of the Florida Parks Service.

Last year 20 million people visited Florida’s state parks. The price hike isn’t expected to curb attendance. To view a list of the new entry and camping fees at Florida’s 160 state parks go to http://www.floridastateparks.org/information/docs/DayUseEntranceFees.pdf