Plan a Field Trip

Schools, nonprofits, and community organizations can elevate their group outings by booking field trips to our local Conservation Parks and Nature Preserves. These visits offer a dynamic blend of active recreation and leisure exploration. Group activities can be customized to include guided educational programming, scenic hiking, playground access, canoeing, kayaking, and organized picnics.

Things to consider

Booking Guidelines & General Considerations

• Application Timeline:
• Field trip applications must be submitted at least 30 days prior to the requested event date.

Advance Booking Window:

Applications for the upcoming calendar year cannot be accepted or processed until after October 1st of the current year.

• Review Window:
• The application process takes a minimum of 10 business days, starting the day after submission (excluding weekends and holidays).

• Processing Priority:
• Applications are processed strictly on a first-come, first-served basis. We are unable to accommodate requests for expedited processing.

• Fee Notification:
• Upon completion of the application review, your group will be notified of any applicable fees, including site entrance and facility rental costs. All fees must be paid seven days prior to the scheduled field trip date.

• Insurance Requirements:
• Depending on the nature and scope of the event, the Safety & Risk Management department may require a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and a corresponding endorsement page.

• Post-Event Clean-Up:
• Groups are responsible for cleaning all utilized facilities, clearing any litter or obstructions, and returning the area to its original layout prior to departure. Failure to leave the property in its original condition may result in hourly staffing and maintenance charges.

Fees

Standard Vehicle Entrance Fees

Entry to our Conservation Parks requires a mandatory vehicle entrance fee, structured as follows:

• Standard Vehicle Entry: $2.00 per vehicle (covers up to 8 persons). $1.00 for each individual exceeding the 8-passenger limit.

Optional Amenity & Activity Fees:

Base entry fees do not include specialized activities or equipment. Additional charges will apply for the utilization of optional amenities, including:

• Facility rentals (e.g., picnic shelters, pavilions)
• Staff-led interpretive programming or coordinated group activities
• Watercraft and gear rentals (canoes, kayaks, etc.)

How to apply

Fill out the field trip application form online

What happens next

A member of our staff will contact you about details for your field trip.

Get help

Department: Conservation & Environmental Lands Management
Email: CELM-SpecialEventsAdmin@hcfl.gov