How Florida House Bill 109 May Help Residents Score State Park Reservations 

On May 11, 2023, House Bill (HB) 109, titled “State Park Campsite Reservations,” was approved in Florida. This new law will now allow Florida residents to reserve campsites (including RV, tent, boat, and equestrian sites) at state parks 11 months before their reservation date, while non-residents can reserve at 10 months. 

Why is HB 109 Helpful?

Taking effect Jan 1, 2024, HB 109 is meant to help Florida residents have a bit of a leg up in making camping reservations at state parks. Currently, the state parks reservation system allows for everyone to make reservations up to 11 months in advance online or by phone. New dates become available for booking each day at 8:00 a.m., and new camping sites that become available throughout the day because of cancellations are released randomly back into inventory following the cancellation.

According to the summary analysis of the bill, more than 32 million people visited Florida state parks during Fiscal Year 2021-2022, and 61 percent of all overnight visitors, on average, were Florida residents. Unfortunately, it can be challenging to secure reservations at Florida state parks, especially during peak season and when third parties can book sites. One massive concern that has affected the camping industry, in general, is the lack of available campsites and the growing issue of “no-show campers,” who book multiple reservations at several different campgrounds, but choose one, leaving the other spots reserved but empty, even after cancellations. Lakeland Republican Rep. Jennifer Canady testified in favor of the bill, emphasizing the difficulty of obtaining camping reservations. She also noted the importance of experiencing Florida’s natural beauty and ecosystems.

Giving residents access to make reservations one full month before non-residents will make it easier for them to enjoy Florida’s beauty and camp in the state’s 57 parks, 52 of which have amenities specifically for RV campers. 

What is Required to Make a Reservation?

Florida residents seeking early access to reservations will need to provide a valid Florida driver’s license number or Florida ID card number at the time of booking, as proof of residency. Residents must also present the same identification while checking in at the campsite.

Do you think HB 109 will help Florida residents enjoy RV camping in our state parks more? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments or contact us today!