Florida State Parks has announced the winners of its 2025 Capture the Real Florida Photo Contest, highlighting images that showcase the state’s natural and historical sites. The contest recognized a Grand Prize, Runner-Up, and People’s Choice Award in five categories: Landscapes, Waterscapes, Wildlife, Park Adventures, and Historic Encounters—a new category introduced for America’s 250th anniversary.
Thousands of entries were submitted from across Florida. The winning photographs depict various aspects of the state’s parks and wildlife. Shane Carrol won the Landscapes category with “Not Alone,” taken at Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park in Sanderson. Dawn Campbell received the Waterscapes award for “Early Dawn” at Silver Springs State Park in Ocala. Michelle Huguet was recognized in the Wildlife category for “Eyes of the Forest” at Myakka River State Park in Sarasota. Heather Bossowski earned the Grand Prize in Park Adventures with “A Camp Sunrise at Gamble Rogers,” photographed at Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area in Flagler Beach. Valleri Ames won Historic Encounters with “Echoes of Bulow Plantation” at Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park in Ormond Beach.
“Every year, our visitors capture breathtaking moments that remind us why our state parks are among the most treasured places in the country,” said Chuck Hatcher, Director of Florida State Parks. “Thank you to everyone who shared their images. I invite all Floridians to get out and discover our state parks and maybe even grab that perfect shot.”
All winning photos can be viewed on the Photo Contest webpage. Each Grand Prize winner received a $1,000 B&H Photo gift card, a Florida State Parks Annual Pass, a stand-up paddleboard, and a hammock.
The winning photographs will also be displayed at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park during its Winter Waterland celebration this month.
Florida’s network includes 175 state parks, trails, and historic sites covering more than 815,000 acres with over 101 miles of beaches and more than 3,024 miles of multi-use trails. These locations offer opportunities for recreation and photography for people of all ages and skill levels. The photo contest is organized with Tyler Technologies, which manages reservations for overnight stays at Florida’s state parks.
Photographers interested in participating next year can begin capturing park moments starting January 1, 2026. The submission portal will open in November 2026.
The Florida Park Service has been awarded four National Gold Medals for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management by national organizations since 1999.
For additional details about Florida’s state parks or to view contest information online, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org or see https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLDEP/bulletins/3fe6d71.
