Florida State Parks Announces Winners of 2025 Photo Contest
In a celebration of the natural beauty and history that Florida’s state parks offer, the winners of the 2025 Capture the Real Florida Photo Contest have been revealed. This year’s competition highlighted the diverse landscapes and wildlife that define the state’s parks, drawing thousands of entries from photographers across Florida.
Heather Bossowski’s “A Camp Sunrise at Gamble Rogers” captures a scenic sunrise at Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area, winning the Grand Prize in the Park Adventures category.
The competition included five categories: Landscapes, Waterscapes, Wildlife, Park Adventures, and Historic Encounters, the latter added in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. Each category awarded a Grand Prize, Runner-Up, and People’s Choice Award.
“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.”
- Wildlife: Michelle Huguet’s photo “Eyes of the Forest” was taken at Myakka River State Park in Sarasota.
The winning photographs, including Grand Prize winners, are displayed on the Photo Contest webpage. Prizes for Grand Prize winners included a $1,000 B&H Photo gift card, a Florida State Parks Annual Pass, a stand-up paddleboard, and a hammock.
Additionally, the winning images will be featured at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park during the Winter Waterland celebration starting this month.
Florida’s state parks, known for their iconic wildlife and unique ecosystems, provide photographers with endless opportunities. Tyler Technologies, which oversees the reservation system for park accommodations, supports the contest. Photographers can begin capturing images on January 1, 2026, with the contest portal opening in November 2026. Participants are encouraged to share their vision of …the Real Florida.
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Valleri Ames’ “Echoes of Bulow Plantation,” taken at Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park, secured the Grand Prize in the Historic Encounters category.
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