Starting March 12, Wekiwa Springs State Park in Florida will require reservations for day-use entry as part of a pilot program aimed at reducing traffic congestion and long wait times. 

According to the announcement, the new system, which runs through September 1, applies to all visitors, including annual passholders. Reservations can be made beginning March 10, and may be booked up to 60 days in advance.

The Florida Park Service introduced this initiative in response to long entry lines that often extended onto Wekiwa Springs Road, creating significant delays and disruptions. 

By shifting to an online reservation model, officials hope to streamline park access while maintaining visitor capacity limits. 

The park entry fee will be collected online at the time of booking, with no additional charge for making a reservation.

Visitors must present proof of their reservation, either digitally or in print, upon arrival. Annual passholders must also show their pass. 

Those with camping reservations or concessions bookings will still be allowed entry without an additional day-use reservation. 

Reentry during the same day is permitted only if visitors request a reentry ticket before exiting.

The Florida Park Service will assess the program’s success at Wekiwa Springs State Park before considering its continuation or expansion. 

Feedback on the initiative can be submitted via email to ReservationPilotProgram@FloridaDEP.gov. 

This pilot program is expected to improve the visitor experience while ensuring the park remains accessible and well-managed for outdoor enthusiasts.