How to Become a Park Ranger in Florida

Florida is home to many different environments, not just the swamps we have come to think of when the state is mentioned.

The rangers who work in the state parks in Florida are among some of the best.

If you would like to know more about one of the best careers there is for working outdoors and protecting our natural lands, continue reading to explore what it takes to be a park ranger in Florida.

Requirements for Becoming a Park Ranger in Florida

To become a park ranger in Florida, you will need to have at least a GED or a high school diploma.

A higher degree is not necessary, but having one in natural resource management, park administration, or wildlife science can give you a step up when in the hiring process.

You will need to be 21 years of age, have a driver’s license, and be able to pass both a drug screening and a background check.

You will also need to complete the two-week-long Ranger Academy.

Other skills you will need to have are a knowledge of first aid and CPR, boat safety skills, and experience in conservation or park maintenance.

Volunteer experience and internships are welcome additions.

What Does a Park Ranger in Florida Do?

The duties of a park ranger in Florida vary depending on which park the ranger works at.

In general, most rangers will conduct tours, care for nature, compile data on plant and wildlife, help injured or missing visitors, perform firefighting responsibilities when needed, and educate visitors.

State Parks in Florida

Myakka River State Park

This park, located in Sarasota, Florida,  is home to the state’s first designated wild and scenic river.

Visitors enjoy walking the Birdwalk for a view of the many forms of wildlife that are abundant here.

They are also home to a variety of birds.

Enjoyment can also be found walking the Walkway Canopy, which overlooks the prairie.

Other activities include boating, fishing, kayaking, and hiking.

Finally, visitors may want to join one of the boat or tram guided wildlife tours, both of which are ADA-friendly.

Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

This park is located in Homosassa, Florida.

This park is home to a variety of animals that would not be able to survive in their natural habitats.

Some of the animals you may meet are a red wolf, a manatee, whooping cranes, a black bear, and a bobcat.

There is a chance to go on an underwater walk to view sea animals.

This is one of the most unique state parks in the state.

Wekiwa Springs State Park near Apopka

Apopka, Florida, is the home to this state park that has a huge focus on water activities.

There is also a chance to see a variety of wild animals, including black bears.

Visitors can enjoy exploring the trails on foot, by bicycle, and horseback.

There is also canoeing, swimming, and mountain biking.

Like many campsites in Florida, some sites allow you to camp with your horse.

Florida Caverns State Park

The Florida Caverns State Park is located in Marianna, Florida.

While hiking, cycling, or horseback riding, visitors can view many natural wonders such as sinkholes, floodplains, and rivers.

Spend the night with your horse at a campsite and then take guided cave tours.

This is a place that is worth planning a few days to see everything that it has to offer.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Fort White, Florida, is home to the unique Ichetucknee Springs State Park.

This park has eight clear water springs that join together to form a river.

You can spend time on many water activities, from kayaking to swimming.

Many visitors come for the warm weather tubing.

They also enjoy exploring the 2669 acres full of thriving wildlife.

The two biggest draws, however, are snorkeling in a spring that never varies from 72 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you have training in diving, you are in for even more of a treat.

In this one spring, you can dive into what is called the Blue Hole and view the underwater cave system that starts at forty feet below the surface, and consists of over 600 feet of passages.

Schools Summary Table

	Rank	School
	#1	University of Florida
	#2	Florida Institute of Technology

Park Ranger Salary in Florida

The average salary of a park ranger in Florida is $47,970 a year.

This is actually on the higher end of the pay scale for park rangers.

Park rangers also get a wide variety of benefits, such as insurance, paid vacations, and retirement plans.

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Find Park Ranger Career Guides by State

Frequently Asked Questions

Do park rangers in Florida need to have a degree?

No, a degree isn’t necessary to be a park ranger in Florida, but it helps you stand out from the huge amount of competition for the jobs in various parks.

This is especially true of the more popular parks.

How much money does a Florida park ranger make each year?

The average salary of a park ranger in Florida is $47,970 a year, plus benefits.

 

How many state parks are there in Florida?

There are 175 state parks in Florida.

They encompass over 815,000 acres and 101 miles of beaches.

What is the largest state park in Florida?

The largest state park in Florida is Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park.

This park is home to the rare ghost orchid and boasts over 77,000 acres.

What does it mean when they say a Florida park ranger works in "the big five"?

This statement means that state park rangers are expected to do duties in five areas — maintenance, administration, visitor services, protection, and resource management.