DEP to Run Rish Park

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will take over the operation of William J. Rish Recreational Park on Cape San Blas beginning December 1, 2021. DEP is well positioned to care for and manage Rish Park. DEP operates the Florida Park Service which includes 175 state parks, trails, and historic sites. Rish Park and its visitors will certainly benefit from DEP’s management.

APD will continue to employ staff at the park to assist DEP with the transition plan and operational goals until June 30, 2021. Rish Park is currently closed for renovations and repairs and will reopen as soon as it is safe to do so. The park is not currently taking reservations or open for public tours.

The park remains, and will continue to remain, exclusively for the benefit and use of individuals with disabilities. DEP will be providing additional information regarding their reservation process and park rates once they take over park operations in December.