Florida's state parks are already some of the most celebrated in the country, and now there's an extra reason to lace up your hiking boots: in honor of America's 250th birthday, visitors can explore the best state parks in the nation at no charge.

The free admission opportunity ties directly to the country's semiquincentennial, a milestone that's prompting celebrations and special access across public lands nationwide — Florida's included.

Whether you're drawn to old-growth forests, spring-fed swimming holes, or miles of unspoiled coastline, the Sunshine State's park system offers something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast, and this moment is a rare chance to experience it without paying an entry fee.

If you've been putting off that state park visit, this anniversary is as good a nudge as any to finally go — and bring the whole family along for a piece of living history.

This story was reported by Florida Politics.