Florida State Parks has announced the winners of its 2025 Capture the Real Florida Photo Contest, highlighting images that showcase the state’s landscapes, wildlife, and historic sites. The contest recognized a Grand Prize, Runner-Up, and People’s Choice Award in five categories: Landscapes, Waterscapes, Wildlife, Park Adventures, and Historic Encounters.
This year’s Park Adventures Grand Prize went to Heather Bossowski for “A Camp Sunrise at Gamble Rogers,” featuring a sunrise at Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area in Flagler Beach. Other Grand Prize winners include Shane Carrol for “Not Alone” at Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park (Landscapes), Dawn Campbell for “Early Dawn” at Silver Springs State Park (Waterscapes), Michelle Huguet for “Eyes of the Forest” at Myakka River State Park (Wildlife), and Valleri Ames for “Echoes of Bulow Plantation” at Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park (Historic Encounters).
The Historic Encounters category was introduced this year to mark America’s 250th anniversary.
“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.”
Grand Prize winners received a $1,000 B&H Photo gift card, a Florida State Parks Annual Pass, a stand-up paddleboard, and a hammock. All winning photos can be viewed on the contest’s official webpage.
The winning entries will also be displayed at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park during its Winter Waterland celebration.
Florida’s network includes 175 state parks, trails, and historic sites that provide opportunities for photographers of all skill levels. The contest is presented with Tyler Technologies, which supplies reservation services for overnight stays in Florida’s state parks.
Photographers interested in next year’s competition can begin taking photos starting January 1, 2026. The submission portal opens in November 2026.
“I invite all Floridians to get out and discover our state parks and maybe even grab that perfect shot,” Hatcher added.
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