Official State Park Photo Contest

You wouldn't be singing Itsy-Bitsy Spider if you came across this spider in the woods — it was as big as my hand. My daughter spied the colorful specimen last month on the River Rapids Trail at Hillsborough River State Park. Had she been able to get a closer picture of the arachnid, it might have made an interesting entry in the 2008 Florida State Park Photo Contest. The contest, open to photographers 13 years of age or older, is a chance for the public to showcase their skills behind the camera and a way for the state to promote Florida's award-winning state parks. Monthly contest winners are awarded the Florida State Parks... the Real Florida Passport, and will be entered into the annual contest. The annual photo contest winner will enjoy a two-night stay at a cabin in any Florida State Park of their choice that offers cabin accommodations.

Photographers have to register in advance and follow contest rules.

If you've been following my summer state park series, you know just how many photo opportunities abound in Florida's state parks — I've taken hundreds of photos over the summer of some of the state parks we've visited. While my photos may never win any awards, it has been fun to share my experiences with all of you. If you've missed some of the series, catch up on the photos by taking the links below:

• Caladesi Island State Park
• Fort Clinch
• Gamble Plantation Historic State Park
• Hillsborough River State Park
• Honeymoon Island State Park
• Skyway Fishing Pier State Park
• Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center
• Ybor City Museum State Park

^{Photo © Beth Hunt}