Firearms in State Parks

[LZHome]

While camping this weekend at Henderson State Park (Destin) my wifes bike was stolen. Her and my daughter took a early moring bike ride to the beach and while walking on the beach her bike was taken. She didn't see it happen but she called me immediately on her cell phone.

I ran out of the motorhome and got in the truck determined to track that bike theif. I made a quick decision NOT to take my CCW firearm with me; a bike is not worth a life of course.

Within a 1/2 mile I passed the guy on the bike; spun the truck around and pulled in front of the thief. He quickly got off the bike and backed away with no show of vilance. I put the fear of God in him and let him walk away because I didn't want to make physical contact with him since he did back away from the situation.

The County Sherriff and Park Ranger responded but the guy was never located--however I got the bike back AND learned some interesting tid bits from the Park Ranger.

He stated that firearms are now allowed in vehicles and RVs within Florida State Parks but he didn't "think" they were allowed as CCW. He was a little confused about the "new" laws on firearms in State Parks.

On Edit: I've learned that CCW is now permited in Fl State Parks.

[richhermes]

Awesome. Good to hear you got the bike back!

[rich52us]

Glad to hear about the good outcome. Yes CCWs are now allowed in Fl State Parks.

I feel it's better to have my ccw with me and not need it, than need it and not have it. Fortunately, the bike thief was not armed and not violent. In FL or anywhere, it could have been different. Again, glad it turned out well.

[Usingmyrights]

They changed the law earlier this year that allows you to carry in a SP. I'm still trying to figure out the WMAs and national forrests.

[CTW]

Glad you got your bike back without any violence. I would have carried also better to have and not need, than need and not have.

[packinaglock]

They changed the law earlier this year that allows you to carry in a SP. I'm still trying to figure out the WMAs and national forrests.
I have read 2 brocures from WMA's near me and both say if you have your permit you are legal to carry