If you're planning to visit a Florida State Park, be prepared to pay more. In an effort to keep from shutting down some of the sites, park fees went up July 1st.

As NewsChannel 7’s Whitney Ray tells us, the price is up, but that hasn't changed the plans of thousands of Floridians who will hike, swim, and camp at Florida’s 160 state parks this weekend.

The Laudermilch family is visiting 10 state parks over the holiday weekend.

"You get to see what nature is really like,” said Von Laudermilch. “The kids become interested in nature and preserving it and seeing what God has created for us."

And at Wakulla Springs State Park, there's plenty to see.

"If you look to you're left you'll see an alligator."

Jeffery Laudermilch is touring Wakulla Springs and he tells NewsChannel 7, "Seeing all the wildlife, in general is pretty fun."

Viewing Florida’s natural beauty at the state's hottest sites just got more expensive.

The price of admissions at Florida’s state parks is up. Entry per car increased between one and three dollars depending on the park. Camping will cost an extra four bucks.

"Even though the price has gone up, you wouldn't know it by the crowd here at Wakulla Springs."

Jennifer Darnell paid $6 to bring three kids to the park.

"Six dollars is a bargain when it keeps them occupied,” said Darnell. “I can stay out here for hours with them and it keeps them busy."

The increase will help the state park system keep all of its sites open.

"During this year's legislative session we had a few budget cutting exercises,” said Florida Park Service, Jessica Kemper. “One of them included the temporary closure of 19 state parks.”

Last year 20 million people visited Florida’s state parks. The price hike isn't expected to curb attendance.

Fore more information about the Fees, visit the link below.