fla-gypsy wrote:
soren wrote:
fla-gypsy wrote:
Well accept you totally ignored the fact that St Andrews draws many more visitors each year and is only 30+ miles away and is allowed to fall into disrepair while Topsail spends millions each year on "improvements" like a new sign, entrance, etc. Having spent time the last few years at many state parks in Florida it is quite obvious some connected politician is influential in how state park infrastructure money is dolled out to their favorite park.
Sorry, but I'm not buying it. I have stayed there recently, and spent a decades long career as a contractor. I'm well aware of what "spending millions" looks like, having done it many times. The park is fairly well maintained, but in now way are there any signs of extravagance, particularly millions of dollars wasted.
finally, I did indeed ignore your issue with St. Andrews, and the condition of a hundred other facilities in the system, since it has nothing to do with this conversation.
You have a serious chip on your shoulder, and firmly believe that money is being wasted on a profitable, and popular park. I'm sure all the information that you base your "beliefs" on is a matter of public record. Why not dig up the facts and post them? Might take a while, since your search for the "wasted millions at Topsail"" might be a long one.
You ignored it because you have no answer and as a lifelong resident of the state I do indeed know what I am saying and have frequented more state parks in Florida than the average citizen or visitor. The inequity is quite clear.
fla-gypsy, I have noticed over time that your comments about Topsail have been unfavorable. If I remember correctly, I think you kind of mentioned that you don't care for it because it's not what you consider a true state park with it's amenities. Maybe I am thinking of someone else, but I think it was you.
St Andrews has nearly 40 more campsites than Topsail. St Andrews is also $14/night cheaper. Take into consideration the boat ramp, pier and proximity to Panama City Beach in comparison of Topsail to Destin, then there is a reason St Andrews gets more visitors. But, as someone who is 600 miles away, whenever I make reservations for Topsail, I have slim pickings. We were there last year for my daughters spring break in April (end of April). I made reservations in November prior to it. There were only about 3 or 4 sites available, but not for the whole week. We ended up having to break it up between there and Grayton. We did not want to be at St Andrews. But St Andrews had plenty of spaces open as I remember. So when you look at visitors for the park, they are not breaking it down for campers. Thats only people who come into the park. Topsail has way nicer sites. Paved, landscaping, pool, and many other amenities that St Andrew does not. Upkeep of it is gonna cost more at Topsail and more than likely why they charge more.
