Passidomo said in a statement to the Florida Phoenix that the state has worked to improve outdoor activities, such as biking and hiking, not hotels and golf courses.

“Our vision did not contemplate the addition of golf courses and hotels, which in my view are not in line with the peaceful and quiet enjoyment of nature,” she said. “I am open to other ideas, but from what I know at this time, the proposal should not move forward in its current form.”

The DeSantis administration portrays the proposed changes as an attempt to make the parks more accessible. Jeremy Redfern, the governor’s press secretary wrote in a statement that the plans aren’t final.

“The agency’s initial recommendations are based on public input and proposals — from pickleball to golf to additional bike trails and camping access; the proposals vary and may not all be approved. Finally, recommendations will be evaluated, and no final decisions will be made until the public comment and review process has been completed,” he wrote.

Panhandle Sen. Jay Trumbull, who chairs the Committee on Commerce and Tourism, took to X to express his “strong opposition” on Thursday, writing that the state should not try to compete with private businesses.

“Our state parks are a treasure and they should remain focused on their primary mission: offering a refuge for those who seek to experience Florida’s natural beauty in its purest form,” he wrote. “I urge my fellow lawmakers and citizens to join me in protecting these parks from unnecessary development and ensuring that our natural heritage is preserved for all to enjoy.”

Three of the nine state parks targeted in the expansion — Camp Helen, Topsail Hill Preserve, and Grayton Beach — fall within his district.

Cabinet dissent

Two of his cabinet members, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, shared their concerns with building infrastructure in state parks, according to Florida Politics.

“Public lands should be enjoyed and protected. We have to be really careful when we talk about building infrastructure in state parks,” Simpson told Florida Politics. He also posted the comment on X. The news organization also quoted Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis warning against starting down a “slippery slope.”

“The current state parks have established designation, design, followings for their theme or characteristics,” Patronis said.

House Speaker Paul Renner and Speaker-elect Danny Perez did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

This story has been updated to include comment from Kathleen Passidomo and the governor’s office.