I Heart Wakulla Springs State Park II

On our Saturday morning cruise, Luke kept backing up the boat so we could get a better look at some bird or snake. And his commentary was this truly unique, repetitive patter like nothing I’ve ever heard before. As we were approaching the dock, he sang us happy birthday. The wildlife we saw was incredible. I guess since the only boat traffic since the 30s has been the park boats, the wild creatures take the boats in stride. The number and variety of birds were incredible.

Saturday morning around 6:30 when I stepped outside to smoke, I saw what looked like a turkey. It turned out there were a pair of them. And they were just hanging out in a grassy area near a parking lot. Vultures were everywhere in the a.m. The glass bottom boats don’t run very often because the water at the springs isn’t usually clear enough to see to the bottom. We did get to ride in one Saturday a.m., though, because they had specially scheduled trips for International Literacy Day. We actually drifted around above the springs while a guy read us a Cat in the Hat book.

So, there’s the swimming, the boats, the woods and the natural beauty. Mom said it felt like being in another world. It is just such a peaceful, enchanting place. Everyone there was quite friendly. I could see spending two nights to soak it all in and really relax but as for a variety of activities, it ain’t Disneyworld. Thank God. The restaurant serves good food and everyone working there seems to be related. There’s a gift shop that has a snack bar with hot dogs, nachos and ice cream. The restaurant food was good, especially since the dining room is so charming. They do serve beer and wine but park signs indicate intoxicants are not allowed. There’s nothing else around the park. No t-shirt shops or fast food places or mini-golf courses. Once you’re there, you’re there.

This place is very special. Given what Destin and other parts of Florida have turned into, Wakulla Springs is pristine and untouched. It is old Florida at its best.

I heart Wakulla Springs State Park.

You can learn more at this Wakulla County Web page.