In the Wild

             Weeki Wachee River

 

 

Withlacootchie State Forest and Weeki Wachee River are part of my Florida adventure today. Camping in Florida is best done October through May. It is in the late eighties here now which bodes well for a day in the water and in the sixties at night which makes it ideal sleeping in a tent. 

Our campsite is on the Big Withlacoochee River in the Crooked River section. It is 8 dollars a night. It takes no reservations and if you have ever camped in Florida right now most state parks are full. This site is a great last minute camping pick. There is potable water and there are also real restrooms. The sites are spacious.  The Florida Trail hooks up here for those interested in hiking. A biking traill starts here as well. You can kayak the tannic river.  You could spend your time exploring all the activities available in this state forest. Thirty minutes away, however, is one of my favorites parts of Florida, a natural spring,   Weeki Wachee.

You could spend the day at the park, but for those more adventurous, your day is week spent on the Weekei Wachi River where you can kayak and snorkel down the crystal clear white sandy bottomed riverbed. Deep blue bends and shallow sandy areas make this a fun space to explore for kids, teens, and adults. The almost 6 mile paddle is a good four hours. If you want to rent a kayak, be sure to reserve and come early.  Although it seems that hundreds of people are trying to get into the water via the ramp, you will quickly find solitude on the water under the live oaks and stands of cypress. You will find peace and real Florida wild. It might also go down as your favorite days in Florida as it did for me.