Author: Tommy Thompson
Two Unique SCUBA and Snorkeling Destinations in Levy County, Florida
Many of the springs in our Natural North Florida region are along our rivers (Santa Fe, Suwannee, Wakulla) and their flow of clean 72-degree Fahrenheit water feeds a “spring run” leading to those rivers. Some spring runs are short, like Convict Spring near Mayo or long, like the one that essentially makes up the Wakulla …
RV ALERT! Heading To Natural North Florida in 2021? Plan Ahead!
Jayco? Wanderlodge? Casita? What’s your RV? No matter your “ride”, you’ll find our Natural North Florida region perfect for outdoor living. But, be aware that some of our RV parks and campgrounds fill up quickly and often take reservations well in advance. That’s especially true of our Florida State Parks and at private campgrounds near …
LET’S GO FISHING ON FLORIDA’S BIG BEND! LESSON #2: SNOOK
Story by Capt. Tommy Thompson Until recently, there was nothing “common” about catching common snook (Centropomus undecimalis) on our Big Bend Gulf of Mexico coast. Historically (at least in my 70 years!) snook were pretty much limited by cooler water to the Gulf of Mexico south of Anclote Key in Tarpon Springs. But, in the …
LET’S GO FISHING ON FLORIDA’S BIG BEND! LESSON #1: COBIA
Story by Capt. Tommy Thompson Cobia, or ling, are a species of fish found both inshore and offshore in Florida. They’re terrific fishters and when the fight’s over they’re excellent table fare. 8iuccessful cobia hunters make a point of idling around every channel marker they encounter. Big tripod-style markers are few and far between, but …
Visit A Few Of North Florida’s Preserved Historic Homes and Villages–
In spite of its international reputation for beaches, big cities and amusement parks, Florida is largely, and historically, a rural state. Soon after the Revolutionary War, settlers moved into Florida, seeking cheap land and opportunity. By the time of the Civil War, settlements had popped up all over the state. Many were based around farming …
Art, Science and Culture–All A Part Of Gainesville’s Museum Offerings
Art, Science and Culture–All A Part Of Gainesville’s Museum Offerings There’s little argument against the fact that Gainesville is the “museum” capital of North Central Florida. Not only is the city historic, with roots into the 19th century, it’s a university town with lots of interest in science and art. ••• Gainesville’s world-class museums are …
2020 Bay Scallop Season Opens on Florida’s Big Bend, June 15
2020 Bay Scallop Season Opens on Florida’s Big Bend, June 15 The annual bay scallop harvest is the largest economic driver for our Natural North Florida/Big Bend Gulf counties. Snorkelers, hoping for a meal of these tasty mollusks travel from far and wide to take part in what many consider an “underwater Easter egg hunt”! …
Coming Soon! Best Western Premier Hotel in Fanning Springs, Florida
The town of Fanning Springs is located in Gilchrist County, at the junction of SR26 and US19/98, and on the banks of the mighty Suwannee River. Located here, with its namesake State Park, Fanning Springs State Park, it’s the logical place to begin your explanation of the Natural North Florida Region. The 95-room Best Western …
Take A Virtual Florida Vacation To Gilchrist County’s Spring-Fed Swimming Holes
Now, while travel (local, regional, national and international) has slowed, it’s the perfect time to get out the maps, and take a “virtual vacation” to Natural North Florida. We’ve got plenty to see, and hope to see you (at a safe social distance!) once time get better. There are bigger springs along the Suwannee River …
Take A Virtual Vacation to Wonderful Wakulla County, Florida—An Outdoor Paradise
Take A Break and Take a Virtual Vacation in Natural North Florida Spring 2020 has brought a sllowdown to Florida tourism, and tourism worldwide.. Our Visit Natural North Florida region has slowed, too, and with the restrictions of social distancing and travel we’re all dreaming of better times to come. And we hope that potential …