Outdoors and Nature
Our Outdoor and Nature experts, Sandra Friend and John Keatley, travel around the region exploring the fabulous springs, rivers, trails, and hidden treasures that make up our ten county Natural North Florida region.
Spotted in Steinhatchee
You never know what a day in Steinhatchee will show you, from pirate-inspired fashion to a choice waterfront hangout or a new place to enjoy the invariably gorgeous Steinhatchee sunset. Here’s a sampling of the sights and sounds (and, in a subsequent post, tastes) of a day in this serene and surprising Gulf Coast town. …
Video on Paddle Florida!
Check out this video to find out more about Paddle Florida’s amazing trips: http://alachua.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=8&clip_id=1635
San Marcos de Apalache: A Peaceful Spot with a Turbulent History
This park doesn’t look like much from outside: In fact, you could walk right past it without ever realizing the fascinating, turbulent, globe-sweeping history it contains. But step inside San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park in St. Marks, and you’re swept up in a story that begins in 1528. That’s when Panfilo de Narvaez …
O’Leno State Park: Hiking, Camping, Biking and more!
O’Leno State Park is located on the Santa Fe river, and was one of Florida’s first state parks. O’Leno was constructed in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and much of their work can still be seen around the park, including a recreation hall, and a suspension bridge that crosses the Santa Fe river. O’Leno offers many activities …
Shell Island Fish Camp in St. Marks: Not Just for Fishermen
For me, fishing is mainly an excuse to be around boats and water. Catching something is almost irrelevant. Nevertheless, I love staying at Shell Island Fish Camp when I visit St. Marks. You can’t beat toddling down to the marina’s store for a cup of coffee and enjoying it on the docks as the sun …
Get Outdoors Florida! Targets ‘Nature Deficit Disorder’–We’ve Got the Cure!
Come to Natural North Florida and get cured of ‘Nature Deficit Disorder’. The Get Outdoors Florida! coalition is an union of public and private partners that include federal and state land managers; state conservation, health, and education agencies; educators; healthcare providers; non-profits, and businesses. These groups realize an imperative need to reconnect communities, families and …
Plant Spotlight: Cabbage Palm
The cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto) is Florida’s state tree, and is also one of the most easily recognizable trees. It can be found nearly everywhere in Florida and is commonly used in landscaping. Cabbage palms are easily identified by the shape and size of their leaves. The leaf of a cabbage palm is very broad …
Fanning Springs Voted one of Florida’s Top Parks for 2010
Located on the Suwannee river, Fanning Springs is one of North Florida’s many first magnitude springs and is one of the most popular parks in Florida. Voted number 18 of the top 25 Florida state parks, Fanning Springs offers many activities including swimming, canoeing, camping, hiking and biking. Camping is available in both cabins and …
Fossilized Florida: A Guide to Finding Fossils in Florida’s Creeks
In North Florida, you’re never far from a fresh water creek. This is a lucky thing for those interested in archaeology and paleontology, as these creeks are some of the best places to find fossils, most notably shark teeth, ray teeth, and other bits and pieces of the fossil record. Florida is a great place to find these fossils due to …
Join the Star Party at Cedar Key
Cedar Key’s annual astronomy event January 31-February 4 welcomes the public to scan the skies of the Gulfside town, where the lack of light pollution creates a star-gazer’s paradise. Volunteer astronomers will host free stargazing events at the Cedar Key Museum State Park on January 31 and February 4 with a slide show at 7 …