The FL backwaters trip has been happening for 30+ years and is always a favorite. This year, we are headed to the FL Panhandle, south of Tallahassee in the Wakulla area.
Updates: Hurricane Micheal hit the area. The campground is up and running. Reports for the rivers look good. There are a few rivers that are wide and anything goes, on the smaller rivers there may be obstructions, so be prepared for portages. There may be a group that may venture further out to help do a clean-up of Hurricane damage, such as logs and such.
Here is the basic plan:
- Dates: December 27th through January 1st.
-- Meet up at campground evening of Dec 27th-If you guys want to get together and share heavy Hors D'ouevres, please do. Bring your own plate, glass, and eating utensils. Please do this for all meal gathers.
- Campground: Newport Campground, Hwy 98, Crawfordville, FL
-- Link: http://www.mywakulla.com/departments/parks/newport_campground.php
--The campground is full now, call Pat Carver at 423 304-6519 if you are interested in going. We may be able to double up on campsites. Hotels arrangements are on your own, possibly 8 miles away.
-- Rates for RV spots are $27 per night (Full H/U), $22 (Water/Elec), $11 (Primitive)
I've made several reservations in my name for tent camping, if you did not make reservation in your name for a campsite, please see me!!!!! If you've made reservations and they have your name you're good to check in. Hopefully you know who you are.
-- Beware: They only take cash or checks, no credit cards. Pay at the door when you arrive.
Rivers being planned:
- Wakulla River- https://floridadep.gov/sites/default/files/Wakulla_guide_0.pdf
Edward Ball State Park is not a river, but a great place to visit. It's the spring
head for the Wakulla River
-- St Marks River (couple different sections being looked at)
-- Econfina River
-- Wacissa River. https://floridadep.gov/sites/default/files/Wacissa_guide_0.pdf -
http://www.floridakayak.org/slave-canal
-- Aucilla River (Saturday paddle Class I/II)
** https://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/River/detail/id/3179/
Most any boat will work. If you plan to use your whitewater boat be prepared to get in and out of your boat for portages if necessary, and if using a sea kayak be sure you have good boat control for the narrower rivers. The Aucilla River, depending on water level could have a class I/II rapid. Something in the 10-12' range is best, but anything you can paddle competently is the correct answer.
--------Rails to Trails------BIKE TRAIL------Bring a bike-----
If you're interested in biking, St. Marks Wildlife refugee is a great place to ride, and the St. Marks Rails to trails is close by. https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/tallahassee-st-marks-historic-railroad-state-trail
If interested: Contact me, Pat Carver at patcarver1055@yahoo.com or 423 304-6519. Leave your name, phone number, and email. I will add you to the list and make sure updates are sent. Any specific questions, feel free to ask. I will be headed to Panama City before Christmas and internet and phone service can be sketchy. I will also be staying longer than January 1st if you possible may be interested exploring the area more. If you can't get a hold of me, Carolyn Rand should have the information.
