Tag: FLORIDA

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Florida Florida State Parks National Forest Springs State Parks United States

5 Springs in Ocala National Forest

Salt Springs in Ocala National Forest
Salt Springs in Ocala National Forest

The springs in Ocala National Forest are some of the most stunning scenery you’ll find in the Sunshine State.  Most people that vacation in Florida head to the beaches or the theme parks…us Floridians, on the other hand, head straight for the springs!  There are more than 1,000 natural springs sprinkled throughout Florida- more than any other place on the planet!  The springs stay a refreshing 72 degrees Fahrenheit year round, making them a great place to beat the heat.

There are five springs in the Ocala National Forest that are accessible to visitors.  These springs are: Alexander Springs, Fern Hammock Springs, Juniper Springs,  Salt Springs, and Silver Glen Springs.  Join us as we explore the springs in Ocala National Forest and explore the real Florida!

Alexander Springs in Ocala National Forest

5 Springs in Ocala National Forest

Alexander Springs

Alexander Springs is one of the best springs for snorkeling and diving.  The swimming area is a huge, wide open space and there are parts that are shallow enough for little ones to enjoy. There are steps that lead down to the spring.  This is a great spot for little ones to get acclimated to the temperature of the water.  Once you’re in the water, it isn’t exceptionally deep (but still deep enough that they can swim). 

The kayak and paddleboard launch site is also very close to the swimming hole, making it easy to go back and forth between the two.

The swimming area isn’t all shallow, however.  In fact, local dive schools use the springs for training since parts of the spring are as deep as 25 feet.

Alexander Springs is also known for camping, hiking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.  There is a 0.9 mile interpretive trail called the Timucuan Trail.  The loop consists of a shady boardwalk that travels through the forest along the spring run.   

Fern Hammock Springs

Fern Hammock Springs are accessible from Juniper Springs.  Unlike the other springs in the Ocala National Forest, swimming isn’t permitted here. This spring is environmentally protected and has a higher alligator and snake population.  It’s still absolutely worth the short walk from Juniper Springs.  Fern Hammock Springs is absolutely stunning and considered by many to be one of the most beautiful springs in the world!

Juniper Springs in Ocala National Forest

Juniper Springs

An old watermill constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s helps make this one of the most picturesque springs in the area.  The springs are popular for swimming, snorkeling, floating, camping, hiking, and paddling.  

Juniper Run is a narrow, winding waterway that travels through a dense canopy of an ancient forest.  It is an excellent spot to paddle out in search for turtles, fish, birds, and alligators.

Salt Springs

Salt Springs is another excellent swimming hole found in the Ocala National Forest.  The swimming area is massive and the parts away from the spring head are shallow enough for wading.  The water near the boils, however, are deep and full of slippery rocks.

Salt Springs is unique in the sense that it is salty and is home to an abundance of blue crabs.  The water is naturally salty due to the high levels of magnesium and potassium- but not nearly as salty as ocean water.   

Silver Glen Springs in Ocala National Forest

Silver Glen Springs

Silver Glen Springs is one of many Floridian’s favorite springs!  The water is crystal clear and the swimming area is massive.  Historians believe that this site has been popular with humans for over 10,000 years!  It was once the home to an ancient village.  Today, it is home to Florida black bears, racoons, an abundance of fish and birds, turtles, and manatees.

Silver Glen Springs is popular for swimming, snorkeling, floating, and paddling.

When is the Best time to Visit? 

The springs are phenomenal year round!  If you want a glimpse of the manatees, come during the winter (January and February seem to be peak times).  If you want to kayak, canoe, or paddle board you can do so year round, but you’ll find it less crowded in the cooler months. 

If you’re brave, you can swim year round.  The water temperature is the same all year.  Florida’s weather is really inconsistent in the winter.  We can go from being in the 80s one day to the 50s the next.  As long as you can handle the outside temperatures when you exit the springs, you can absolutely swim in the springs 365 days a year.

Our Spring Essentials

Floats and Rafts

SportsStuff Noodler 2
River Run Inflatable American Flag 2 Person Tube Float with Cooler
Giant Flamingo Float
Giant Unicorn Float

More Fun Stuff!

Inflatable Kayak
Inflatable Paddleboard (I swear by this one!)
Full-Face Snorkel Mask

Safety

Puddle Jumper Vest
Swim Vest
First Aid Kit

Skin Care & Insect Repellent

Coppertone Kids Sunscreen
OFF! Family Care Insect Spray
Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

Towels & Swim Suits

Toddler Striped Hooded Poncho Towels
Women’s Boardshorts
Women’s 50+ SPF Shirt
Girl’s Roxy Rashguard

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**Please note that this post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience. All opinions are my own. Pinkie swear**

Categories
Florida Jacksonville United States

10 Free Things to do in Jacksonville, Florida

The kids and LB at the Jacksonville Arboretum.

Jacksonville, Florida has started popping up more on the vacation destination radar.  The River City has great weather year-round making it the ideal destination for outdoor family fun.  Our list of Free Things to do in Jacksonville offers a wide variety of family-friendly activities for you to enjoy.  

Free Things to do in Jacksonville, Florida

Enjoying a picnic on American Beach

1. Hit the Beach

It wouldn’t be a proper trip to Florida without a visit to the beach.  Our family loves spending the day frolicking in the waves and digging our toes in the sand.  Jacksonville has 22 miles of beaches for you to explore!  Grab some sunscreen and a towel and head out to Jacksonville Beach for a day.

Pro-Tip:  Be sure to check out the newly rebuilt Jacksonville Beach Pier!

2. Visit the Riverside Arts Market

The Riverside Arts Market is held every Saturday alongside the St. Johns River.  Here you’ll find fresh produce, food trucks, local artisans, and musicians.  It’s a great way to spend the morning!

While you’re in the area, be sure to stop by The Cummer Art Gallery, Memorial Park or Riverside Park.

Pro-Tip:  The Cummer Art Gallery has free admission on the first Saturday of each month.

3. Hit Up the Art Walks

While we’re on the subject of the arts, you should check out our art walks!  The Downtown Art Walk takes place on the first Wednesday of the month.  It includes over 40 open galleries for you to peruse.  The Museum of Contemporary Art also offers free admission on this night.

On the second Tuesday of each month, Jacksonville Beach also hosts an art walk.  

Both events go from 5 – 9 PM.  

4. The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

The Timucuan Preserve protects salt marshes, coastal dunes, and hardwood hammocks and the 6,000 years of human history of this area.  The 46,000-acre preserve includes miles and miles of hiking trails that travel through diverse ecosystems.  

The park encompasses Kingsley Plantation (below), Fort Caroline (below), American Beach (which provide African Americans beach access during segregation),  Cedar Point, Theodore Roosevelt Area, and more.

Kingsley Plantation from the waterfront.

5. Explore Kingsley Plantation

Kingsley Plantation is the oldest plantation home in Florida.  t was once the home to Zephaniah Kingsley, a slaver who established plantations between South Carolina and Spanish Florida. The home is maintained by the National Park system as part of the Timucuan Preserve. It is a great place for visitors to stop in and learn about our nation’s dark past.

The site features 25 of the remaining 32 slave quarters, the main house, a barn, and a dock.  There is plenty of signage throughout the site that tells the story of the people that once lived and worked here.  Access to the main home is limited in order to help preserve the home.  However, the ruins of the slave quarters are available to tour.

Firing Cannons at Fort Caroline National Memorial

6. Fort Caroline

Fort Caroline is known as the Atlantis of Florida because nobody knows where its actual location truly was.  When most people think about forts in northeast Florida, they picture the Spanish fortress Castillo de San Marcos or the Civil War era Fort Clinch. It is often forgotten that the French had a short tenure in the area before they were almost completely wiped out by the Spanish.

Pro-Tip:  Many of the top attractions in Jacksonville offer free admission to children during the month of November.

7. Spend Time at the Arboretum

The kids and LB at the Jacksonville Arboretum.

The Jacksonville Arboretum is a hidden gem.  So much so that we almost hate sharing it with you.  Seven easy to navigate trails surround a beautiful lake and wind through this 120-acre urban park.  The three miles of trails surround a beautiful lake filled with turtles, fish, and alligators.

Locks of Love Bridge- Northbank Riverwalk

8. The Riverwalk

The mighty St. Johns River runs right through downtown Jacksonville.  Both the north and the south bank are lined with parks and paved trails for urban hiking.  We love walking the  from the Riverside Arts Market across Locks of Love Bridge to Corkscrew Park on the northbank.

The southbank is also great!  After a trip to MOSH (Museum of Science & History) we like to walk to Friendship Fountain and down the riverbank.  The southbank is lined with art like a mosaic mural and the Lone Sailor.

Castaway Island Preserve

9. Explore the Largest Urban Park System in the United States

Hitting the parks is one of the best free things to do in Jacksonville.  The Bold City has the largest urban park system in the entire United States!  The city is home to over 80,000 acres of parks.  We have an impressive 400 city parks, 7 state parks, and 3 national parks!  Be sure to look into our favorite parks:  Castaway Island Preserve and Sheffield Park.

State Parks:  Big Talbot Island, Little Talbot Island, Yellow Bluff Fort Historic State Park, Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park, Fort George Island Cultural State Park,  George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier State Park, Amelia Island State Park

National Parks: Fort Caroline, Kingsley Plantation, Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

10. Visit the Largest Candy Store in the Southeastern US

Located in a historic 22,000 square foot mansion, Sweet Pete’s is the largest candy store in the southeastern United States! The venue features a restaurant, ice cream shop, and a factory where they make candy on-site.  It’s so fun to watch the chocolatiers and candy makers work their magic.  Sweet Pete’s also offers candy making classes that are highly recommended by the 5 Suitcases Crew!

We hope that our list of 10 Free Things to do in Jacksonville inspires you to get out and explore the First Coast!

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Categories
Florida Florida State Parks St. Augustine State Parks United States

Stunning Anastasia State Park

Gulf Island National Seashore

Anastasia State Park plays an important role in the history of St. Augustine- the oldest city in the United States.  The park was once a coquina quarry that was mined to help construct the nearby Castillo de San Marcos National Monument.

Today, the site is home to Anastasia State Park, which has pretty much anything a beachgoer may be looking for:  white quartz sand beaches, paddling, surfing, swimming, trails, wildlife, camping, bicycling, etc.

History of Anastasia State Park

In the 1500s, the Spanish crown laid claim to a vast area in the New World, including what is now known as Florida. The Spaniards struggled to establish a lasting presence in this area until in 1565 when Pedro Menendez founded St. Augustine.  His settlement was about 30 miles south of a French settlement called Fort Caroline on the St. Johns River, in present day Jacksonville.    Menendez was unaware the French had already settled in the area, and when he found out he aggressively worked to oust them. 

The French Huguenot leader, Jean Ribault, learned of the Spanish presence and sailed south to search for their settlement.  His ships were struck by a storm and most of the forces were lost at sea.  At the same time, Menendez marched north and found Fort Caroline completely unprotected.  The Spanish killed everyone but 50 women and 26 escapees. The French settlement in Florida came to a bloody end and the Spanish occupied the site as San Mateo until 1569.

When Menendez and his troops returned back to St. Augustine, he learned that Ribault and his troops were stranded south of the Spanish stronghold.  He quickly located the remaining Frenchmen and murdered all but the Catholics and a handful of women.  Hundreds of Huguenots died at the Massacre of Matanzas Inlet- just south of Anastasia Island State Park.

Ever since that dreadful day, the inlet where the massacre happened has been known as Matanzas meaning “slaughters” in Spanish.  Fort Matanzas, the Matanzas River, and the Matanzas Inlet were all named after the massacre.

More than 300 years ago coquina quarries located within Anastasia State Park were teaming with workers hauling out blocks of coquina rock.  The blocks were utilized to construct the historic Castillo de San Marcos, the crown jewel of St. Augustine.

The quarries were continuously used until the turn of the 20th century.

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

In the 1940s, the Army Corp of Engineers dredged a new inlet that would link the Matanzas Bay with the Atlantic Ocean.  The area where they dredged traversed a peninsula which later became known as Conch Island.  Since then, the tides and currents have carried sands from Jacksonville Beach down to the tip of the peninsula, causing it to double in size.  Later, in 1964, Hurricane Dora deposited even more sand forming the area that we now know as Anastasia State Park.

Anastasia State Park is located near historic St. Augustine on Anastasia Island.  It features a wide beach with a lagoon and is bordered by rich tidal marshes.

Today, visitors can visit the coquina quarry, an archaeological site where coquina rock was mined to construct the nearby Castillo de San Marcos.

Amenities at Anastasia State Park

  • Bicycling– over 4 miles of beach and several miles or park roads (some with bike lanes).  Bicycles are available for rent at the concession inside Anastasia State Park.
  • Boating
  • Camping- See below for more information
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Paddling-  Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are welcome along the Salt Run- the estuarine tidal marsh.  Rentals are available at the concession inside the park.
  • Playgrounds
  • Surfing
  • Swimming

Camping at Anastasia State Park

The campground features 139 sites for both RVs (up to 38 feet)  and tent camping.  The sites are all nestled in a beautiful maritime hammock juts a short distance rom the beach.

All sites have electricity and water, a picnic table, and a fire ring.  Some sites are paved.

Fun Fact:  Travel + Leisure Magazine has included Anastasia State Park on its list of America’s Prettiest Beach Campsites.

Visiting Anastasia State Park

Hours: 8 AM until sundown, 365 days a year

Fess:  $8/vehicle

Location: 300 Anastasia Park Road
St. Augustine, FL 32080

What is there to do Nearby?

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Categories
Florida Orlando Peppa Pig Theme Park United States Winter Haven

Our 10 OINK-tastic Peppa Pig Theme Park Tips

The Kids Relaxing in Peppa Pig's house at Peppa Pig Theme Park- Florida

Hooray!  You’re going to Peppa Pig Theme Park!  Our Peppa Pig Theme Park tips will help your trip go as smoothly as possible.  We’ll tell you what to pack and what you can leave at home.  We’ll also suggest which rides to go on first, and share some insider tips.  If you wanted to, you could easily tack add on a day or two at Legoland Florida, since the two parks are located directly next to each other.

What is Peppa Pig Theme Park?

The Peppa Pig Theme Park opened, which opened in 2022, is Florida’s newest theme park attractions.  The sensory-friendly park is perfect for your toddler or pre-schooler.  The park has 5 oink-tastic rides, several play spaces, a splash pad, and other kid-friendly attractions.  The park can easily be paired with Legoland Florida, which shares the same parking lot.

Peppa Pig Theme Park Tips

Arrive Early

Like most theme parks, it’s best to arrive at the park early.  This way, you not only get the most bang for your buck, but you also beat a lot of the crowds.  When we visited Peppa Pig Theme Park, we arrived just before the gates opened.  After only 1.5 hours, we were able to do all of the rides that the park has to offer!  We noticed that Peppa Pig Theme Park seems to have a later crowd, by the time we left, the lines were long and the walkways were pretty busy.

Ditch the Stroller

Probably one of our most the most unconventional of our Peppa Pig Theme Park Tips, is to ditch the stroller.  Believe it or not, the park is actually quite small!  We brought our stroller to the park and didn’t end up using it at all!  We found that it was easier for us to park it in one place rather than continuously move it around.  We ended up parking our stroller in a central location (the Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster ride) and just went back to the stroller whenever we needed to grab something.

Our advice is to either leave it behind or park it and use it to store your belongings.  

Pack Your Own Snacks & Drinks

The park allows you to bring in your own food and drinks.  If your visiting during the warmer months, be sure to pack plenty of water! We bought these snack containers for when we travel and have found that they work great for our family!

Some of the snacks we pack for theme parks include:

  • Fruit snacks
  • PBJs (Uncrustables work great!)
  • Peanut Butter Crackers
  • Muffins
  • Rice Cakes
  • Granola Bars
  • Nutri-grain Bars
  • Trail Mix
  • Dried Fruit

Plan on Eating Early

This is probably the one Peppa Pig Theme Park tip that will save you the most time!  The park has only one restaurant in it so you can imagine that it gets busy pretty quickly!  Plan on eating as soon as Miss Rabbit’s Diner opens to avoid crazy long tines.  We recommend the pizza and mac n cheese.  Be sure to save room for one of their fancy schmancy milkshakes!

Pack a Bathing Suit

What better way to beat the heat than to frolic around in the splash pad?  Bring a bathing suit (check out these Peppa Pig ones!), towel, water shoes, and sun screen!

Catch a Show

One way to make the most out of your day is to catch one of the shows.  Head to Mr. Potato’s Showtime Arena to join in on the fun.  Your little one can join Peppa and the gang in a bit of singing and dancing.  Be sure to arrive at arena a little early so you can snag a bean bag or a spot up close!

Meet & Greets

You’ll also find Meet & Greets in the arena.  Be sure to snap a photo with Peppa or George!

Work Counterclockwise

Another one of our time saving Peppa Pig Theme Park Tips is to work your way around the park counterclockwise.  This allows you to do the more popular rides before the crowds start rolling in.

Our suggested order is:

  • Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster
  • Mr. Bull’s High Striker
  • Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride
  • Granddad Dog’s Pirate Boat Ride and Sand Pit
  • Grampy Rabbit’s Dinosaur Adventure
  • Muddy Puddle’s Splash Pad
  •  Peppa’s Pedal Bike Tour
After you’ve hit all of these attractions up, we suggest catching a show, playing int he lay areas, or visiting the air-conditioned theatre.

Seek Shade!

Another reason we suggest doing the park in the above order is the lack of shade in the park.  The attractions at the top of our list offer little or no shade.  You’ll find shade at Peppa Pedal Bike Tour (there’s even an air-conditioning vent under the tunnel!) and at the Muddy Puddle’s Splash Pad.

Grab a Pin

If it is your first visit, or if you are visiting for a birthday, be sure to stop by Guest Services and ask for a special pin.

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Categories
Florida Florida State Parks Jacksonville State Parks United States

Yellow Bluff Fort Historic State Park- A Small But Mighty Stronghold

Yellow Bluff Fort Historic State Park is one of the seven Florida State Parks located in Jacksonville.  The park itself is very small (it is only about 2 acres), but the site played an important role in the Civil War.   Since it was strategically located at Dames Point on the St. Johns River, Yellow Bluff Fort granted access to the island areas of Florida’s east coast.

By 1862, Union troops had already captured Fernandina, including Fort Clinch, and St. Augustine, and would end up taking Jacksonville in March of the same year.  

The park was added to the US National Register of Historic Place in 1970.  In all honesty, a lot of the park is open to interpretation.  There is not a lot of signages, and the park could use a little TLC.  With a bit of funding, this charming little park could be a great state park.

The History of Yellow Bluff Fort

At the time of the Civil War, Florida’s economy was poppin’.  The state thrived off of agricultural trade, livestock, and other goods.  Railroads and rivers helped transport supplies throughout the state.

When the war broke out in 1861, Florida joined the Confederacy.  General Robert E. Lee ordered the construction of defenses along the coast of the river to protect the supplies being imported via the river.  One of these earthworks, was Yellow Bluff Fort.

Fun Fact:  Earthworks are mounds of dirt used for defensive fighting.

Despite the name, there was never an actual fort on Yellow Bluff.  Instead, it was a fortified encampment. T-shaped earthworks covering about 1.3 acres were constructed on the banks of the St. Johns River.  These defensive mounds were commonly used throughout the Civil War because they were relatively quick to construct and rather inexpensive.  These mounds protected not only soldiers but guns and canons, as well.

Construction of the site began in 1862.  Interestingly, the site was occupied by both Union and Confederate troops during construction.  

At its peak, this small encampment was home for more than 250 soldiers.  Yellow Bluff Fort served to protect shipping supply lines to Jacksonville via the river.

The park is located on Yellow Bluff peninsula on the north side of the St. Johns River.  It is located on New Berlin Road.

Yellow Bluff Fort Today

Believe it or not, this small 2-acre state park is nestled in the middle of a neighborhood.  There are houses on either side of the park.  At the entrance of the park you’ll find a stone monument and a cannon beckoning you into the park.  There are additional cannons scattered around the property.

The monument tells a brief history of the site and how it once house both Union and Confederate forces during the Civil War.  Today, the space is mostly an open area covered by the canopy of magnificent live oaks.  There are a few picnic tables, but other than that there are no amenities.

Yellow Bluff Fort Historic Park offers sweeping views of the Dames Point Bridge that spans over the St. Johns River.  It is easy to see why this spot offered such an advantage to the soldiers that camped here.

Today, mother nature has reclaimed much of the land.  Majestic live oaks, shrubs, magnolias, and other greenery cover what was once an important site in the area’s military history.

A Ghostly Urban Legend

Legend has it that the wife/lover of one of the 350 soldiers that were stationed at Yellow Bluff Fort haunts the park.  Woman in White, as she is known,  is said to appear crying at the base of the Confederate memorial during moonless nights.

Some stories say that she is dangerous and has been known to attack couples that visit the park.  One claim is that she tried to kill a man with her long, sharp nails.  

Long story short, if you run into Woman in White, let her grieve in peace.

 

What is There to do at Yellow Bluff Fort?

Very little physical evidence of the fort remains today.  One obvious feature is the extensive trench system that was dug for fortification.  The trenches were about 10-feet deep and in some places up to 15-feet wide.

A short trail meanders around the encampment , rolling down and then back up the namesake earthen walls of the “fort”.  You’ll also find an earthwork mound and trench system that was created by the Confederate Army to defend Jacksonville against the attacking Union Army.

The park has several picnic tables that are available to visitors.

Visiting Yellow Bluff Fort

The park is open from 8 AM until sunset.  It is open 365 days a week.

There are no fees to enjoy the park.

It is located about a mile off if Interstate 295.

Our Thoughts on Yellow Bluff Fort

The park offers great views of the river, and would be a great spot to enjoy a picnic.  But other than that, the park is just kind of…meh.  With a bit of funding, the park could be great, but as it stands a lot of it is left up for the visitor to interpret on their own.  If you didn’t know that the trenches and mounds were manmade, you’d think they were just part of the landscape.  There’s very little signage explaining the site.

If you’re a local looking for somewhere new to explore, or if you’re a visitor who is really into the Civil War, then the Yellow Bluff Fort may be worth a visit. Fort Clinch is another Civil War era fort that was an actual fort and is in remarkable condition.  We suggest visiting Fort Clinch over this faux-fort.

Despite its proximity to the cruise ship terminal, the park did not make our list of Things for Cruisers to do in Jacksonville. 

What is there to do Nearby?

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Categories
Florida National Forest Springs United States

Exploring the Beautiful Salt Springs Recreation Area in Ocala National Forest

Salt Springs in Ocala National Forest

Salt Springs Recreation Area is one of the highlights of the Ocala National Forest.  The forest is just north of Orlando and is the perfect day trip for nature lovers!  It is a great spot for hiking, paddling, swimming and camping.  Within the forest there are four crystal-clear, picturesque springs just begging to be explored!  The springs are Juniper Springs, Salt Springs, Silver Glen Springs, and the lovely Alexander Springs.

One of our favorite things about Salt Springs is that it is perfect for families!  Most of the swimming area is actually quite shallow- once you get away from the entrance area. The park also permits floats, which makes the springs extra fun for kids!  We found a cove across from the entranceway and it was the ideal spot for our littles.

The closer you get to the spring vent, the deeper- and rockier- the water gets.   Rows of limestone rocks line the floor the the springs- almost as if an earthquake rumbled through the area causing a massive ancient ruin to collapse.  Other rocks look like giant fingers reaching out from the underworld.  It’s really quite magical!   These rocks allow you to stand around the vent, which can be very slippery at times.  You’ll probably want to pack some water shoes with you!  These will help protect your feet from the rocks and the blue crabs that inhabit the area.

Several visitors tried their hand at diving into the spring vents only to find they were almost immediately forced back up to the surface by the pressure.  Salt Springs is a 2nd magnitude spring which pushes about 55 million gallons of water out through the four vents.  That’s a lot of water pressure escaping through these small caverns!

The water at Salt Springs is a constant 72-degrees, which can be quite an adjustment in the summer months.  Once you’re in the water though, you’ll acclimate quickly.  You probably may have guessed by the name that the springs are a little salty.  The water is nothing like you’ll find at the beach however, it does have some salinity to it due to natural magnesium, sodium, and potassium salts.

Are There Alligators in the Springs?

Yes! There are most definitely alligators in the springs. And snakes. In fact, a rule of thumb here in Florida is that you should assume that there is an alligator in every body of freshwater.  That being said, alligators typically want nothing to do with you.  They are completely content laying on the bank of the spring catching some rays.  As long as you don’t approach them, you’re typically fine. Even during the summer, when the springs are jam-packed with people, there will be alligators present.  They tend to situate themselves outside of the run (where you can’t swim or tube) so that they don’t have to deal with you.  Chances are, if you kayak, canoe, or paddle board, you’ll spot a gator sunning on the banks.

What Animals Live at Salt Springs?

Around the springs you’ll find bears, racoons, deer, and an impressive number of vultures.   Inside the springs you may find fish, otters (in the early morning hours), turtles, and alligators.  During the winter months, you may also spot a manatee.  The spring is also well-known for having blue crabs.  These crabs are a small reminder that Florida was once completely underwater millions of years ago.  This is also why you can find shark teeth in Central Florida!

Where is Salt Springs Located?

The springs are a part of the Ocala National Forest.  Salt Springs  is easily accessible as a day trip from Orlando, Daytona, and Jacksonville.

Physical Address:  13851 SR 19, Salt Springs

Visiting Information

The hours vary by season so be sure to check their website to plan accordingly. During the summer months it is typically open from 8 AM until 8 PM.

The current fees are:

Weekday Day Use:  $8/person
Weekend Day Use:  $11/person

What is there to do at Salt Springs?

It goes without saying that most people visit this park to visit the springs.  This is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.  

Other activities include hiking, camping, boating, and fishing.  

Hiking:  There is a 1.4 mile Bear Swamp Trail loop that begins near the campground.  There is also the Salt Springs Observation Trail which is a 1.9 mile easy loop.

Camping  There are over 150 campsites at the park.  In fact, Salt Springs is home to the largest campground in the Ocala National Forest.  

Boating & Fishing:  Just outside of the park, you’ll find the Salt Springs Marina.  Parking is $10 and the site features a boat launch and kaya rentals.  There is not boating, paddling, or fishing permitted in the swimming area, so if you want to get your pole or paddle wet, you’ll have to do it here.

Fun Fact:  The above mentioned marina butts up to the edge of the park.  Many of the locals enjoy the springs from the boat launch rather than the park because it is more cost effective.  

Nearby Springs

The four springs of the Ocala National Forest all are within a 30 minute drive of each other.  Many visitors choose to “spring hop” and visit more than one spring in a day.  We like to take things a little slower, however, so we pick just one spring to visit each day.

Our Spring Essentials

Floats and Rafts

SportsStuff Noodler 2
River Run Inflatable American Flag 2 Person Tube Float with Cooler
Giant Flamingo Float
Giant Unicorn Float

More Fun Stuff!

Inflatable Kayak
Inflatable Paddleboard (I swear by this one!)
Full-Face Snorkel Mask

Safety

Puddle Jumper Vest
Swim Vest
First Aid Kit

Skin Care & Insect Repellent

Coppertone Kids Sunscreen
OFF! Family Care Insect Spray
Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

Towels & Swim Suits

Toddler Striped Hooded Poncho Towels
Women’s Boardshorts
Women’s 50+ SPF Shirt
Girl’s Roxy Rashguard

When is the Best time to Visit? 

The springs are phenomenal year round!  If you want a glimpse of the manatees, come during the winter (January and February seem to be peak times).  If you want to kayak, canoe, or paddle board you can do so year round, but you’ll find it less crowded in the cooler months.  Just remember that you’ll have to launch from the marina next door as the park doesn’t allow paddling within its boundaries.

If you’re brave, you can swim year round.  The water temperature is the same all year.  Florida’s weather is really inconsistent in the winter.  We can go from being in the 80s one day to the 50s the next.  As long as you can handle the outside temperatures when you exit the springs, you can absolutely swim in the springs 365 days a year.

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Categories
Florida Gainesville United States

Finding Shark Teeth with Mudslinger Tours in Gainesville, Florida

Sharks teeth discovered with Mudslinger Tours in Gainesville

Believe it or not, we have found more shark teeth in central Florida than we found on sandy beaches!  Despite being about an hour and a half from the nearest beach, Gainesville, Florida is a hot spot for finding shark teeth.  We recently went shark teeth and fossil hunting with Mudslinger Tours and we were absolutely blown away with our experience!

I’ve had several of my friends’ book tours with Mudslinger Tours over the last few years and they have all ranted and raved about their experience.  I’ve been wanting to go for years now but wanted to wait until the twins were old enough to really enjoy it.  Let me tell you, it was well worth the wait!  We walked away from our four-hour tour with about 100 shark teeth!

In all honesty, I didn’t have much hope of finding shark teeth.  I’ve never been very good at spotting them on the beach.  It wasn’t until I was a teenager that I actually found a shark tooth on the beach…and that was only because it was a megalodon tooth so it stuck out like a sore thumb. Aside from that treasure, I have only managed to find a dozen or so teeth on our beaches.  I guess,  I either don’t have the eye or the patience for it.  The fact that we found over 100 in less than four hours was pretty damn cool.  

It turns out, in order to find shark teeth…I had to leave the beach!

How Are There Shark Teeth in Central Florida?

For millions of years, Florida was underwater meaning you can find shark teeth pretty much all over the state.  Most fossil shark teeth are found in sedimentary rock- which was once the bottom of the ocean!  The best places to find shark teeth are at the beach during low tide and at the edges and bottoms of creeks and rivers.  Water erodes the harder sedimentary layers and helps to expose the fossil shark teeth.

Our Experience with Mudslinger Tours

We booked a half-day morning tour with Mudslinger Tours.  The morning tour lasted from 9 AM until 1 PM, which is more than enough time to get soaking wet in the creek and to find a plethora of shark teeth and fossils.

We left our house in JAX early in the morning and headed inland to Gainesville.  When we arrived at the home where the tours depart, we were immediately greeted by two of the guides and shown a collection of shark teeth and fossils that have been found in the nearby creek beds.  After a quick introduction and rundown of some rules, we walked about 150 yards down the road and down a narrow path in the woods until we reached the creek.  From here, our guide, Rob, split us off into groups.  We were all stationed far apart from each other in the creek, which was great because it gave us plenty of space to work and play.

Rob quickly showed us how to use the scoops and gave us some pointers to help us find the shark teeth.  The key is to dig at least elbow deep, so we found a hole and got to scooping.  We found teeth with pretty much every scoop of gravel we dug out of the creek.  It was absolutely incredible!  The whole creek bed was filled with teeth and fossils.

We worked out a system where one of us would scoop the gravel into the sifting pans, the boys would sift out all of the sand, and Smiley and whomever wasn’t scooping would go through the pan looking for teeth.

Pro-Tip:  Be sure to establish a discard pile so that you don’t scoop through gravel you’ve already searched through.

Once we got into the groove, it was really easy to spot the shark teeth.  They ranged in size from being small enough to slip through the mesh on our sifters to being the size of a dime.  

The four-hour tour was a tad long for our little guys.  They’d scoop and sift for a while and then randomly abandon their equipment to splash around in the creek.  They had an absolute blast and all of that playing in the cool waters wore them out by the end of the day!  On the other hand, our eight-year-old was perfectly content scooping and searching through our pans.

Pro-Tip:  Be sure to pack a snack or a light lunch along with plenty of liquids. 

Booking a Tour with Mudslinger Tours

To book your own tour with Mudslinger Tours, visit their Facebook Page.  Tours must be booked at least a week in advance.  A deposit is due at the time of booking and the remaining balance must be paid upon arrival.

The company operates out of a residence located at:

1414 NW 43rd Ave, Gainesville, FL 32605

Our Tips for Shark Teeth Hunting

The banks of the creek are filled with sharks teeth!  Unfortunately, shark tooth and fossil hunters are unable to dig in the banks.  In fact, you can’t use shovels to hunt in the creeks at all!  Instead, you have to wait for mother nature to erode the banks naturally. 

Here are some tips we learned from our pals at Mudslinger Tours:

  • The best spots to find the teeth are along the waterline at the creek.  This is because the rainwater erodes the banks and washes the shark teeth and fossils into the creek.
  • Find a hole and start scooping! The deeper down you can get, the more successful you’ll be.  We found that by moving a rock, or by finding a pre-existing hole, it cut down on some of the scooping.  The goal is to get in an area that is between elbow and shoulder deep.  If you reach clay, you’ve gone too far.
  • Establish a discard pile. Dump all of your excess gravel in the same pile.  This way, you don’t keep searching through the same bits of gravel.
  • Try scooping with your hands. The folx at Mudslinger Tours will provide you with a super sturdy metal scoop.  It had holes in it that allowed for the sand and water to exit the scoop.  Super handy!  Speaking of hands…you can also use your bare hands to begin establishing your digging hole.  You’ll be surprised by how much sand you can scoop with just your hands!
  • Make sure you’re not scooping in someone else’s discard pile. Your guide will suggest that you find a natural pile of gravel and start your hunt there.  If after a few scoops, you notice you’re not coming up with very many shark teeth or fossils, chances are you’re going through someone else’s discard pile. Move on.

Our Shark Tooth Hunting Essentials

Our kids wore their galoshes into the creek and they had to keep pouring out boot fulls of water and gravel.  In retrospect, we should have packed their water shoes.  Mudslinger Tours provides scoops, sifters, and baggies to collect your treasures.

It is forbidden to use shovels to extract shark teeth and fossils from the sediment.

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Categories
Florida National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores UNESCO World Heritage Site United States

Everglades National Park- Voted One of the Best National Parks in the USA

Everglades National Park has consistently been ranked as one of the top national parks.  It is one of the prime locations for wildlife viewing- after all, where else can you see alligators, crocodiles, dolphins, manatees, turtles, birds, and fish?  There’s more to do at the Everglades National Park than just scope out the awesome wildlife, it’s also a great place to hike, paddle, camp, and take a boat tour.

The Everglades is a true American treasure!  So much so that it is also a World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve. 

One of the most exhilarating ways to experience the park is on the water.  The swamp is full of narrow mangrove tunnels making parts of the Everglades impossible to explore unless you’re in a kayak.  

If you’re feeling slightly less adventurous, you can also book a boat tour.

The park is massive and there are no public transportation options.  You’ll definitely want to make sure you have access to a vehicle.  Since the park is so large, it is hard to see all of it in one day so if you’re limited to just one day, you’ll have to pick and choose what you want to do.  It is smart to plan your day based on the park entrance you’re closest to.  Everglades City is to the west, Homestead is to the south, and Miami is to the northeast.  

What is there to do at Everglades National Park?

There is no shortage of adventure in this 2,400 square mile park!  Popular activities include:

  • Hiking
  • Biking (rentals are available)
  • Camping
  • Canoeing
  • Kayaking
  • Tram tours

Park Highlights

  • Shark Valley –  This section is prime gator country.  You’re pretty much guaranteed to see alligators, turtles, snakes, and birds here.  There is a 15-mile paved loop trail where you can walk, bike, or take a tram tour. There is a 45-foot observation tower that you don’t want to miss.  Bike rentals are available at the Shark Valley Visitor Center.  (Accessible via the Shark Valley Visitor Center).
  • Snake Bight Trail- This 1.6 mile (one way) trail follows a canal through a tropical hardwood hammock.  The boardwalk is great for bird watching.  (Accessible via the Flamingo Visitor Center).
  • Long Pine Key Trails-  Hike or bike a system of 22 miles of trails.  (Accessible via the Ernest Coe Visitor Center).
  • Flamingo Marina- Here you can rent canoes, kayaks, or bicycles.  You can also book a boat tour or enjoy a hike.  (Accessible via Flamingo Visitor Center).  

Camping in the Everglades

There are two drive-in campgrounds accessible from the Homestead entrance of the park.  Long Pine Key and Flamingo Campground both accommodate tents and RVs.   Flamingo Campground accepts reservations for some sites during the winter months.  Long Pine Key is first-come, first-served.  

The Flamingo Campground offers eco-tents for a glamping experience.  Availability is limited so be sure to book these well in advance, especially during peak season.

Primitive camping is available throughout the park and requires a permit.  

Airboat Tours

One of the best ways to experience the Everglades National Park is by booking an airboat tour.  You definitely won’t regret it!  There are three authorized airboat businesses that offer tours inside Everglades National Park.  These tours take you deep into the Everglades for an up-close and personal visit with the wildlife.  The expert guides know exactly where specific animals (such as alligators) tend to hang out.  

When is the Best Time to Visit?

November to May is the best time to visit.  Not only does the humidity dip down a little bit, but the mosquito population also drops.  Since it is dry season, the animals tend to gather around water holes making them easier to see.  

The “Wet Season” is from June to October.  Afternoon thunderstorms are basically an everyday occurrence due to the high humidity.  Temperatures skyrocket to 100 and mosquitos, yellow flies, and other biting bugs are prevalent.  

Visiting the Everglades National Park

The park is so massive that it has several different entrances.  Shark Valley Visitor Center and Gulf Coast Visitor Center are located on the north end of the park.  Ernest Coe Visitor Center and Flamingo Visitor Center can be found on the south end.  

The entrance fee is $30 per vehicle and is good for 7 consecutive days.  Other fees:  $15/cyclist, $25/motorcycle

How to Visit the Park For Free

Although some National Park sites are free, some of them require a fee to enter.    This fee ranges from $5 per vehicle to $35 per vehicle whereas some charge up to $20 a person. 

The National Parks offer Free National Park Days where you can access the park for free!  Learn more about these days.

If you have a fourth-grader, you can get an annual pass that grants you access to all of the parks for free!  Every year, starting on September 1st, all fourth-grade students are eligible for an Every Kid Outdoors Pass. The pass grants free access to the entire family!   Fill out the form at www.everykidoutdoors.gov

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Categories
Florida National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores St. Augustine United States

The Iconic Castillo de San Marcos- The Crown Jewel of St. Augustine

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Imagine a stone fort capable of completely absorbing cannon balls. No, this isn’t the space age, this fort was actually constructed hundreds of years ago! Castillo de San Marcos is the crown jewel of the historic city of St. Augustine. Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States.  The historic district is filled with charming shops, top-notch eateries, and, of course, historic landmarks.  At the center of all of this is Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.

The fort is probably the most famous attraction in the city of St. Augustine.  The fort was constructed over 400 years ago (in 1672), and it is in remarkable condition.  It stood the test of time and managed to overcome battles, hurricanes…and tourists!

Castillo de San Marcos is right on the waterfront and offers breathtaking views. When I went to school at nearby Flagler College, I would frequently spend hours sitting at the fort studying for my exams.  It’s one of my favorite places to spend time in the Ancient City. 

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

History of Castillo de San Marcos

St. Augustine was founded in 1565 by the Spanish conquistador, Pedro Menendez de Aviles.  Nearly 100 years later, construction began on the fort.  Coquina stones for the fort were gathered from present day Anastasia State Park.  Castillo de San Marcos is one of the only two fortifications in the world built out of this semi-rare form of limestone.  The other coquina fortification is Fort Matanzas, found about 14 miles south.

Typically, when a cannonball hits an object it create a significant amount of damage.  This unique stone has the ability to absorb mechanical stress causing it to essentially swallow the cannonball!

When Britain gained control of Florida in 1763, St. Augustine became the capital of the British East Florida and the fort was renamed Fort St. Mark.  Twenty years later, the territory was transferred back to the Spanish and the fort’s original name was restored.

Not only was the fort used as a stronghold during the 1600s and 1700s, it was also used as an army base (for the US) named Fort Marion  in the 1800s.  The fort became a National Monument in 1924.  It saw 251 of continuous military possession before it was deactivated in 1933.  In 1942, Congress reenacted the fort’s original name, Castillo de San Marcos.

The fort saw its fair share of dark days.  For starters, some slave labor was used to construct the stone fort.  In addition, the fort was attacked several times, and was besieged twiced.  The fort was also used as a military prison to imprison Native Americans (including the famous war chief Osceola).

Visiting Castillo de San Marcos

The history of the fort is fascinating!  Even if you’re not a fan of history or forts, you’ll enjoy visiting Castillo de San Marcos. It is definitely one of those places that the whole family will enjoy!  

The chambers on the lower level of the fort are filled with artifacts, interactive displays, and other relics.  You may even run into a living history character!

On the upper part of the port, there are cannons galore!  You’ll also find plenty of benches so that you can kick back and enjoy the beauty of St. Augustine.  Keep your eyes out for manatees, egrets, and osprey!

Address:  11 South Castillo Drive
St. Augustine, FL

Visiting Hours:  The fort is open every day of the year except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.   Castillo de San Marcos is open from 9:00-5:00.  

Admission:  $15 per person for visitors 16 and older.  Ages 16 and under are free.

Things to Know Before Visiting Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

The Best Time to Visit Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

The best time to visit is in the winter or spring when the weather is cooler and the bugs aren’t nearly as bad.

Entrance Fees

Entrance for adults is $15 per person.  Children 15 and under are free.

Cell Service

We had great cell service during our visit to the park.

Parking

There is a pay-to-park lot directly in front of Castillo de San Marcos.  You may also be able to find street parking.  

Pet Policy

Pets are not allowed inside the fort of Castillo de San Marcos.  Pets must be kept on a leash at all times on the outside sections of the park.

Distance from Major Cities

  • Jacksonville, FL – 60 miles
  • Orlando, FL – 90 miles
  • Tampa, FL – 180 miles
  • Miami, FL – 320 miles
  • Atlanta, GA – 420 miles
  • Charlotte, NC – 440 miles
  • Birmingham, AL – 500 miles

Distance from Nearby National Parks

What is There to do Around the Fort?

We suggest starting your day off at the fort and then crossing the street to visit the Spanish Colonial Quarter.

There are plenty of other great shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars in the Spanish Colonial Quarter.  The historic quarter is also dotted with other historic structures like the Oldest School House and the Old City Gates.  We suggest spending some time popping in and out of the businesses that line the historic quarter.

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Post Updated: 3/20/2024

Categories
Florida Orlando Peppa Pig Theme Park United States Winter Haven

Peppa Pig Theme Park- Florida’s Newest (and TOTALLY ADORABLE!) Theme Park!

The Kids Relaxing in Peppa Pig's house at Peppa Pig Theme Park- Florida

Florida’s newest theme park is totally oink-tastic!  In early 2022, Peppa Pig Them Park opened its gates for the very first time.  The theme park is centered around the long-running pre-school animated series featuring the adventures of Peppa and her brother George.  The park is geared towards young children.  It features five rides, sensory play spaces, and other great attractions.

Peppa Pig Theme Park Entrance

Rides at Peppa Pig Theme Park

Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster- The most THRILLING ride at Peppa Pig Theme Park is a kid-friendly coaster that is sure to make their heart race!  

Requirements: Minimum rider height is 36 inches.  Guests less than 42 inches must be accompanied by a responsible rider 14 years or older.

Note:  This ride closes down during rain showers.

The Kids Relaxing in Peppa Pig's house at Peppa Pig Theme Park- Florida
Grampy Rabbit's Dinosaur Adventure Ride at Peppa Pig Theme Park

Grampy Rabbit’s Dinosaur Adventure-  Grown ups can ride along with their little ones on this totally awesome dino quest! You’ll pass by smoking volcanoes, and travel through the prehistoric landscape.

Requirements:  Minimum rider height is 34 inches.  Guests less than 43 inches must be accompanied by a responsible rider 14 years or older.

 

Grandad Dog’s Pirate Boat Ride-  Take a leisurely boat ride with your little explorer.  Set sail for Pirate Island where you can dig for buried treasure, construct mighty fortresses, or play in the sand.

Requirements:  No minimum height requirement.  Guests 43 inches or under 4 years old must be accompanied by a responsible rider 14 years or older.-

Mr. Bull’s High Striker- Our kids absolutely loved this kid-friendly drop ride!  You and your family will be lifted straight up into the sky and thrusted back down to the Earth.  

Requirements:  Minimum rider height is 34 inches.  Guests less than 43 inches must be accompanied by a responsible rider 14 years or older.

Peppa Pig's Balloon Ride offers excellent views of the entire theme park!

Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride-  You and your family can soar above this clouds with Peppa Pig in Miss Rabbit’s hot air balloon!  This aerial carousel ride offers the best views of the park and will surely leave your little one giggling with excitement!

Requirements:  No minimum height requirement.  Guests less than 51 inches must be accompanied by a responsible rider 14 years or older.

Note:  This ride closes down during the rain.

Other Attractions

Cinema- Take a break from the hot Florida sun to relax on a beanbag with your little piggies.  Enjoy some of their favorite episodes of Peppa Pig.

Fun Fair- Try your hand at some classic fair games.  When we visited, these games were in pretty bad shape and only included tossing hula hoops over posts.

George’s Fort- Your little ones will love searching through the hedge maze in search of who is making an unusual croaking noise!  Don’t worry- it’s just a frog!

Madame Gazelle’s Nature Trail- Join Madame Gazelle as you hunt for clues to to try to discover who has left tiny foot prints!  Can you solve the mystery?

Granny Pig's Garden at Peppa Pig Theme Park

Grandpa Pig’s Greenhouse- This isn’t your average greenhouse!  Your little ones can explore Grandpa Pig’s Greenhouse as they climb, slide, crawl, and play on this super-fun interactive outdoor playground.

Mr. Potato’s Showtime Arena- Hop on over to the stage area to enjoy live shows and meet and greets!

Muddy Puddles Splash Pad- Be sure to pack your bathing suits!  There’s no better way to cool off than by jumping up and down in “Muddy Puddles”!  

Peppa’s Pedal Bike Tour and George’s Tricycle Trail-  Your little piggy will love showing off their bicycling skills on these super fun tricycles!

Peppa Pig’s Treehouse- Climb into the treehouse and join Peppa for a spot of tea!  This fun, interactive playground is a great spot to get out some energy before catching a show.

Pirate Island Sand Play- Dig for buried treasure or build your own sandcastle in this super cool sandbox!

Rebecca Rabbit’s Playground- Bounce, hop, jump, crawl, and climb like a little bunny in this outdoor active play area!

The Park's Restaurant

The park has just one restaurant, which fills up incredibly fast.  If you’re eating in the restaurant, we strongly suggest visiting it as soon as it opens.  The eatery serves up shockingly good pizza, mac n cheese, and sandwiches.  They also have super-fun (and super-sugary) milkshakes topped with cookies and sprinkles.

Know Before You Go

  • Arrive at the park as early as possible.  We got there just before the gates were opened and we did all of the rides, caught a show, did the attractions, and had 2 meet and greets within 2 hours.  The park gets busier later in the day.
  • The restaurant starts poppin’ around 11:45.  The earlier you can get there, the better. 
  • The park allows you to bring in your own drinks and snacks.
  • The park can easily be done in half a day.
The kids with Peppa Pig
  • If you have a toddler or pre-schooler, leave the stroller behind.  The park is so small that you can easily navigate it without a stroller.  We ended up just parking ours and leaving it somewhere.
  • There isn’t much shade in the park- which could be a huge issue in the summer.  Be sure to pack plenty of water and cooling aids.  Shaded/cool down areas include:  the theatre, the restaurant, the splash pad, the bicycle path, and the stage area.

Visiting Peppa Pig Theme Park

One LEGOLAND Way
Winter Haven, FL 33884

The park hours vary from day to day.  Be sure to visit the official website to confirm the opening and closing times.

Peppa Pig Theme Park Essentials

Our Thoughts on Peppa Pig Theme Park

Our kids really enjoyed Peppa Pig Theme Park.  The park itself was small and can easily be done in 1/2 a day.  Despite it being small in size, it is definitely still worth the visit– if you have young kids.  We found that with the theme park being on the smaller size, it was actually more inviting for our kids.  All of the rides were developed for young kids, so we didn’t really have to worry about whether or not the twin were tall enough for certain rides.  It’ll be interesting to see how the park develops and grows over the years.  

Pairing Peppa Pig Theme Park with Legoland Florida

Legoland and Peppa Pig Theme Park actually share the same parking lot, so it is easy to pair the two of them together. However, Legoland is massive and it will take you all day to do the park.  If you want to do both Legoland and Peppa Pig Theme Park, we suggest adding on at least another 1/2 day to your trip.

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