The Lodge At Wakulla Springs Gets Spooky With The Black Lagoon Ball

visitwakulldev on October 27, 2015

Get into the spooky spirit just before All Hallows Eve at the Black Lagoon Ball, hosted by the Lodge at Wakulla Springs! It’s the perfect time of year to get into the Halloween spirit, and what better way to celebrate than taking in a classic horror film and dancing until the spirits come out to play.

The ball begins at 7:00 PM on Friday, October 30th, and is planned to run until 11:00 PM. Admission to this haunting event is free, and you’re encouraged to come dressed in your scariest costume.

A Frightening Film Presentation

1954’s Creature from the Black Lagoon has remained one of cinema’s most beloved monster horror classics for decades. The film instantly resonated with audiences, thanks largely to the production design of the titular creature’s head and suit. Now, you have the chance to see this Halloween mainstay in 3-D, the way it was originally shot back in the 50’s. Also, portions of the film were shot right here in Wakulla Springs, so you never know when the creature might emerge from the water to terrorize humanity once again! You won’t find a more frightening way to celebrate Halloween weekend anywhere in the area.

Drinks, Dancing, & More Devilish Delights

The Black Lagoon Ball isn’t only about the movie, however. It’s the time to show off your Halloween costume and enjoy drink specials, live music, and dancing throughout the evening. You can even plan to come a little early and enjoy dinner at the Lodge before the ball begins (reservations are requested).

Get in on the Ghoulish Fun!

With free admission, a classic monster horror flick, and costumes and music galore, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t spend a haunting evening at the Lodge at Wakulla Springs on October 30th. Well, unless you’re worried about the Creature from the Black Lagoon crashing the party! For more details on the spookiest event of the year, check out our Facebook page, or call 1-850-421-2000.

St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge 2015 Monarch Butterfly Festival

visitwakulldev on October 20, 2015

There are few sights more invigorating than witnessing the migration of wild monarch butterflies, which is why the St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge is once again organizing its annual Monarch Butterfly Festival! This year, the Monarch Butterfly Festival will be held on Saturday, October 24 from 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM.

The St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most cherished nature preserves in the country, and this exciting event is perfect for veteran wildlife seekers as well as families looking for an afternoon of casual fun. Guests only need to pay the Refuge entrance fee in order to attend, so don’t miss one of the most unique festivals in the country!

Nature

As you would expect from an institution as revered as the St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge, there will be plenty of opportunities for kids and adults to learn about monarch butterflies and other wildlife. You can watch the butterflies be tagged as they continue their journey southward to warmer climates for the winter. Watching the brilliant orange butterflies take to the sky together is truly one of the most beautiful sights in nature, and every year the Monarch Butterfly Festival presents an opportunity to see them up close and personal. Additionally, many different exhibitors will be on hand with informational and educational presentations.

Food

You and your family can stay at the festival for its entirety, as picnic food will be available featuring Bradley’s sausage dogs and all-beef hot dogs. After lunch, you can even take an idyllic trip down one of the Refuge’s many scenic hiking trails.

Family Fun

The Monarch Butterfly Festival features many more exciting events that the whole family will enjoy! There will be special activities and craft projects set up especially for the kids, so they’ll always have fun and engaging ways to spend their time at the festival. Also, guests can embark on an exclusive, “behind the gates” tour of the St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge. The Refuge contains one of the most diverse and interesting ecological habitats on the planet, so this tour is not to be missed! You’ll also have the ability to relax and enjoy live music throughout the festival, and no trip to the Refuge is complete without exploring the many wonders contained in the Nature Shop.

Sharks and Chablis: An Event Not To Be Missed

visitwakulldev on October 15, 2015

It’s time to once again get excited for the upcoming “Sharks and Chablis,” benefitting the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab and Aquarium! This year, the sixth annual installment of this incredible event will take place on Sunday, October 18 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Gulf Specimen in Panacea.

Tickets are just $45 for general admission ($35 for GSML members and schoolteachers), so order them today to contribute to a worthy initiative, and get ready for a day filled with marine life fun and education!

What will funds raised be contributing to?

For over 50 years, the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab has been dedicated to researching and protecting marine life, as well as providing resources to help others learn about the crucial role that the marine ecosystem plays in our environment. Each year, GSML uses the proceeds generated from its “Sharks and Chablis” annual fundraiser to support the organization’s myriad educational programs.

This year, the money raised will go towards the expansion of the laboratory’s sea turtle facilities. Rescuing and rehabilitating endangered sea turtles is one of GSML’s most important missions, and they plan to enhance this effort by installing a new filtration system built specifically for sea turtles, as well opening a brand new rehabilitation hospital for larger species of sea turtles. Your support is vital to helping GSML protect one of Florida’s most beloved and unique marine animals.

Who is this year’s headlining speaker?

“Sharks and Chablis” guests will have the honor of hearing Emmy-winning wildlife biologist Jim Fowler. Fowler may be best known as the veteran host of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom, and he has made many other TV appearances throughout his career to enthrall audiences with his tales of the animal kingdom. With Jim Fowler at the podium, guests are sure to be treated to thrilling stories and expert information from throughout his 50-plus year career.

What other events take place at “Sharks and Chablis?”

Some of the other activities that will be featured include:

  • Silent Auction
  • Live Sea Creatures
  • Live Music from “Travelin’ Light,” “Tuesday Supper Club,” and the “Jerry Thigpen Trio”
  • Interactive Educational Displays

Is there anything else I need to know about the event?

Each ticket includes a selection of hors d’oeuvres and a seafood dinner catered by local favorite, Posey’s Steam Room, as well as two drinks (beer and wine will be available). Additional drink tickets can be purchased at the event. Tickets can be purchased at the door, but there’s no need to wait! Order yours now, and you’ll get to enjoy a day of great food and fun while contributing to the protection of our region’s precious marine ecosystem.

Experience A Birder’s Paradise In Wakulla County

visitwakulldev on October 8, 2015

The stunning, white sand beaches and abundant sea life of the Florida gulf coast garner plenty of praise, and they deserve every bit of it. What’s less well-known is that Wakulla County, Florida is heaven on earth for amateur bird watchers and master ornithologists alike.

Owing to the area’s warm climate and diverse marine ecology, many different species of birds make their home in and near Wakulla County at various times throughout the year. These include the White-faced Ibis, the Snow Goose, Black Duck, Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Vermillion Flycatcher, and many, many more!

The natural habitats of Wakulla County offer incredible sightseeing opportunities for birding enthusiasts of any knowledge – and skill-level. Whether you prefer being led by an expert guide on an excursion, or you’d rather trek on your own path in the St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge or the Wakulla State Forest, you’ll feel right at home in the unique, natural beauty of Wakulla County. Start planning your visit today, and learn about all the amazing experiences waiting for you in Wakulla County.

Year-Round Birds

Much like many of the human residents of Florida’s gulf coast, many species of birds enjoy the frequent warm weather of the area throughout the seasons. You’re likely to spot and hear red-cockaded woodpeckers among the forest pine trees, and brown-headed nut hatches and Bachman’s sparrows thrive throughout the region as well.

Summer Birds

The many lakes and rivers dotting the landscape of the Florida panhandle are crucial to the survival of the birds in the area, especially during the hot and humid summers for which the state is famous. That’s why you’ll often see the distinct deep, black and white v-shape of the swallow-tailed kite soaring above the St. Mark’s River in the summertime. These are the birds after which flying kites were named. Highly sought purple gallinules can also be spotted during the hottest months of the year, especially in and around Headquarters Pond.

Winter Birds

The St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most beloved institutions in all of Wakulla County. Aside from being a beautiful place to see diverse wildlife, it demonstrates the county’s dedication to preserving these unique natural habitats which are so important to the region’s ecological system. It was originally created as a refuge for migratory ducks, and every year from November through February they still make their way to the refuge. Clubs come from neighboring states and as far away as Miami to witness these ducks on their remarkable journey.

Bald Eagles

Among the most majestic animals on earth and near the top of any serious birder’s wish list is the bald eagle. They typically begin their arrival in Wakulla County in September and begin to nest just before winter begins, remaining there until the spring thaw in the northern US.

More Fun in Wakulla County

Birding is just the beginning of what makes Wakulla County such a distinctive destination. Kayakers, hikers, and history buffs will all find memorable excursions during their Wakulla County visit. See what exciting adventures await you in the Natural Place to Be.

Find your accomodations here for an overnight trip to the area, or learn more about some of the best spots for birding here on our website!

Don’t Miss These Incredible Wakulla County Attractions

visitwakulldev on September 17, 2015

Everyone knows that Florida is famous for sunshine and beautiful nature, but why stop there when you could get off the beaten path and explore historic Wakulla County. Our area is as rich in nature as it is in history. Discover a more natural section of sunny Florida and set out for Wakulla County, your gateway to enriching historical sites, quaint lighthouses, and stunning natural scenery.

Immerse Yourself in History

New England often gets the spotlight for pre-Revolutionary war historical sites, but Florida is also teeming with landmarks that helped shape the origins of our country. Northern Florida has been home to the Apalachee Indians, Spanish Colonists, Caribbean Pirates, and early American colonists, and this mix plays intricately into the history of the area.

Begin your journey at the San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park. This Spanish fort was constructed in 1679, and the Spanish colonists used logs that were painted to resemble stone in order to stave off attacks. It was later occupied by the U.S. Army and then used as a Confederate base in the Civil War.

The path through history then continues at the St. Marks River Saltworks, which also played an important strategic role during the Civil War. Originally, men who were the highest salt producers were exempt from serving in the Confederate Army, but the Saltworks soon became a crucial target for the Union to weaken southern resources, resulting in a large-scale attack from land and sea!

Experience the Charm of Coastal Lighthouses

There’s nothing that makes you feel a connection to the ocean and the land quite like looking up at the silhouette of a majestic lighthouse on the shore, while the waves lap hypnotically nearby. A little-known fact about Wakulla County is that it is home to the second-oldest lighthouse in Florida and on the Gulf of Mexico. The St. Mark’s Lighthouse illuminates the path to the St. Marks River amidst the treacherous tree-lined coast and shoals. The light at the top has been shining perpetually since the end of the Civil War.

Walk on the Wild Side with Breathtaking Natural Wonders

Whether you’re an angler, avid bird-watcher, or nature photographer, you’ll find that scenic beauty and natural wildlife abound in the St. Mark’s River Watershed. Kayakers have 5.5 miles of trails available that take you from the river into the Gulf of Mexico, and camping is even permitted at certain points along the trail for the truly adventurous. You’ll have access to incredible views of the lighthouse and opportunities to view Florida’s abundant waterfowl population. And best of all, there are numerous accommodations and restaurants nearby so you’ll be close to the excitement. Learn more about the fun and educational opportunities available to you, and start planning your visit to Wakulla today!

1st Annual Wings & Wheels Fly-In

visitwakulldev on September 9, 2015

Something exciting is starting up in Wakulla County! The County Airport will be hosting the 1st Annual Wings & Wheels Fly-In event on September 19th. From skydivers to free plane rides, classic cars to live music, this event has all the hallmarks of a huge success for the local community. It is a great place for people of all ages to have a great time. Here’s what you need to know about this exciting event:

The 10k-Foot View

What: 1st Annual Wings & Wheels Air & Car Show
Where: Wakulla County Airport
When: September 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Why: Because it’s Going to be Amazing!
Cost: Totally FREE
View the Official Facebook Event Page

The Ground View

Imagine spending your Saturday watching skydivers, eating shaved ice cream, listening to live music, and maybe go up for a ride in a Cessna 172! The Wakulla Wings and Wheels event is going to have a long list of local vendors and clubs showing off planes, classic cars, entertaining, and offering raffles – all for free.

There will be paper airplane contests, helicopters, and maybe even some sailplanes to check out. Park down near US98 and catch a free tram shuttle to the hanger in a horse-drawn replica of the panacea trolley!

Vendor List:

So make plans to come out and see this new Wakulla tradition! People will be traveling around from near and far to be there, so if you can be there, it will be well worth your time. Hope to see you there!

Insider Tips for Tarpon Fishing

visitwakulldev on August 27, 2015

For anglers, the Tarpon is one of the most exciting kinds of fish to go after. Because Wakulla County is one of the best places to find them, we have put together some tips from local Tarpon fisherman, Bernie Sloan.

If you haven’t seen our previous blog on why Wakulla County is the best place for Tarpon fishing, be sure to check it out first.

Bait Fishing vs Fly Fishing

Basically, there are two types of Tarpon fishermen, i.e., the fly fisherman and the bait fisherman. Fly fishing has several advantages. One advantage is that the fly fisherman doesn’t have to deal with catching and handling bait—a sometimes messy and time-consuming activity.

All the fly fisherman has to do is cast his specially designed fly just in front of and a bit above the Tarpon’s nose, and most often even the most lethargic Tarpon can’t resist this morsel. But this is easier said than done, because fly fishing for Tarpon requires great skill with a fly rod, and the fly fisherman must be constantly ready to make his cast. Sometime this means waiting for hours for that one opportunity to place the fly in front of a passing Tarpon.

Quick Tips

The advantage for bait fishing is that almost anyone can do it. A very basic way to bait fish is to start with a medium heavy rod with a reel that will hold at least 150 yards of 40 pound monofilament line.

This line should be fastened to a 80 to 100 pound monofilament leader about 5 feet long. An important part of this rig is the 8/0 or 9/0 circle hook. The circle hook became known to fishermen a decade or so ago, and Tarpon fishermen were among the first users. This hook dramatically improved the catch rate for Tarpon. It is important that the circle hook be tied with a loop knot.

A hungry Tarpon will bite almost anything. Bait fishermen use either live bait under a float or dead bait on the bottom. For live bait, 5 or 6 inch Pinfish or a Gulf Menhaden are excellent.

What to Do When You’re There

Once you have located a place where Tarpon are likely to be, or better yet, you have seen Tarpon near your boat, simply float your bait out about 30 or 40 yards, place the rod in a rod holder and wait. At the same time, you can put dead bait (Mullet or Menhaden) on the bottom as far as you can cast them from the boat. No special weights, etc., are needed, just the dead bait on a hook.

When the Tarpon bites, you will know. Hang on, and try not to panic.

It is best to use a guide when you are either fishing in a new area or for an unfamiliar species. You can be successful fishing for Tarpon by using some of the techniques mentioned above, but it will probably take you more time and your chances for success are not as great as they would be with a guide, and local guides are easy to find in Wakulla County.

At the end of the day, Wakulla County waters have plenty of Tarpon ready to be caught, so it might be best to make a weekend trip out of it and take your time enjoying what the area has to offer. Be sure to download our visitor’s guide and keep an eye out for more great events coming.

Tarpon Fishing in Wakulla County

visitwakulldev on August 18, 2015

The Tarpon (megalops atlanticus) is one of the most exciting game animals in the world. The thrill of having a 5 foot, 100 pound fish come rocketing out of the water in a spectacular series of leaps is an experience no angler ever forgets. Making this event even more thrilling is that often the strike is quite near the shore, sometimes with pine trees in the background. Having an animal this large, this beautiful, and this violent strike your bait in shallow water is stunning.

Why Wakulla County

Wakulla County is a great place to fish for Tarpon. The adults of this species are migratory, and they begin to arrive in this area in late spring and continue to arrive during the summer months. There are juvenile Tarpon that live here year-round. These juveniles range in size from their larval stage to a length of about 42 inches. Adult Tarpon in this area may be as long as 72 inches plus. Tarpon fishermen use a formula in which the ratio of a Tarpon’s length and girth gives a reliable estimate of the fish’s weight.

Where Tarpon Like to Go

Perhaps it would be more accurate to say that one hunts for Tarpon rather than fishes for them. It is a sight fishing game. As with other game species, Tarpon have places they like to go, and the Tarpon fisherman knows where these places are. There is no great mystery here, because Tarpon are constantly on the move and they quite often follow familiar paths or tracks, most often quite near the shore.

Especially in a place like Wakulla County where there are numerous creeks, rivers, and bays, Tarpon like to swim along these crooked shorelines as close as 10 to 50 yards. Tarpon tend to swim nearer the shore when the tide is rising and the impetus of the tide flow brings them in a bit closer.

Knowing What to Look For

The Tarpon is the oldest bony fish, and over the eons it has developed a rudimentary lung which allows it to thrive in both salt and fresh water – also in water with low oxygen content. Perhaps because of this rudimentary lung, Tarpon come to the surface quite often, and fishermen learn to look for the tell-tale “twin fin” pattern that just breaks the water. These two fins are the Tarpon’s dorsal fin and tail, and this pattern helps distinguish a Tarpon from other fishes such as Sharks.

Keep an eye out for another upcoming blog on insider tips for Tarpon fishing in Wakulla County from local fisherman Bernie Sloan, and be sure to download our visitor’s guide to see what other things you can do while you’re here. In addition to being a great scalloping location, Wakulla County also offers a wide range of nature-based activities that make it the perfect place to come and enjoy the great outdoors.

Kayak Wakulla – Ideal for Nature Lovers

visitwakulldev on August 6, 2015

Summer is in full swing, and with it comes perfect kayaking weather. Whether you enjoy kayak fishing or relaxing along one of the many rivers in the area, you will find your perfect adventure in the heart of nature in Wakulla County. We’ve put together some handy tips to make sure your next kayaking getaway is a success.

Where to Go

One of the hardest and most important decisions you will make on your kayak adventure is deciding where to go and what to do! We created a list of things for you to see and do in Wakulla County, so hopefully you can narrow down the selections down for the perfect memories.

  • Go kayak fishing for trout and redfish along the local inshore flats, bays, and sand bars.
  • Kayak down the Sopchoppy River 10-15 mile paddling trail, observing rich wildlife and tranquil scenery.
  • Take a peaceful eco-tour up or down the St. Mark River, enjoying the natural beauty of Wakulla County.
  • Travel down the scenic Wakulla River, fed by the world-famous Wakulla Springs and look for manatees.
  • Spot for osprey, swallowtail kites, herons, and other wildlife while paddling one of the two loops in Ochlockonee River State Park.
  • Enjoy the Lower Ochlockonee River paddling trail, a 62-mile trail winding through the Apalachicola National Forest.

Essentials for Kayaking

Whether you’re planning on renting equipment from one of the many establishments nearby, or if you brought your own gear, there are some important items to remember you bring along before you head out into the water.

  • Life Jacket or other Personal Floatation Device (PFD)
  • Kayak & Paddle
  • Sprayskirt (Depending on the Type of Kayak)
  • First Aid Kit
  • Map or GPS
  • Sunscreen
  • Water Shoes or Sturdy Sandals
  • Sunglasses & Hat
  • Light, Quick-Drying Clothing
  • Extra Clothes to Change Into

See You There! You deserve to relax and unwind in an environment with rich and tranquil nature. We hope to see you and your family out on one of our great rivers, enjoying the calm nature of our beautiful county. Don’t forget to check out our free visitor’s guide for other vacation ideas

The Rivers & Beaches of Wakulla County

visitwakulldev on July 23, 2015

Situated on the Gulf Coast is one of Florida’s best hidden treasures. The rivers and beaches of Wakulla County provide an abundance relaxing and adventurous activities, including boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, scalloping, and snorkeling. The pristine and natural water makes for one of the best destinations for any kind of vacation.

What Makes Wakulla a Must-See Location?

Escaping to beaches and waterways that are natural and fresh is the best way to cool off and relax over the summer. Far away from the thick city air, Wakulla County provides an easy environment for countless water activities in the heart of unspoiled and fresh nature. The area is devoted to maintaining a natural setting and its rivers, beaches, and springs attract people from all over Florida, as well as neighboring states.

Among the many activities to enjoy, here are some of the top spots to see while you’re visiting:

  • Wakulla Beach: This small beach is located at the end of Wakulla Beach Road and is far from average. Wakulla Beach is part of the St. Marks National Refuge, which means this beautiful beach is surrounded by cabbage palms and salt marsh grass. It also features a gentle shoreline, which makes it a perfect location for launching small boats, canoes, or kayaks.
  • Ochlockonee River: Not only is the Ochlockonee River one of Wakulla County’s most popular treasures, it is also home to many threatened kinds of wildlife, including the wood stork, orange azalea, and the Atlantic sturgeon. Enjoy skiing, canoeing, or fishing for sea trout, redfish, or largemouth bass in the scenic and relaxing water.
  • Wakulla Springs: One of the most popular locations in Wakulla is this amazing crystal clear springs. It also just happens to be the deepest and longest freshwater springs in the world. The 69 degree water is refreshing and rejuvenating, especially when during the hot summer months. Those with an adventurous bend will most likely enjoy a jump from the 22 foot dive/observation tower located at Wakulla Springs State Park. Those who aren’t quite so daring can relax in the shade of ancient cypress trees, which stand regally alongside the spring, or enjoy a pleasant swim in the cool water.
  • Shell Point Beach: This unique beach is located on the northern edge of Apalachee Bay and is accessed via Spring Creek Highway. Shell Point Beach is a dream come true for the nature lover. As you walk along this unspoiled beach, you will likely see dolphins and other coastal wildlife. You also won’t find a prettier sunset in all of Wakulla County that the ones seen from this beach. Finally, it is the perfect location for windsurfing, boating, sailing, kayaking, beachcombing, fishing, hiking, bicycling and much more.
  • Sopchoppy River: This natural blackwater river runs 47 miles and starts in the wetlands of the Apalachicola National Forest. From kayaking to canoeing, the upper part of this river is one of the best ways to experience the true richness of the natural wilderness of Florida. Winding through a canopy of trees, the calm breeze is an unbeatable and magical experience.
  • Mashes Sands: Relax on a secluded beach in a simple park. Overlooking the mouth of the Ochlockonee River, Mashes Sands has tranquil shallow waters that are perfect for families and nature lovers. This paradise includes quiet tidal marsh pools, a fishing pier, and a boat ramp. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, nature photography, kayaking, boating, and fishing.

The natural environment of Wakulla County is something you need to experience for yourself. It has everything a nature lover could ever hope to find in a vacation destination. Its natural beaches and clear springs and rivers make it an ideal location to enjoy all kinds of activities, ranging from mild to downright daring. Find a preplanned trip itinerary or download the visitors guide to begin planning your trip today!