The Rich History of Wakulla

visitwakulldev on March 10, 2023

Being surrounded by a rich, lustrous history in such a beautiful place is the essence of Wakulla County. In 1843, Wakulla was founded and established by Florida legislation making Wakulla the 23rd county in the state. With fun being in our nature, Wakulla was founded.

From our rivers and forest to our unique festivals and events, Wakulla has so much to offer. In honor of Wakulla’s birthday celebration this month, let’s continue to make memories with family and friends while taking a look back at the past along our trails and at our gatherings.

Trails Full of History

The Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State TrailIf you’re enjoying the illustrious trails, you’ve officially arrived with miles to explore during your time in Wakulla County. Our hiking, paddling, and biking trails have much more to offer. The Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail was the first paved rail-trail in the state, following a 16-mile[1] stretch along a former railroad route that was used to transport goods to waiting ships in Port Leon (now St. Marks). You can drop into the trail at the Wakulla Station Trailhead on Woodville Highway, where there’s water, shelter, and restrooms. Don’t forget to stop off the trails and enjoy the scenic nature, bird watching, and delicious food we have to offer.

St. Mark’s Lighthouse

St. Marks LighthouseLet us shine some light on the beautiful St. Marks Lighthouse. In the year 1830, the St. Marks Lighthouse was placed in service, by the U.S. Government[2] this 82-foot beauty is covered in limestone that was quarried by the Spanish during the early 1800s. Legend has it, the limestone was sourced from the ruins of Fort San Marcos de Apalachee[3]. The St. Marks Lighthouse is now situated within the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, where there are more than 83,000[4] acres of public land to explore. Although the Lighthouse no longer guides sailors of the Apalachee Bay, it does serve as a beautiful historic landmark with a history that dates back hundreds of years. So, the next time you look out, remember this lighthouse has a very unique story to tell.

Wakulla Springs Lodge

Take a step back in time to the 1930’s and stay at the Wakulla Springs Lodge. Much of the architecture at the Lodge has been restored to showcase its original early 1900’s condition. The Lodge is home to the world’s largest marble soda fountain and an original art deco style elevator. You can enjoy delicious meals at the Edward Ball Dining Room and one of a kind Root Beer Floats from the marble soda fountain bar. All while enjoying a view of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world!

Our Historic Courthouse

The Old Wakulla County CourthouseThe Old Wakulla County Courthouse was constructed in 1894 in Crawfordville, Florida. This building served as the primary Courthouse for Wakulla County until 1948, when the current Courthouse was constructed. This wooden building served as the Wakulla County Courthouse, Wakulla County Public Library, and now serves as the Chamber of Commerce office building. When you visit the Historic Courthouse, one of the first things you will notice is a mullet weathervane. Court records show that in the late 1800’s Wakulla County Judge R. Don McLeod ruled a mullet is not a fish, but rather a bird due to having a gizzard[5]. In addition to the unique weathervane, this is one of the only wooden courthouse structures remaining in the State of Florida. Visiting the Wakulla County Historic Courthouse will take you back in time to the early years of Wakulla County and Florida History.

It’s easy to get lost in the beauty and awe of Wakulla, but with so much rich history to explore, why not seek out the gloriousness of what Wakulla County has to offer? When you’re here, you’ll find a close-knit community and endless options for exploration. With so many places to stay, things to do, and places to eat, you’ll leave already planning your next trip back.

[1] Florida State Parks. (n.d.). Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail. Florida State Parks. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/tallahassee-st-marks-historic-railroad-state-trail

[2] US Fish & Wildlife. (n.d.). Historic St. Marks Lighthouse: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. FWS.gov. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from https://www.fws.gov/refuge/st-marks/historic-st-marks-lighthouse.

[3] Friends of St. Marks Wildlife Refuge. (n.d.). The St. Marks Lighthouse A National Historic Landmark. Friends of St. Marks Wildlife Refuge. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from https://www.stmarksrefuge.org/lh-icon

[4] US Fish & Wildlife. (n.d.). Historic St. Marks Lighthouse: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. FWS.gov. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from https://www.fws.gov/refuge/st-marks/historic-st-marks-lighthouse.

[5] Arkad. (2015, February 5). J. Harold Thurmond & Judge Mike Carter Share Wakulla County’s Rich History. Wakulla County Historical Society. Retrieved March 9, 2023, from https://wakullahistoricalsociety.wordpress.com/2015/02/05/j-harold-thurmond-judge-mike-carter-share-wakulla-countys-rich-history/

5 Reasons to Make Wakulla County Your Spring Break Destination

visitwakulldev on February 9, 2023

Imagine your perfect Spring Break vacation… you’re surrounded by nature, waking up to beautiful bird songs, paddling down a trail, eating the best seafood Florida has to offer, and watching a gorgeous sunset with your family. This dream vacation is waiting for you. In Wakulla County, fun is in our nature.

Located in the groove of the Florida panhandle, Wakulla is the hidden gem of the Big Bend region. A visit to Wakulla is every nature lover’s dream, a place with everything imaginable to give you the time of your life in the great outdoors. Here are our top 5 reasons to visit Wakulla County this year, making unforgettable memories for the entire family.

1. Adventures on the Water

If you’re drawn to the water, the possibilities are endless in Wakulla! With eight full-service marinas around the area, you can spend the day admiring the coastline, paddling or kayaking, or casting your line in the open waters. If you’ve got a ride of your own, take your pick of over 13 boat ramps to kick off your adventure on the Wakulla waters.

2. Fishing with Friends

Don’t have your own ride? No worries! Wakulla is full of all-inclusive fishing charters to guarantee the best fishing experience. Shell Island Fish Camp & Marina has some of the best professional Captains in the region to lead you, and Fightin’ Bottom Charters caters your excursion to the fish you want to catch (and eat!). The brackish areas also allow for fishing on the banks if you’d prefer to fish from land. There are so many options to choose from, your biggest issue will be finding it impossible to pick one! Fresh AND saltwater anglers unite here in Wakulla County.

3. Wildlife Watching

Miles and miles of trails run through Wakulla County. From regular nature trails to extended hiking ones, they all have beautiful and unique wildlife in common. St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and the Ochlockonee River State Park are known for their winged friends, and what better way to start your day than with a peaceful and scenic walk, challenging hike, or relaxing bike ride while being serenaded by songbirds? If you’re lucky, you might even run into Pinky, Wakulla County’s beloved flamingo!

Blue Heron holding fish in mouth

4. Seafood and More

Ditch the chains! Hidden gem towns like Wakulla are known for having the best local fare. Wakulla is full of locally-owned restaurants, with a wide variety of cuisine that’ll give everyone in your group plenty of tasty options. From true southern BBQ to fresh sea-to-table seafood, you’ll always have somewhere to eat that’s unique to your vacation destination.

5. Home Away from Home

Sometimes the hardest part of a trip is simply leaving the house, but in Wakulla, you’ll find a close-knit community and small-town vibe that will make you feel right at home. If you’ve brought your home on wheels, there are several RV resorts with full accommodations, amenities, and gorgeous scenery. If you prefer more traditional lodging, we have cozy inns, classic hotels, and other renowned lodging open to provide you with a safe and relaxing stay during your visit.

Lighthouse on beach with sunset in background

Rediscover your sense of wonder and make this spring break one to remember. Start planning the trip of your dreams today by clicking the button below.

Plan Your Trip Today

2023 Scalloping Season Guide

visitwakulldev on January 31, 2023

Every summer, residents and visitors gather across the shores of Wakulla County to harvest delicious bay scallops and beat the heat on the Gulf of Mexico. Here is what you need to know to get started on planning your own scalloping trip.

2023 Scalloping Season Basics

The 2023 scalloping season for the shores of Wakulla County is open from July 1 to September 24, 2023. This season applies to all recreational harvesting of bay scallops in these waters.

Catching bay scallops is simple and fun, and the whole family can partake as long as everyone practices safety recommendations and adheres to the legal requirements. The best place to look for bay scallops is near the bottom of seagrass beds where the sandy part of the ocean floor butts up against the grassier areas. Some scalloping areas may be reachable on foot, while others require you to take a boat slightly offshore.

Wakulla County Scalloping Legal Requirements

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission maintains strict scalloping practices for the enjoyment of everyone and the preservation of this important natural resource. First, it’s important to note that harvesters between the ages of 16 and 65 are required to have a valid Florida fishing license on them while collecting scallops.

The bag limit is 2 gallons of whole scallops (in the shell), or 1 pint of scallop meat, per person per day. In addition, you may not keep more than 10 gallons of whole scallops or 1/2 gallon of scallop meat aboard any vessel at any time. It’s considered wise to only keep scallops that are 1.5 inches to 2 inches in size, both because they are generally large enough to eat, and it allows the smaller specimens more time to grow.

Preparing Your Fresh Catch

Bay scallops are as delicious as they are versatile, and enjoying a meal of freshly prepared scallops is one of the true pleasures of harvesting them. Simply sautée them in butter and garlic and serve with pasta and a generous garnish of herbs to create a memorable summer dinner. Bay scallops also make great ceviche when cured in citrus juice and refrigerated for 6 to 8 hours, and then added to accompaniments such as chopped tomato, onion, jalapeno, and olives.

Making the Most of Your Scalloping Excursion

Some common items that you may need for scalloping include a swim mask, swim fins, snorkel, and a mesh bag for holding your catch. Keep in mind that you are required by law to display a divers flag when snorkelers are in the water. Visit one of our many marine supply stores to get outfitted for your trip, and discover how many more incredible fishing opportunities await you in the waters of Wakulla County.

Download the Scalloping Guide to Wakulla County

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Christmas in Wakulla

visitwakulldev on November 23, 2022

Get in the holiday spirit with these Christmas events in Wakulla County!

Wakulla County is hosting events for the whole family throughout the month of December to boost holiday spirits leading up to Christmas! To kick off the festivities is Wakulla County Sheriff Office’s Christmas in the Park. Join us at the community center in Crawfordville on December 2, 2022, from 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. for a Christmas in the Park full of fun activities and a Santa for pictures. Then, we’ll keep the good times rolling with Waterfronts Christmas in Panacea the next day on December 3, 2022 from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. Join us in Panacea Plaza for food, games, and a visit from Santa to make sure he’s got all of your wish-list gifts! Later that night the fun will continue with a car show, corn hole tournament, craft vendors at the community garden, and the Parade of Lights beginning at 6 p.m.

Christmas wreath around light pole with palm fronds and sunset in background

Holiday spirits continue to soar—plan for a day full of Christmas fun with two events on December 10, 2022! Head on out to Sopchoppy Depot Park from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. for our annual Christmas in Sopchoppy celebration to ​​enjoy local arts and crafts retailers with seasonal merchandise, food vendors, children’s games and activities, a Santa and live Christmas music. The community in St. Marks will be joining in on the festivities with the annual Golf Cart Parade. Bring the whole family to grab some cookies and cider, and settle in to watch the dazzling parade of golf carts decked out in Christmas glam.

For more information on specific times and locations, visit our community events calendar at https://www.visitwakulla.com/events/.

From all of us here at Wakulla County, we’re wishing you and your families the happiest of holiday seasons.

Hunting Season 2024-2025

visitwakulldev on October 19, 2022

With hunting season upon us, we want to remind anyone who plans on going hunting of this season’s dates and species available. All wild game can only be hunted at certain times of year, in specific zones, with certain methods of take, and some also have bag limits. Make sure you are aware and up to date on all this information before you head out there!

Wakulla County is on the border of Zone C & D. Check with the FWC Zone Map to ensure you know what zone you will be hunting in.

Deer

Antlered Deer

Zone C
WeaponDates
ArcherySept. 14 – Oct. 13
CrossbowSept. 14 – Oct. 18
Muzzle Loading GunOct. 19 – Nov. 1
General GunNov. 2 – Jan. 19

Don’t forget about youth deer hunting weekend from October 26 – 27.

Zone D
WeaponDates
ArcheryOct. 26 – Nov. 27
CrossbowOct. 26 – Nov. 27, Dec. 2 – 6
Muzzle Loading GunNov. 28 – Dec. 1, Dec 14 – Feb. 23
General GunDec. 7 – 13, Feb. 24 – Mar. 2

Don’t forget about youth deer hunting weekend from Dec. 7 – 8.

Antlerless Deer

Zone C
WeaponDates
Archery & CrossbowSept. 14 – Oct. 13
Muzzle Loading Gun (DMU C5)Oct. 19 – 20
General Gun (DMU C1, DMU C4, and DMU C6)Nov. 22 – 25
General Gun (DMU C2 and DMU C3)Nov. 22 – 24
General Gun (DMU C5)Nov. 2 – 3, Nov. 16 – 17

Don’t forget about youth deer hunting weekend from Oct. 26 – 27.

Zone D
WeaponDates
Archery & Crossbow (DMU D1)Oct. 26 – Nov. 27
Archery (DMU D2)Oct. 26 – Nov. 27
Crossbow (DMU D2)Oct. 26 – Nov. 27, Dec. 2 – 6
Muzzle Loading Gun (DMU D2)Dec. 7 – 13, Feb. 24 – Mar. 2
General Gun (DMU D1)Nov. 30 – Dec. 1, Dec. 28 – 29
General Gun (DMU D2)Nov. 28 – Dec. 1, Dec. 14 – Feb 23

Don’t forget about youth deer hunting weekend from Dec. 7 – 8.

For more information on general gun regulations, bag limits, dog training season, youth deer hunt weekend, and more, visit the FWC deer calendar.

Turkey

This refers only to bearded and gobbler turkeys, and only includes fall season dates. The daily bag limit for turkeys is two, and the season possession limit is two for all seasons combined.

Zone C
WeaponDates
ArcherySept. 14 – Oct. 13
CrossbowSept. 14 – Oct. 18
Muzzle Loading GunOct. 19 – Nov. 1

Fall turkey season is November 2 – December 29.

Zone D
WeaponDates
ArcheryOct. 26 – Nov. 27
CrossbowOct. 26 – Nov. 27, Dec. 2 – 6
Muzzle Loading GunDec. 7 – 13

Fall turkey season is Nov. 28 -Dec. 1, Dec. 14 – Jan. 19.

Duck

Shooting hours are one half-hour before sunrise until sunset until otherwise noted. Hunters must have a $5 waterfowl permit and a $28.50 Federal duck stamp in addition to a license and migratory bird permit when hunting waterfowl. Migratory birds are permitted-only game – check FWC for bag and possession limits.

SpeciesDates
TealSept. 26 – 29
Wood DuckSept. 21 – 25
All VarietiesNov. 23 – Dec. 1, Dec. 7 – Jan. 26

Gray Squirrel & Quail

Gray squirrel season is open statewide from Nov. 9 through March 3, and quail season opens statewide from Nov. 9 through March 2. Both have daily bag limits of 12 and possession limits of 24.

Bobcat & Otter

Bobcat season is open statewide from Dec. 1 through March 31. Otter season also opens statewide on Dec. 1 but closes on March 1. There are no bag limits for either.

Rabbits, Wild Hogs, Raccoons, Opossums, Skunks, Nutrias, Beaver, & Coyotes

Any game listed above may be taken year-round. The only species limit is on rabbits, whose daily bag limit is 12, and possession limit is 24. For more information on zones, what methods of take are allowed, and other details necessary to hunt, please visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s full season calendar.

Thank you for your interest in Wakulla’s hunting season and good luck out there!

48th Annual Sopchoppy 4th of July

visitwakulldev on June 21, 2022

Join us in Sopchoppy for an Independence Day celebration that’s fun for the whole family.

Sopchoppy’s 4th of July event is back for its 48th year! Join us for a parade, performers, and more.

Started in 1973 by Bill Stephens, the City of Sopchoppy annually comes together with volunteers to put on a 4th of July celebration for the community that can be enjoyed by all. The day will start with a bang at 10:00 in the morning as the Bill Stephens Americana Parade, named for the celebration’s founder, makes its way through downtown Sopchoppy. Make your way to Rose Street to watch the one-of-a-kind parade go by.

Join us after the parade in Myron B. Hodge City Park, right on the beautiful Sopchoppy River. Music performances will take place throughout the day, along with arts and crafts booths, food, exhibits, and activities just for kids. Entertainment includes the “Take Two” Music Duo, Rockulla, DJ Butch, the Tobacco Rd Band, and more all kicking off at 11 A.M. There’s something for everyone to enjoy. Dogs are permitted as long as they’re on a leash and owners pick up after their pet. A donation of $2.00 is requested for entry.

At sunset, the fireworks display will begin. You won’t want to miss this, as the show will be reflected in the water of the river for an exciting and unique experience. Check out exactly when the sun is expected to set here.

Mark your calendars and make your way to Sopchoppy this July 4th!

Address: Myron B. Hodge City Park: 252 Park Avenue, Sopchoppy Florida 32358.

Contact: Call (850) 962-4611 or visit the official Facebook page for more information.

Rock the Dock on April 23-24

visitwakulldev on April 11, 2022

This year’s fishing tournament will be held in Woolley Park on April 23 and 24.

It’s o-fish-cial! The 12th Annual Rock the Dock Fishing Tournament is finally here! Reel your way to first place on April 23 and 24 at Woolley Park in Panacea, Florida.

All captains are required to attend the Captains’ Meeting at Woolley Park at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, April 22 to explain the rules of the tournament. Target weights will be announced during this meeting. A delicious dinner, a full cash bar, and spectacular entertainment by Tom & The Cats are sure to kick off the weekend with a bang.

The actual fishing takes place over two days. The competition begins on Saturday, April 23 at Woolley Park (the tournament’s official weigh-in station location) at 2:00 p.m. You must be in line with your fish by 6:00 p.m. The second part of the tournament will begin at noon on Sunday, April 24. You must be in line with your fish by 4:00 p.m. Payouts and jackpots vary based on division and type of fish being caught.

We will be raffling off a state-of-the-art 2022 Skeeter SX210 Bay Boat this year! Coast along our shores in style and comfort driven by the powerful Yamaha F150XB motor. The boat also comes with a premium aluminum trailer to make transporting and launching your prize down to the dock a breeze. The trailer is well suited to saltwater use and has a very low chance of rusting. Our prize package is valued at a whopping total of $49,995. No more than 400 tickets will be sold, so make sure to enter by purchasing your ticket ($100 each) as soon as possible!

Additional drawings will be held for SeaTow members, Lady Anglers, and Youth Anglers (age 15 and under). See specific details for each group here. The winners must be present to receive their prizes. The Walt Widener Memorial Sportsman’s Award drawing will be held on Sunday immediately after the final weigh-ins. It is open to all registered kayakers that are present. The winner must claim his $5,000 prize within five minutes of his name being called.

Good luck to all our anglers! May the best catch win.

20th Annual Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival

visitwakulldev on April 4, 2022

Take the Bait at the Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival and 5K Run

Join us at the annual Worm Gruntin’ Festival on April 9, 2022!

The annual Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival is incredibly excited to celebrate its twentieth anniversary this year! On Saturday, April 9, join us as we honor the local townspeople who made their living by grunting worms. These workers played a crucial role in raising our area’s fishing industry by attracting earthworms from the ground to be used as fishing bait. Gary Revell, a long-time Sopchoppy worm grunter, will be hosting an educational and entertaining demonstration of the process. Your little ones can test their newfound skills at the following Gruntin’ Contest!

The contest is only one of the wonderful events the festival has to offer. Show off your swing at our cornhole championship or participate in our hula hoop competition (hoops will be supplied, but feel free to bring your own)! While adults sample local brews at our first-ever beer garden, kids can enjoy the special children’s area near the Depot Museum. Families can check out nearly 100 arts and crafts vendors while listening to live music all day long! Make sure to satisfy your appetite at one of our many food stands before dancing the night away at the Worm Grunter’s Ball. The best part about the festival? Admission is completely free!

The annual 5K Race will be held at the same time as the other festivities. The race table and information booth will open at 7:00 a.m. on April 9 in downtown Sopchoppy (at the corner of Rose Street and Municipal Avenue); the race itself begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. Not a runner? No problem! Feel free to walk the trail and take in the gorgeous views of the town at your own pace. You can register for the race at runsignup.com.

We would like to thank our festival sponsors for making this event possible for the twentieth year. We appreciate your continued support and dedication to our community! We hope to see you on April 9. Get gruntin’!