Exploring Walton County’s Black Creek and Mitchell River

July 14, 2020

Boating along adjacent waterways provide a for laid back day up the creek

Cypress and juniper trees along with saw palmetto line the banks of the Mitchell River.
Cypress and juniper trees along with saw palmetto line the banks of the Mitchell River.

Accessible from either the Choctawhatchee Bay or one of several boat ramps off of CR 3280 such as Black Creek Lodge, Black Creek and the Mitchell River are two waterways that offer the perfect opportunity to explore nature, fish or bird watch.

An osprey perched on top of a dead cypress tree.
An osprey perched on top of a dead cypress tree.

Cypress and juniper trees hang lazily over the water, and the tall cypress provides the perfect perch for wetland raptors such as osprey and swallow-tailed kites.  They are often seen scanning the water from above looking for their next meal.

A large variety of flowers bloom along the banks during the spring and summer, and include such species as spider lilies, pickerelweed, water lilies and trumpet creepers.

Makeshift campsites scattered along the raised banks of the Mitchell River provide the perfect spot to picnic or camp. Over they years, locals have built shelters and barbecue areas, making these locations great places to pull your boat up and picnic or camp overnight.

There are many sloughs along the creek and river which provide quiet places to stop and get a closer look at the flora and fauna.

Locals are often seen on the weekends at their favorite fishing holes. A popular watering hole on Black Creek is The Outpost, which offers libations and live music on the weekends.

A journey along these waterways is sure to provide an interesting day of exploration, no matter what your penchant.  Click here for map