Eco adventure

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Coastal dune lake tour of Western Lake at Grayton Beach State Park Oct. 5

Come celebrate Coastal Dune Lake Appreciation month as our University of Florida’s Panhandle Outdoor Live team provides a guided walking tour of the nature trail surrounding Western Lake in Grayton Beach State Park. Join local Walton and Okaloosa County University of Florida Extension Agents to learn more about our globally rare coastal dune lakes, their history, surrounding ecosystems, and local protections. Walk the nature trail through coastal habitats including maritime hammocks, coastal scrub, salt marsh wetlands, and coastal forest. The...

Deer Lake restoration tour in Santa Rosa Beach Oct. 2

Come celebrate Coastal Dune Lake Week at the Deer Lake restoration site on Oct. 2, 2023 from 9 a.m. – 12 Noon. Learn more about ecosystem restoration efforts on coastal dune lakes in Walton County, Florida. The Atlanta Botanical Gardens will provide an informative tour of their restoration efforts within the Deer Lake watershed. The event is free with park fee admission, and the group will meet at Deer Lake State Park, 6350 East County Highway 30A Santa Rosa Beach,...

Civilian Conservation Corps played major role in formation of early Florida State Parks

Much of CCC’s efforts remain intact in Northwest Florida State Parks In the midst of the Great Depression, the Franklin D. Roosevelt administration secured the creation of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the spring of 1933. The program was intended to put unemployed men to work undertaking conservation work, including the restoration and recreational development of federal and state public lands. During the administration of the program, CCC enrollees throughout the country were credited with renewing the nation’s decimated forests by...

Roadside springs of northwest Florida

Northwest Florida boasts a large inventory of beautiful springs. With close to 40 in the Walton, Holmes, Washington and Bay counties, many are only accessible by paddling or by boat. There are a few available you can enjoy a family picnic and offer restroom facilities more suited for little ones. Here is a list of some great options in the Panhandle. Ponce de Leon Springs State Park in Holmes County Just outside the Walton County line is one of the...

Guided nature hike at Camp Helen State Park June 1

Enjoy a ranger-led nature hike at Camp Helen State Park on Thursday, June 1, 2023 from 10 – 11 a.m. Join in for a ranger-guided nature hike. Camp Helen boasts nine distinct natural communities throughout the park with varied flora and fauna. Learn about our rare coastal dune lake, Lake Powell, as well as the park wildlife. Hike is suitable for all ages. Dress for the weather; water and bug spray are recommended. The Friends of Camp Helen are excited to be open...

Guided kayak tour at Rocky Bayou State Park April 21

Meet the local wildlife and enjoy scenic views of the bayou on an interpretive guided tour with Park Ranger Bruce on Friday, April 21, 2023 at 8:30 a.m. Learn about the park’s history, nature and wildlife while paddling down the bayou. Kayaks, life vest, whistles and paddles will be provided starting at $40.00 per person or bring your own kayak for $15.00. Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Interpretive Kayak Tour is a beginner level tour, that will last approximately...

Kayak, SUP rental season opens at Camp Helen State Park

Camp Helen State Park offers kayak rentals, adding to the already wide range of park activities. Sponsored by the Friends of Camp Helen, kayak and SUP rentals on Lake Powell have begun for the season. The Friends of Camp Helen State Park is a not-for-profit Citizens Support Organization dedicated to preserving, maintaining and improving the park through volunteer projects, community events and fundraising. Their most recent projects include The Americana Concert series, Movies and More, first Saturday history tours, International...