In central Florida we have noticed an abundance of fresh water springs. Today we drove to nearby Silver Glen Springs in Ocala National Forest. It is a day-use only area, so there is no overnight camping.
It is a small slice of paradise. The water is aquamarine in color and clear. The grounds are shaded by live oaks draped with moss.
And we got lucky, A manatee was in the spring. You can see the GPS buoy attached to the manatee when you enlarge wither photo. Manatees are well protected and tracked.
And this boat captain knew where the fish were biting.
Silver Glen Spring is connected to the larger St. Johns River.
Next we drove to Orange City and Blue Spring State Park where 104 million gallons of water flow daily from the spring into the St. Johns River.
There is a bit of history here dating back to 1774 when British Colonial botanist John Bartram paddled into Blue Spring in 1774. But for me the really interesting history was the house and river docks built by former California gold miner Louis Thursby who became a successful citrus farmer and merchant. Thursby arrived in 1856 when he bought Blue Springs and 300 acres for $400.
The scene below is of the Blue Springs Run…
….which connects with the St. Johns River.
A neat day.
Stay tuned.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
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Wonderful photo of the manatee!
ReplyDeleteAnother great post George. The area is beautiful as are your pictures!
ReplyDeleteJohn
relaxedrush.blogspot.com
GEORGE: As always, I treasure your views. . . esp. through the lens, of your journeys. Nancy and I sojourned in West Florida two winters ago. . . enjoying the beautiful, clear springs from Bushnell up through the Panhandle. As we traveled west, we stayed on HWY 80 as much as was practical clear into So. California. We have spent much of this winter at our site in the SKP Jojoba Hills park here in Aguanga, CA. We've made quick sorties over into Arizona for a couple of missions projects for the Nomads and have just returned from a lively week at Nick's Gypsy Rally where its impossible NOT to have a great time. This has been our nineth Gypsy Rally and I truly believe that Nick and Terry are overtaking the Escapees with the quality and enjoyment factor of their rallys. They are about where the SKPs were a decade ago. . . and to us, thats a good thing. Its always a pleasure to hear from you. . . as always, oRV
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