Me, Tarzan: You, Jane (April 24: Day 52--Wakulla Springs, FL)

The Shell Station

Our last rest day was spent in Wakulla Springs, Fl--no television, no internet, limited cell service, no laundry....it truly was a day of rest.  Wakulla Springs is part of the Florida State Park system and is the world's largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. The tunnel system of the underground spring travels through eroded limestone passages; the ground throughout Florida is riddled with these springs and caravans. Scientist think they are all interconnected. Bones of mastodons and other prehistoric creatures have been found deep underground within the spring system, leading to the belief that at some time in its history, Florida was very dry, and the animals traveled into these caves, caravans and passageways in search of water. The water in the spring above ground is crystal clear, and one can see to the bottom of most of the river.  It is full of wildlife, including alligators that hang around the swim hole. Pam was taking a picture of the 'Beware of Alligator' sign, not realizing that 15 feet away, a big old gator was snoozing in the sun. She chose not to swim.......

Most of you have seen Wakulla Springs on TV but not even realized it.  It was the location for The Creature From the Black Lagoon and several Tarzan movies.  Karen, Frankie and I watched some of The Creature on the hotel's only TV, located in the lobby, and were quite disruptive to our tranquil surroundings with our laughter and mirth.  It was as silly today as it was when we saw it as youngsters.

Aside from watching the movie and swimming, we were able to go on a boat tour of the river, observing the wildlife.  It was beautiful and it was rather cool to recognize the terrain that we had just seen in the movie.

The Shell Station

Snowy Egret and Babies 

Frightened Bird

One of Many Gators

Yellow-Crested ?? on nest

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BOO

Enjoy!

39 miles