SaturdaySaunter

Just south of Tallahassee lies a little historic state park waiting to be explored. San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park was established as a state park in 1964, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966, and is a National Historic Landmark and National Engineering Landmark.

The flags flying over San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park welcome you and are a reminder of those who came before you. Saunter along the self-guided .33 mile interpretive trail through the historic ruins. Look for today’s wild residents including pelicans, anhingas, cormorants, seagulls, ospreys, great blue herons, turtles, sea turtles, manatees, otters, squirrels, and more.

Be sure to make time to visit the museum where you will learn about the history and importance of San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park located on the Wakulla and St. Marks River junction. First settled by the Apalachee who lived in farming communities, the area later became a trading route. Over the years two military forts and a federal marine hospital were built. Hernando de Soto, Spanish explorers, Britains, pirates, Confederate soldiers, and General Andrew Jackson are just some of the people who have lived at San Marcos or occupied a fort.

Enjoy your meal in the picnic area complete with grills and tables.

For more information about this Historic State Park located in St. Marks, Wakulla County click here:

https://www.floridastateparks.org/…/san-marcos-de…

Photo Credit: Bobby Putnam

Big Tree Park is a part of the Spring Hammock Preserve and is located in Longwood. It is best known for “The Senator,” a 3500-year-old Bald Cypress tree that was named for Senator Moses O. Overstreet who donated the land. Unfortunately, “The Senator,” which stood 118 feet tall, burned down in 2012. It was the largest Bald Cypress Tree in the United States.

Pass under the big trees as you saunter along the boardwalk over the hydric hammock swamp. The boardwalk is less than 1/2 mile long out and back. Interpretive signs will awe you with information about “The Senator”. Learn about “The Phoenix,” a clone of “The Senator.” Admire the grandeur of “Lady Liberty,” a 2000-year-old Bald Cypress that stands 89 feet tall. Look for alligators, Florida box turtles, five-lined skinks, raccoons, squirrels, and bobcats. Listen for frogs, woodpeckers, and songbirds.

As a trailhead, Big Tree Park offers the opportunity for a longer stroll or bike ride on the Cross Seminole Trail through the forested wetlands of Spring Hammock Preserve. The Cross Seminole Trail is a part of the Florida National Scenic Trail.

Big Tree Park is open from 8 am until dusk. Spend some time at the playground with your kids. Restrooms are nearby. Bring your lunch or a snack to enjoy at one of the picnic tables.

Photo Credit: Dan Kon