Day: September 28, 2016

Today we journeyed to the “Okefenokee Swamp” in Georgia.  It is a shallow, 438,000-acre, peat-filled wetland straddling the Georgia-Florida line.  It is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia and is the largest “blackwater” swamp in North America.

Families settled on the edge of the Okefenokee as early as 1805.  They lived in log cabins, herded cattle, raised hogs, hunted and fished and gardened.

We took a ride through the swamp on a boat which wasn’t much bigger than a row boat!  A little intimidating to say the least.  The swamp was covered in green vegetation which is called “duck weed”.

There are MANY cypress trees …. two varieties  being “pond cypress” and “bald cypress”.  The bald cypress have “knees” that grow out from the ground next to them.  Early botanists thought their purpose was to allow the root system access to air since new trees do not grow from these knees.

We also took a train ride through the area …

An exhibit we attended allowed us to hold and observe snakes, box turtles and a one-year old alligator.

Now, you may ask, “did you see any alligators”?  Yes, LOTS !!

Speckles & Mel came with us but hid for most of the day as they did not like the gators!

                           It was an interesting and informative day and ,,,

Thank you St Mary’s KOA for the free daily breakfast of pancakes, waffles, orange juice and coffee.  What better way to start a day of exploring.

We first traveled to St Mary’s Waterfront Park.  In the late 1800s, tall ships crowded the harbor as St Marys was the southernmost point of the US and a prime trading port for the America’s.  It is a beautiful area and lines the river’s shore.

We then drove to Fernadina Beach.  We wanted to visit some friends who live there; however, they are away on a cruise.  Another time …

From there, we went over to Amelia Island …. 13 miles of beautiful beaches, shops and eateries.  We walked along Seaside Park.

We actually waded in the “Atlantic” ocean which wasn’t as cold as expected to be!

At Seaside Park on Amelia Island 4 wheel drive vehicles can access the beach in limited areas.

So different than the Gulf shores of Florida, yet enjoyable to experience.

                                    Next stop ,,,, Swamps & gators !!