The State of Florida is known worldwide for its natural resources and hospitable environment. In the range of 26 to 30 degrees north latitude on this planet, most land masses are barely inhabitable and devoid of water.
On the tropical edge, Florida is a lush land with forest, beaches, lakes and rivers. Unfortunately, in the 21st century many of these unique sites have fallen or are in the process of falling to development.
Fortunately, there are exceptions to the encroachment of Florida’s expanding population. The Wacissa River is an excellent example of Florida as it was.
There is a small park and boat ramp maintained by Jefferson County near the spring-fed headwaters of this river. Recently paved, there are parking spaces for eight vehicles towing a boat trailer, and additional spaces for other vehicles.
The boat ramp is suitable for shallow draft craft. Jon boats, canoes and kayaks, and similar watercraft can easily launch from this facility.
The park includes one covered picnic structure and additional concrete picnic table located under trees. There is a diving platform with a rope swing on a huge cypress tree and a small beach with white sand added for appearance sake.
There is a short pier between the beach and the boat launch channel. Anglers without a boat can use the structure for fishing, but it is more commonly used for sunbathing during the warm season.
Once the park is departed, all signs of humanity end (with the exception of fellow boaters). The river flows generally on a southeast heading, terminating in the Aucilla River after about 16 miles.
Water quality is excellent, especially on the north end of the river. The bottom is easily in view, particularly during dry months with little or no rain.
Multiple springs contribute cold, clear water to the shallow river in its first mile and a half. Notable is the Blue Hole about a mile south of the landing and easily accessible by boat.
A floating platform is located in the spring basin, and a crude rope swing is available for those who wish to test their confidence. Open water depth is about 40 feet at its deepest, but the spring cave descends to the Floridan aquifer.
Tiny marine fossils are a common on the sandy portion of the bottom between expanses of eel grass and other aquatic plants. Unfortunately, there is hydrilla and other exotic invasive plants which have displaced the native flora.
Wildlife is plentiful. Alligators and turtles leisurely bask on logs and the muddy shore under the baking sun. Egrets, anhingas, ospreys and many other birds, some residential and other migratory, use the native environment.
The foliage and flowers change with the season which gives the river a continuing seasonal transition from one tone to the next. Even in winter when the deciduous trees have lost their leaves, the pines and cypress trees keep the background green.
Curiously, the timeless quality is an illusion. In the early 1930’s much of the area was clear cut by timber companies. Fortunately, the damage was recognized and resulted in a commitment to leave the area natural thereafter.
The following nine decades has restored much of the area, and hopefully it will remain so for future generations. Take pictures and leave only foot prints.
How To Get There
From the blinking light in Wacissa, head south on Florida 59. When the road veers to the right, remain on the straight portion which will terminate in the parking lot next to the boat landing and beach.
What to Expect At the blinking light in Wacissa there are two convenience stores and the post office. After departing Florida 59 which veers to the right, there are several canoe and kayak rental businesses. No other retail services are offered in the immediate area.
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