Nature

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Ranger led nature hike at Camp Helen State Park July 6

Enjoy a ranger-led nature hike at Camp Helen State Park on Thursday, July 6, 2023 from 10 – 11 a.m. Join in for a ranger-guided nature hike. Camp Helen boasts nine distinct natural communities throughout the park with varied flora and fauna. Learn about our rare coastal dune lake, Lake Powell, as well as the park wildlife. Hike is suitable for all ages. Dress for the weather; water and bug spray are recommended. The Friends of Camp Helen are excited to be open...

Roadside springs of northwest Florida

Northwest Florida boasts a large inventory of beautiful springs. With close to 40 in the Walton, Holmes, Washington and Bay counties, many are only accessible by paddling or by boat. There are a few available you can enjoy a family picnic and offer restroom facilities more suited for little ones. Here is a list of some great options in the Panhandle. Ponce de Leon Springs State Park in Holmes County Just outside the Walton County line is one of the...

Guided plant walk at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park June 19

You’re invited to a plant identification walk at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park on the third Monday of the month. The walk starts at 9:00 am at tram stop #2, and is led by Bill Kuenstler, Master Gardener and Master Naturalist. Learn about the many native plants at the park. Driving Directions Located in Santa Rosa Beach, the park is located 1/4 south of U.S. Hwy 98 on western end of Scenic Hwy. 30A.  ::MAP:...

Guided plant walk at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park May 15

You’re invited to a plant identification walk at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park on the third Monday of the month. The walk starts at 9:00 am at tram stop #2, and is led by Bill Kuenstler, Master Gardener and Master Naturalist. Learn about the many native plants at the park. Driving Directions Located in Santa Rosa Beach, the park is located 1/4 south of U.S. Hwy 98 on western end of Scenic Hwy. 30A.  ::MAP:...

Fun facts about the northern mockingbird

There’s more to this flying copycat than meets the eye . . . or ear. The Northern Mockingbird is one of North America’s most beloved mimics. The skilled singer has also become inextricable from American popular culture, providing inspiration for the fictional “Mockingjay” of the Hunger Games franchise to being a central theme in the iconic novel To Kill a Mockingbird. John James Audubon was a fan of the mocker as well. Here are some facts you might not have known about this American classic. There...