Florida Biting Bugs
If you hike around Florida you will get bitten by something, that is a given! I can tell you that I’ve had some unpleasant times fighting hordes of mosquitoes, the intense bite of the Florida yellow fly, the horrible itching from chiggers, trying to extract a tick from behind my arm and then that bite which I have no idea where it came from.
I cannot tell you which one of the group is the worst, but I now try and prepare for all of them. I once entered a marsh area near the St. Johns River to do some GEOCaching and before I knew it I was litterly covered with mosquitoes. They where so dense that the attached me everywhere, even biting me through my clothes. I had on my deet, but that didn’t stop them, they smelled blood and that was that! I found my caches and got out of there in a hurry. Needless to say, my body was covered in welts. Most of the time in the wet months I run across some bad patches, but this was more than a bad patch, it was pure hell! I now have a mosquito net and 95% deet handy for those types of ambush.
One lesson I learned the hard way was protect yourself from the Florida Chigger. This mite, which you can not see, leaves the most itchy welts! The itch is so intense it is beyond description. If you get enough of them and you don’t treat them in someway, you will scratch your skin raw. Since that experience I now do this before any hike - tuck my pants into my socks and spray my socks and boots with 25% deet. Hopefully this will discourage them from crawling onto my boots and than up my leg. There are a number of suggest remedies for the bites if you get them, I use anti-itch lotion containing Pramoxine HCI. The main thing is, don’t let them get to you.
Sept - I was in the wrong spot at the wrong time as far as chiggers are concerned. It seemed that while out hiking/GEOCaching I entered the wrong area (suspect a tall grass area) and picked up a mess of chiggers. I didn't realize my problem until the next morning, when my ankles and legs started itching like crazy. The dreaded red, itchy welts started appearing. I couldn't beleive how many welts I had. I used my itch cream with limited success. I then had to pull out more items from the chigger bag because the welts and itching started driving me crazy. I used hydrogen peroxide to help with infections, nail polish to block some of the bad ones and white vinegar to try and kill the itching. It seems the itching was curtailed somewhat, but the welts kept showing up (this happens with chiggers). I can only assume I didn't spray enough Deet on my socks and pants to protect myself. My friend evidently did protect himself better because he only had a couple of welts. I can only tell you that it is pure misery, again I warn you to protect yourself.
I have been unlucky a few times to run into an area with a high concentration of Florida Yellow Flies. This is a type of horse fly that really knows how to bite! Like all horse flies, they are fast to the bite. My only defense against them again is deet. It is pure hell having those things looking for an exposed spot to bite you.
My most unhappy moments are when I discover one or more ticks on my body after a hike. It seems they show up in the worst spots. I don’t like to assign tick "pulling" to family, so I try and do it myself. I ordered a special tick removing "tool" to assist me with the operation. Ticks can be very bad so make sure you remove them correctly as not to invite an infection. If it is deep and mean, you might even consider going to a doctor to do it. Again, with these the best offense is a good defense. I now do this before any hike - tuck my pants into my socks and spray my socks and boots with 25% deet. Always save the extracted tick in a jar in the refrigerator for a week or so just in case of a serious infection - they can use the dead tick to see if it was infected with something.
Finally, there is that bite you never felt, but a major welt has appeared. It could be just a fire ant or it could be from one of the deadly spiders lurking out there. Always border on the side of caution and watch the welt closely. If anything really strange seems to be happening, see your doctor!
St Johns River Area Hiking
This entry is about some of the hiking I have done along the banks and open areas on the St Johns River from RT50 down as far as Lake Winder in Viera. I have been able to find ways into many areas along the river to do some hiking, looking and photographing. I have submitted a mess of pictures to Google Earth and also have assembled a few of my hikes in WIKILOC. I have provided links to these items at the bottom of this document. At times I have gone in with friends, at other times I have hiked the areas alone. I normally hike the areas in the winter, during the dry season. At some of the places I will mention you can only get to after a "burn", either manmade or by nature. The grass can get so thick that you cannot walk through it. If you attempt to access some of these areas in wet conditions, you will find it very uncomfortable - I have done it, but it really wasn’t that much fun. My main concern during the winter months is hunters, it seems that the SJRWMD has the most liberal hunting policies of any area around here. I always take extreme caution when hiking these areas, wearing a very bright orange baseball cap and bright clothes most of the time. It seems a lot of hunters come in from the river, so just be careful as you get closer to the river areas. I am not trying to put any fear in you; I just want everyone to be careful. Many areas have an array of cattle in them. Some people I hike with automatically show a fear for these beasts, I guess because they are pretty big. I have never been harassed by a cow, they are always a little more fearful of me than I am of them. With all that said, I must say, so far some of the prettiest and calming areas I’ve been to have been on the St Johns River. I love the views of the river and in many areas the cypress trees that dot the landscape. I have seen a vast array of wildlife, some domestic, while visiting the St Johns. Those included alligators, large variety of wading birds, sandpipers, songbirds, bald eagles, hawks, owls, vultures, deer, pigs and a few snakes. You will also come across some horses every so often and as I mentioned, quite a few cattle.
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St Johns River Below RT50
These are of some of my hikes into the river area just below RT50. This is what I found to be a very pretty area.
Details about the hikes below RT50 using numbers in above map
#1 - This hike started at parking area # 24 off Powerline Road in the Tosohatchee WMA. I headed north up to the Blues Head Mound on the right side. I then headed over to the Blues Head Mound and out through the grass using a cattle trail to the river. I then spent some time walking and enjoying that section of the river. On the way back I passed through the smaller mound next to Blues Head. There I found a bald eagles nest that was still occupied by an eaglet. The total hike was a little over 7 miles and it took a little over 5 hours. GPS Coords: 28 31.972N 80 55.975W
#2 - This hike started at parking area # 22 off Powerline Road in the Tosohatchee WMA. We went north up through the cypress forest that is located in the area just above James Creek. The creek and the cypress forest area was just about dry, so water wasn’t a problem. If it is the wet season I doubt this could be done. At one point we headed out to the river that has some of the nicest cypress trees around. We worked up the river and then headed back into the woods using an old road we located up there. We looped back down through the cypress forest to the parking lot. The watermarks from TS Fay on the trees were very impressive. The total hike was about 6.5 miles and it took about 5.25 hours. GPS Coords: 28 31.326N 80 55.076W
#3 - This hike started at parking area # 22 off Powerline Road in the Tosohatchee WMA. We headed out to the James Creek basin and then down it to what is Mud Lake. Both James Creek and Mud Lake were pretty dried up, so walking out to the river was no problem. This part of the river is nice, but certainly not the nicest section. As in all the areas we saw a variety of wildlife. The total hike was about 5.6 miles and it took about 5 hours. GPS Coords: 28 30.655N 80 54.110W
#4 - This hike started in the parking area for Canaveral Marsh off RT50. It was a very long hike. It took me along a large section of the river, over Paw Paw Mound and back to the parking area. I headed west along what is the blue blazed trail and then turned southwest staying on the blue trail. When I came to the Addison Canal I followed that down to the river. It then took me a little while to find dry cattle trail through the grass over to Paw Paw Mound. From there I looped back up to the parking area. The views of the river in this section are also very pretty, certainly worth the trip. This also is a dry season hike and preferably a winter hike as it is just about 99% in the sun. I saw a variety of wildlife as well as horses and a large amount of cattle. The total hike was about 9.7 miles and it took about 6 hours. GPS Coords: 28 31.228N 80 54.117W
#5 - This hike also started in the parking area for Canaveral Marsh off RT50. I headed west along what is the blue blazed trail and then turned southwest staying on the blue trail. When I came to the Addison Canal I headed west following it. The trail took me to the RV area that you can see from RT50. I followed the fence down into a mound area and then out near the river. This hike only goes near the river for a very short time. What is nice are the trails it takes you through the mound area. The trails are blazed, but at times hard to spot, so keep your eyes open. This also is a dry season hike and preferably a winter hike, as it can get pretty hot out there. I saw a variety of wildlife and got some nice wildflower pictures. The total hike was about 9.7 miles and it took about 5 hours. GPS Coords: 28 30.591N 80 52.266W
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St Johns River Below RT528
These are of some of my hikes into the river area just below RT528. This area is interesting and has some nice views, but it is not as pretty as the above hikes. In order to start the hikes you must enter Tosohatchee WMA using the Taylor Creek Road entrance and then drive down Fish Hole Road, using the underpass go under RT528 and then take the first left all the way to parking area #13
Details about the hikes below RT528 using numbers in above map
#1 (blue line) - as I mentioned, this hike starts at parking area #13 in the Tosohatchee WMA. I crossed the wooden bridge, heading west. I then headed south down around the pond in the map. You will then pickup a blazed orange horse trail (actually both horse and people, but the horse people blazed it, so I call it a horse trail) heading south. Once pretty far down you will use cattle trails to get you out to the river. This area is pretty flat and not the prettiest, but it is still nice. I found a few small ponds with some small gators in them. As you can see from the blue line, I traveled inland a little before heading north back to the parking area. I saw a variety of wildlife as well as large amount of cattle. The total hike was about 7.15 miles and it took a little over 5 hours. GPS Coords: 28 25.761N 80 54.159W
#2 (yellow line) - this hike also started at parking area #13 in the Tosohatchee WMA. I crossed the wooden bridge, heading west. I then headed south down around the pond in the map. You will then pickup a blazed orange horse trail (actually both horse and people, but the horse people blazed it, so I call it a horse trail) heading south. Once pretty far down you will use cattle trails to get you out to the river. This area is pretty flat and not the prettiest, but it is still nice. I found a few small ponds with some small gators in them. For this hike I headed back into the blazed trail after exploring the area for a while, then I headed north back to the parking area. I saw a variety of wildlife as well as large amount of cattle. The total hike was about 6.2 miles and it took a little over 5 hours. GPS Coords: 28 26.234N 80 54.074W
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St Johns River at Lake Winder
These are of some of my hikes into the river area around Lake Winder. This area is interesting and has some nice views, but it is not as pretty as some of the hikes. In order to start the hikes you must enter the River Conservation Area (Moccasin Island) from Wickham Road. Follow the dirt road out to the parking lot.
Details about the hikes at Lake Winder using numbers in above map
#1 - I went north out of the parking area up to the observation area overlooking Lake Winder (actually the St Johns River). You will just get a view of the river, because of a canal in the area you cannot get close to it. This also is best undertaken in the winter as you are about 98% of the time in the sun. The total hike was about 6.2 miles and it took a little over 4 hours. GPS Coords: 28 15.189N 80 49.882W
#2 - I went north out of the parking area then headed west out to the Moccasin Island area. As you can see from the blue line I looped back to the parking lot. This hike provides you with a pretty view of Lake Winder and some nice areas to visit. Because of the lower area, it is recommended you only try this hike in the dry season. Also the grass around the island area can be so thick that it is almost impossible to get through, so be aware of that. This also is best undertaken in the winter as you are about 98% of the time in the sun. I have taken this hike a number of times, varying it a little each time. I have seen a variety of wildlife in the area. The total hike was about 6.2 miles and it took a little over 6 hours. GPS Coords: 28 14.685N 80 50.582W
#3 - I took this hike one day when all the conditions were perfect - grass had been burned down, the area was very dry and there were no hunters around (actually no one around). I was very fortunate to be in the area when all the stars seemed to be aligned in my favor, as they say. I have hiked this area many times, but this was the first time I tried this loop along the river. I headed west out of the parking lot on the south side of the canal. Once I hit the conservation area I found a trail and headed south, crossing the canal at the area provided. From there I headed west again until I hit the road and headed south. I then found the road out to the St Johns River and followed it west until I hit the river. I followed the river up to Lake Winder (I must tell you that there were some pretty big gators in the river that day) and then I followed the canal back to the parking lot. The river was very pretty that day, a different stretch for me. I was very lucky this day for more than one reason. I saw a large variety of wildlife during the hike. The total hike was about 11.2 miles and it took me almost 8 hours. GPS Coords: 28 14.422N 80 51.094W
I have created a couple of hikes I’ve taken and posted to the Internet - you can see them at WIKILOC Hikes - just look for the areas named above.
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St Johns River Below RT50
These are of some of my hikes into the river area just below RT50. This is what I found to be a very pretty area.
Details about the hikes below RT50 using numbers in above map
#1 - This hike started at parking area # 24 off Powerline Road in the Tosohatchee WMA. I headed north up to the Blues Head Mound on the right side. I then headed over to the Blues Head Mound and out through the grass using a cattle trail to the river. I then spent some time walking and enjoying that section of the river. On the way back I passed through the smaller mound next to Blues Head. There I found a bald eagles nest that was still occupied by an eaglet. The total hike was a little over 7 miles and it took a little over 5 hours. GPS Coords: 28 31.972N 80 55.975W
#2 - This hike started at parking area # 22 off Powerline Road in the Tosohatchee WMA. We went north up through the cypress forest that is located in the area just above James Creek. The creek and the cypress forest area was just about dry, so water wasn’t a problem. If it is the wet season I doubt this could be done. At one point we headed out to the river that has some of the nicest cypress trees around. We worked up the river and then headed back into the woods using an old road we located up there. We looped back down through the cypress forest to the parking lot. The watermarks from TS Fay on the trees were very impressive. The total hike was about 6.5 miles and it took about 5.25 hours. GPS Coords: 28 31.326N 80 55.076W
#3 - This hike started at parking area # 22 off Powerline Road in the Tosohatchee WMA. We headed out to the James Creek basin and then down it to what is Mud Lake. Both James Creek and Mud Lake were pretty dried up, so walking out to the river was no problem. This part of the river is nice, but certainly not the nicest section. As in all the areas we saw a variety of wildlife. The total hike was about 5.6 miles and it took about 5 hours. GPS Coords: 28 30.655N 80 54.110W
#4 - This hike started in the parking area for Canaveral Marsh off RT50. It was a very long hike. It took me along a large section of the river, over Paw Paw Mound and back to the parking area. I headed west along what is the blue blazed trail and then turned southwest staying on the blue trail. When I came to the Addison Canal I followed that down to the river. It then took me a little while to find dry cattle trail through the grass over to Paw Paw Mound. From there I looped back up to the parking area. The views of the river in this section are also very pretty, certainly worth the trip. This also is a dry season hike and preferably a winter hike as it is just about 99% in the sun. I saw a variety of wildlife as well as horses and a large amount of cattle. The total hike was about 9.7 miles and it took about 6 hours. GPS Coords: 28 31.228N 80 54.117W
#5 - This hike also started in the parking area for Canaveral Marsh off RT50. I headed west along what is the blue blazed trail and then turned southwest staying on the blue trail. When I came to the Addison Canal I headed west following it. The trail took me to the RV area that you can see from RT50. I followed the fence down into a mound area and then out near the river. This hike only goes near the river for a very short time. What is nice are the trails it takes you through the mound area. The trails are blazed, but at times hard to spot, so keep your eyes open. This also is a dry season hike and preferably a winter hike, as it can get pretty hot out there. I saw a variety of wildlife and got some nice wildflower pictures. The total hike was about 9.7 miles and it took about 5 hours. GPS Coords: 28 30.591N 80 52.266W
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St Johns River Below RT528
These are of some of my hikes into the river area just below RT528. This area is interesting and has some nice views, but it is not as pretty as the above hikes. In order to start the hikes you must enter Tosohatchee WMA using the Taylor Creek Road entrance and then drive down Fish Hole Road, using the underpass go under RT528 and then take the first left all the way to parking area #13
Details about the hikes below RT528 using numbers in above map
#1 (blue line) - as I mentioned, this hike starts at parking area #13 in the Tosohatchee WMA. I crossed the wooden bridge, heading west. I then headed south down around the pond in the map. You will then pickup a blazed orange horse trail (actually both horse and people, but the horse people blazed it, so I call it a horse trail) heading south. Once pretty far down you will use cattle trails to get you out to the river. This area is pretty flat and not the prettiest, but it is still nice. I found a few small ponds with some small gators in them. As you can see from the blue line, I traveled inland a little before heading north back to the parking area. I saw a variety of wildlife as well as large amount of cattle. The total hike was about 7.15 miles and it took a little over 5 hours. GPS Coords: 28 25.761N 80 54.159W
#2 (yellow line) - this hike also started at parking area #13 in the Tosohatchee WMA. I crossed the wooden bridge, heading west. I then headed south down around the pond in the map. You will then pickup a blazed orange horse trail (actually both horse and people, but the horse people blazed it, so I call it a horse trail) heading south. Once pretty far down you will use cattle trails to get you out to the river. This area is pretty flat and not the prettiest, but it is still nice. I found a few small ponds with some small gators in them. For this hike I headed back into the blazed trail after exploring the area for a while, then I headed north back to the parking area. I saw a variety of wildlife as well as large amount of cattle. The total hike was about 6.2 miles and it took a little over 5 hours. GPS Coords: 28 26.234N 80 54.074W
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St Johns River at Lake Winder
These are of some of my hikes into the river area around Lake Winder. This area is interesting and has some nice views, but it is not as pretty as some of the hikes. In order to start the hikes you must enter the River Conservation Area (Moccasin Island) from Wickham Road. Follow the dirt road out to the parking lot.
Details about the hikes at Lake Winder using numbers in above map
#1 - I went north out of the parking area up to the observation area overlooking Lake Winder (actually the St Johns River). You will just get a view of the river, because of a canal in the area you cannot get close to it. This also is best undertaken in the winter as you are about 98% of the time in the sun. The total hike was about 6.2 miles and it took a little over 4 hours. GPS Coords: 28 15.189N 80 49.882W
#2 - I went north out of the parking area then headed west out to the Moccasin Island area. As you can see from the blue line I looped back to the parking lot. This hike provides you with a pretty view of Lake Winder and some nice areas to visit. Because of the lower area, it is recommended you only try this hike in the dry season. Also the grass around the island area can be so thick that it is almost impossible to get through, so be aware of that. This also is best undertaken in the winter as you are about 98% of the time in the sun. I have taken this hike a number of times, varying it a little each time. I have seen a variety of wildlife in the area. The total hike was about 6.2 miles and it took a little over 6 hours. GPS Coords: 28 14.685N 80 50.582W
#3 - I took this hike one day when all the conditions were perfect - grass had been burned down, the area was very dry and there were no hunters around (actually no one around). I was very fortunate to be in the area when all the stars seemed to be aligned in my favor, as they say. I have hiked this area many times, but this was the first time I tried this loop along the river. I headed west out of the parking lot on the south side of the canal. Once I hit the conservation area I found a trail and headed south, crossing the canal at the area provided. From there I headed west again until I hit the road and headed south. I then found the road out to the St Johns River and followed it west until I hit the river. I followed the river up to Lake Winder (I must tell you that there were some pretty big gators in the river that day) and then I followed the canal back to the parking lot. The river was very pretty that day, a different stretch for me. I was very lucky this day for more than one reason. I saw a large variety of wildlife during the hike. The total hike was about 11.2 miles and it took me almost 8 hours. GPS Coords: 28 14.422N 80 51.094W
I have created a couple of hikes I’ve taken and posted to the Internet - you can see them at WIKILOC Hikes - just look for the areas named above.
Some White Bird Pictures
Here are a few pictures of white wading birds I've come across in my travels (click to enlarge)
Geeez, how did he get in there.....
Geeez, how did he get in there.....
Seminole Ranch Hiking
This WMA (Wildlife Management Area) covers 6000 acres, from just above RT50 North up to the ST Johns River. It borders the Orlando Wetlands at one point. The Florida Trail winds through a major section of it. In the section near RT50 you will have the option to take the Florida Trail (orange blazed trail) or branch out a little, following a white blazed trail. The area is bordered on the East side by the St Johns River and on the West side by pastures. This means that you can pretty much go were ever you want without getting lost. As I’ve mentioned, if you wish to stay on the blazed trails, they are normally in fine shape. Many of the water crossings have bridges (I counted 7) created by the local hiking group. The grounds can be wet during the wet season, so be aware of that. Most of the trails below Wheeler Road have tree cover, so you are protected from the Florida Sun. Once at Wheeler Road most of the areas North are wide open. The road leading up to Orange Mound can be pretty with views of the St Johns River. I have hiked all the trails, as well exploring the complete area. I enjoy getting out near the St Johns River during the dry season. If you look hard you will find trails blazed by the local cattle population. These beasts might look pretty big and intimating, but my experience is that they don’t want anything to do with you. There is a small building on Wheeler Road that is a nice place to stop and take a break. It is there to be used during the hunting season for hunter monitoring. I suggest that you review my hunting calendar (Hunting Schedule) to see if any hunting is scheduled in the area. If you elect to enter the area during the hunting season (I’ve done it), please wear some bright clothing. If you are quiet, I’m sure you will see a wide variety of wildlife. I personally have seen all kind of songbirds, owls, deer, wading birds and a few reptiles.
Here are the coords for some of the places in the area; you can use Google Earth to “fly-to” them if you want to get an aerial view.
You can see many of the pictures I've taken at Seminole Ranch WMA at - Seminole Ranch Panoramio Pictures
In conclusion, I highly recommend this hiking area. I have as I’ve said, been all over the place, enjoying every minute of the visit. I have created a couple of hikes I’ve taken and posted to the Internet - you can see them at WIKILOC Hikes - just look for Seminole Ranch in list.
Some of my wandering in Seminole Ranch area (click to enlarge)
Florida WMA Map (click to enlarge)
Small dam why up above Orlando Wetlands
Area of ranch near the St. Johns River
Hunters checkin station - you can stop here and take a break
Gate from parking area on Wheeler Road
Trail and small bridge
Bridge over small creek
Trail in the woods
Pasture on west side of ranch
Picnic table/rest area along the Florida Trail
Here are the coords for some of the places in the area; you can use Google Earth to “fly-to” them if you want to get an aerial view.
- RT50 Parking Area – N28 32.429 W80 59.280
- Wheeler Road Parking Area – N28 32.670 W80 59.019
- Wheeler Road Access Gate - N28 34.158 W80 59.648
- Hunter Monitor Station – N28 34.151 W80 59.404
- Orange Mound - N28 35.900 W080 58.223
- White Trail Start – N28 32.498 W80 59.059
- White Trail End - N28 32.987 W80 59.066
- Picnic Table On Orange Trail – N28 32.670 W80 59.019
You can see many of the pictures I've taken at Seminole Ranch WMA at - Seminole Ranch Panoramio Pictures
In conclusion, I highly recommend this hiking area. I have as I’ve said, been all over the place, enjoying every minute of the visit. I have created a couple of hikes I’ve taken and posted to the Internet - you can see them at WIKILOC Hikes - just look for Seminole Ranch in list.
Some of my wandering in Seminole Ranch area (click to enlarge)
Florida WMA Map (click to enlarge)
Small dam why up above Orlando Wetlands
Area of ranch near the St. Johns River
Hunters checkin station - you can stop here and take a break
Gate from parking area on Wheeler Road
Trail and small bridge
Bridge over small creek
Trail in the woods
Pasture on west side of ranch
Picnic table/rest area along the Florida Trail
St Johns River Indian Mounds - From RT46 to Below RT520
There is a mess of mounds along the St Johns River below RT46, down to below RT520. A few of the mounds are named and can be found on Topo Maps. If you search the Internet you can find reference to them (little information, but reference). They are as far as I’ve been told, remnants of when the Indians were here in the area. I have visited most of them with a friend (The Boonie Man) by boat. Most all of them can only be easily accessed by boat. I am only trying here to give as much information as I have about the mounds I have visited - I believe history should be accurate, so the actual facts I leave to those who know.
Some of them are just mounds of dirt and common Florida plants and trees. Others have been used for camping and other activities. I’m told that all of them have been gone over to access their archaeological value. If you should spot anything that relates to the history of the mound, don't touch or take it - it is history and should be preserved! There are many archaeological agencies in the State of Florida who would like to know about any finds, so notify them of what you have seen. There really shouldn't be anything left on these mounds, they have been gone over very extensively by archaeologists.
If you know anything more about any of the mounds, please email me and/or post a comment about it.
Please note: I have been trying to find out where Baxter/Persimmion Mound is. I have created a website which will show you what I have found, you can Click Here or go to https://sites.google.com/site/baxterpersimmonmound/
Here is a list of the mounds, with my description and pictures. Click on the pictures to see a larger version of each. I have listed them in order of location from below RT46 to below RT520.
Some of them are just mounds of dirt and common Florida plants and trees. Others have been used for camping and other activities. I’m told that all of them have been gone over to access their archaeological value. If you should spot anything that relates to the history of the mound, don't touch or take it - it is history and should be preserved! There are many archaeological agencies in the State of Florida who would like to know about any finds, so notify them of what you have seen. There really shouldn't be anything left on these mounds, they have been gone over very extensively by archaeologists.
If you know anything more about any of the mounds, please email me and/or post a comment about it.
Please note: I have been trying to find out where Baxter/Persimmion Mound is. I have created a website which will show you what I have found, you can Click Here or go to https://sites.google.com/site/baxterpersimmonmound/
Here is a list of the mounds, with my description and pictures. Click on the pictures to see a larger version of each. I have listed them in order of location from below RT46 to below RT520.
- Palmer-Taylor Mound - N28 41.883 W81 02.086.
This mound is a short distance from the Econlockhatchee River; about .23 miles walk from the river’s edge. This mound shows little sign of human activity. It does have a few spots where it looks like someone has been doing some digging. One or two things left by other people, but as I’ve said basically just a mound of Florida natural plants and trees.
Palmer-Taylor Mound
- Buzzard Roost Mound - N28 41.499 W81 01.736
This mound is on the south side of the Econlockhatchee River; about .21 miles walk from the river’s edge. It was a pretty wet walk the day we went to visit this mound. On this mound you will see signs of human activity, from an old charcoal grill to wooden planks nailed to trees. The mound is out in the open, with views in all directions. The cattle in the area had eaten the grass down pretty well all around the edge of the mound. The mound is made up mainly of palm trees and weeds.
Buzzard Roost Mound
- Noah Mound - N28 39.815 W81 01.188
Got closer to this mound today as the water level was much more favorable for getting to it with our boat. It is just a mound in the river covered with tall, thick weeds. Being that the weeds didn't look to great for digging through, we just did a spin around it and left. Later some local cattle may get to it and "weed it out", making it more accessible. I'm told there maybe a survey marker on it, but that has not been confirmed as of yet.
- Buck Point Mound - N28 39.184 W81 01.386
Made it out to see this mound the other day. It was quite a wet trip from the boat to dry land, so if you want to visit this mound you might expect that. Much to our surprise, the mound at the coords provided didn't really look like an Indian mound, it was pretty flat. The mound in front of it, nearer the river, actually looked like it could be the actual mound. It is very possible that maps are showing the wrong location for this mound (have seen that in other cases), so if you find out more, let me know.
- Heiffer Mound - N28 37.900 W81 00.353
This looks like just a mound of dirt with weeds on it. We where both surprised when we found that this was a named mound. I am assuming that under all that dirt is a pile of shells and Indian artifacts. You can see some shells and I did find a piece of looked like pottery at the river’s edge. During one visit there was an airboat flag atop it, but that was gone during the last visit. We meet some locals nearby and they informed us of a more colorful name they have for the mound.
Heiffer Mound
- Saddle Mound - N28 37.784 W81 00.503
This is a small mound in about .23 miles from Heiffer Mound. It is just a raised piece of land with some trees and weeds. It is a very pretty area, what there is of it. It is on the edge of what is currently (7/09) private property. We meet some Florida Forestry employees during one visit that informed us that this would be all public land in the not too distant future – that will be great! There is a USC&G Survey Marker located on the mound. Expect to encounter a lot of cow “paddies” when visiting this mound.
Saddle Mound
- Moccasin Mound - N28 37.833 W81 00.819
This is a small mound about .6 miles from Heiffer Mound. It is just a raised piece of land with some trees and weeds. It is a very pretty area, what there is of it. It is located within the Charles H. Bronson State Forest. You can get to it from the river or hiking in from the trailhead located at the end of Philipps Road (N28 35.513 W81 02.540).
Moccasin Mound
- Orange Mound - N28 35.900 W80 58.223
This mound does not appear on Topo Maps, but it does show up on many maps used to reference the area. It is a large mound, right on the edge of the river. I noticed from the boat that areas washed away revealed a shellfish shell base. We walked around it, as there are signs of human activity all through it. It is just about completely covered by palm and other trees.
Orange Mound
- Indian Fields Mound - N28 36.051 W80 56.703
This mound does not seem to appear on maps, I was shown it by a friend. It rises quite a bit above the land around it, with a huge oak tree near the top. I was told it is considered an historical place, but like so many things in Florida, information about it is hard to come by. It is located in the Salt Lake WMA. You can get to it by boat (kayak) or by land. If you don’t mind crossing a creek, the closest access point is from the observation tower gate on Hatbill Road (N28 37.853 W80 56.851). You can take the long way in from the main entrance to the Salt Lake WMA (N28 38.401 W80 53.397). The area around it has quite a few wild grapefruit and orange trees, as this once was an orchard quite a ways back.
Indian Fields Mound
- Paw Paw Mound – N28 31.254 W080 54.275
This one is a strange one as far as GPS coords are concerned. Topo maps show one spot, but as far as everyone who goes there, those are wrong - Topo map coords: N28 30.301 W80 54.271 – My coords: N28 31.254 W080 54.275
No idea what is causing this problem, but it is generally accepted that the actual mound is located at my coords.
This is a huge mound, right near the river. It is a major destination for airboaters, so expect to see some if you visit this mound. It has a variety of greenery, from oak trees, orange trees and palm trees. You will see a major human present affecting this mound. This is one that you can walk into quite easily from RT50. There is a USC&G Survey Marker located on the mound. I highly recommend a visit to this area; I have been here a number of times.
Paw Paw Mound
- Mulberry Mound - N28 21.801 W80 52.469
This a huge mound located just below RT520. As far as I know, boat access is the only way in, but I suspect that it could be accessed by land during certain times of the year. Again, being so close to the river you will encounter a large present of human activity – fires, trails and at times litter. There is at least one memorial to a passed airboater. It is pretty much covered with all kinds of trees, even some wild oranges. Orange trees where suppose to be left by the Spanish.
Mulberry Mound
Map Locations of Mounds (click to enlarge)
Well that is about it on the named mounds, like I mentioned earlier; if you have more information or know of anymore named mounds in the area of St Johns River I’ve covered, please leave a comment. You can see some of my boat trips detailed in WIKILOC. I ask you to please “take nothing but photos and leave nothing but footprints” when visiting any areas in the wild.
Wickham Park in Melbourne - Hiking etc
Right in the center of Melbourne is Wickham Park. It provides a number of different areas for people to enjoy. I personally like the small wooded section on the east side, but I have also walked around the open scrub section quite a bit. The main usage area is the area around the paved road that runs through about half the park.
Wickham Park has a number of different attractions
· Swimming allowed pond
· Multiple other ponds
· Multiple picnic areas
· Multiple restrooms
· Large children’s playground
· Dog park
· Archery section
· Sidewalk and picnic pavilion section
· Soccer field
· Senior center
· Disk golf course
· Amphitheater
· Marked bike trail
· Marked hiking trails
· Multiple GEOCaches
· Equestrian center
· Variety of wildlife and birds
· Variety of wildflowers
· Youth camp
· Camping/RV section
On any given day you will see a large number of people enjoying any of the things I’ve mentioned. As I mentioned, most all of the activity is concentrated in the southern section of the park. If you just want to get away from the crowds, try wandering around the scrub and wooded sections. The only problems I have encountered while out there is the litter left by inconsiderate people. I am afraid that the county will sooner or later consume all the scrub area for use on what it considers more favorable things. I’m sure that if the gopher tortoises had a say in the development, they would stand behind me and say "enough is enough"!
I have created a couple of hikes I’ve taken and posted to the Internet - you can see them at WIKILOC Hikes - just look for Wickham Park in list.
Note: Click on picture to enlarge As you can see from this picture I have covered a fair amount of Wickham Park
The locals are unhappy with the development also
"Buddy" trees in the park
One of the Scrub Jays I spotted
Some local flowers
Trail marker
I hope this fellow I spotted on a trail is not someday a meal or kill thrill for the feral cats which are quite prolific in the park. While walking and exploring I have seen feeder stations for these cats - I also have seen people driving up and feeding them. I certainly don't want to alienate those people, but don't they realize how cats love to hunt and kill things. I can only imagine how many baby (and adult) squirrels, rabbits, scrub jays and other birds are being hunted and killed by those cats.
One final note, please "take nothing but photos and leave nothing but footprints"! This is just one bag of the many bags of litter I have picked up along the trails during my visits to the park.
These made it to the recycle bin, so that is a good thing!
Wickham Park has a number of different attractions
· Swimming allowed pond
· Multiple other ponds
· Multiple picnic areas
· Multiple restrooms
· Large children’s playground
· Dog park
· Archery section
· Sidewalk and picnic pavilion section
· Soccer field
· Senior center
· Disk golf course
· Amphitheater
· Marked bike trail
· Marked hiking trails
· Multiple GEOCaches
· Equestrian center
· Variety of wildlife and birds
· Variety of wildflowers
· Youth camp
· Camping/RV section
On any given day you will see a large number of people enjoying any of the things I’ve mentioned. As I mentioned, most all of the activity is concentrated in the southern section of the park. If you just want to get away from the crowds, try wandering around the scrub and wooded sections. The only problems I have encountered while out there is the litter left by inconsiderate people. I am afraid that the county will sooner or later consume all the scrub area for use on what it considers more favorable things. I’m sure that if the gopher tortoises had a say in the development, they would stand behind me and say "enough is enough"!
I have created a couple of hikes I’ve taken and posted to the Internet - you can see them at WIKILOC Hikes - just look for Wickham Park in list.
Note: Click on picture to enlarge As you can see from this picture I have covered a fair amount of Wickham Park
The locals are unhappy with the development also
"Buddy" trees in the park
One of the Scrub Jays I spotted
Some local flowers
Trail marker
I hope this fellow I spotted on a trail is not someday a meal or kill thrill for the feral cats which are quite prolific in the park. While walking and exploring I have seen feeder stations for these cats - I also have seen people driving up and feeding them. I certainly don't want to alienate those people, but don't they realize how cats love to hunt and kill things. I can only imagine how many baby (and adult) squirrels, rabbits, scrub jays and other birds are being hunted and killed by those cats.
One final note, please "take nothing but photos and leave nothing but footprints"! This is just one bag of the many bags of litter I have picked up along the trails during my visits to the park.
These made it to the recycle bin, so that is a good thing!
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