The clear, spring fed Wacissa River is the main tributary of the blackwater Aucilla. Each river has a strong relationship to the underlying karst aquifer, and are hotbeds of paleo-archeology. It’s fitting that in this remote, primeval landscape, archeologists have found evidence that humans have been on our continent for longer than previously thought.
Whether on the water or on trails, this is a place to get lost in the beauty of our area, and to get in touch with Florida’s ancient roots.
We visit the mysterious Aucilla Sinks with geologist Harley Means. Here, we can get a glimpse into the karst geology that provides Florida’s abundant water.
We explore ice age Florida through artifacts and fossils excavated on the Wacissa River, and learn about the archeological methods that tell us their story.
We kayak to several Wacissa River springs an unseasonably warm January Day. Reptiles were out in full force, and it wasn’t a bad day for a swim.
At Lost Creek Forest in Thomasville, families explore an old growth forest at the headwaters of the Aucilla, and learn how to make use of native plants.
Archeologists scuba dive the Wacissa River to uncover artifacts that could be 12,000 years old or older. Also, we ponder the “First Floridians.”
Volunteering on Wacissa River excavations led to a Tallahassee man entering a Ph.D. program at Texas A&M. We visit his 12,000 year old site, being dug now.
The Aucilla River’s black waters hide archeological treasures, having served Floridians for thousands of years. It’s also a challenging kayak & canoe trail.
Slave Canal has been a popular Florida kayak and canoe destination for, I don’t know, a few thousand years. Explore with us on our latest EcoAdventure.
We have posted the video of our latest EcoAdventure, a hike along the Aucilla Sinks on the Florida National Scenic Trail. We also have some tips on dealing with insects on your Summer adventures.
Aucilla Sinks is one of the most unique areas along the Florida National Scenic Trail. Take a tour on our interactive map as the Aucilla River disappears and then reemerges in a series of sinkholes and river runs, and see one of the only places in Florida where you can see large exposed rock.