Backwater Report

All Text & Photos Provided by Patrick “Tupat” Eichstaedt @TheRealTupat May’s weather has been windy and warm with some thunderstorms here and there, but the bite has still stayed steady! The hot weather is coming and the top water bite is starting to heat up as well. Live bait is moving in the creeks and the fish are aggressive and hungry. I recently lost the biggest … Continue reading Backwater Report

Backwater Report

All Text & Photos Provided by Patrick “Tupat” Eichstaedt @TheRealTupat As Summer is starting to creep in, the bite continues to be hot both in the river and ocean. We have had our fair share of winds, which has not stopped the action at all. The cobia run has been stellar and the backwaters continue to provide tight lines. Looking ahead as the waters warm … Continue reading Backwater Report

Exploring Gold Head Branch State Park

Spring is in full swing and our family’s favorite place to be is the great outdoors. With 175 official state parks throughout Florida, there’s plenty to choose from to commune with nature. This past month, we chose one of the OGs – Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park. In response to the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt established the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) … Continue reading Exploring Gold Head Branch State Park

Top 5 Best Natural Springs in Florida

Florida is known for its beautiful beaches and theme parks, but did you know that it is also home to some of the most breathtaking natural springs in the world? These springs are not only perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, but they are also a great way to experience the state’s natural beauty and get outside with your family. Our state has over 700 … Continue reading Top 5 Best Natural Springs in Florida

Experience Florida’s Beaches in a New Way: Horseback Riding with Equestrian Adventures

Article by: Kelsey Walters // Photos by: Equestrian Adventures Picturesque beaches are Florida’s calling card – keeping tourists and locals alike flocking to the sandy shores all year long. Walking the beach is nothing new to most Floridians, however this past month, we decided to explore the shore a little differently… Equestrian Adventures of Florida offers a unique beach experience – all from horseback. These … Continue reading Experience Florida’s Beaches in a New Way: Horseback Riding with Equestrian Adventures

ICE!, ICE!, Baby: ICE makes its Return to The Gaylord Palms

Photos & Article by: Kelsey Walters While the weather outside may not be frightful this winter here in Florida, it sure is beginning to look a lot like Christmas, especially at the Gaylord Palms in Kissimmee. The Gaylord Palms has long been known for celebrating the holidays in a big way each year, but this year is especially exciting as ICE! makes its big comeback. … Continue reading ICE!, ICE!, Baby: ICE makes its Return to The Gaylord Palms

Become a Volusia Explorer

Explore Volusia is starting a monthly challenge using the iNaturalist app where you can earn prizes! All you need to do is download the iNaturalist app, available on iPhone and Android devices, to get started. Visit the conservation land of the month, as designated on the app or online at Volusia.org. Using the app, find the hiking trail and follow the directions on the blue … Continue reading Become a Volusia Explorer

Rooting for Fall @ Rooterville Animal Sanctuary

It’s no secret that our family is composed of some hardcore animal lovers. We have a small wolf pack of dogs in our home, and Avery (and maybe me, too) wants to bring home just about any animal she meets. We spend our summers raising tadpoles, hatching butterfly cocoons and catching frogs and every bug under the Florida sun. We visit animal sanctuaries and experiences … Continue reading Rooting for Fall @ Rooterville Animal Sanctuary

Oh, my Gourd – It’s Fall!

Spooky Season is a big deal in the Walters family. We are dead serious about Halloween and all the creepy fun that comes with it. Florida may not get a traditional fall like they do up north, but we’re no strangers to the fun activities that come with Autumn. While its name may be deceiving, Santa’s Christmas Tree Forest is the place to be this … Continue reading Oh, my Gourd – It’s Fall!

De Leon Springs Sugar Mill Announces Big Changes

Photos and Text by Kelsey Walters On Monday night, August 8, 2022, The Old Spanish Sugar Mill at De Leon Springs State Park made the following announcement on their Facebook page: After 61 years, the Old Spanish Sugar Mill will be closing its screen doors. While it is unfortunate, the state has decided not to renew our contract and move forward with another concession in … Continue reading De Leon Springs Sugar Mill Announces Big Changes