Weekend Backpacker: Tampa

Bridges hop hikers over tropical creeks in the midst of Wekiwa Spring State Park's extensive hammocks

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Wekiwa Springs State Park 1800 Wekiwa Circle Apopka, FL 32712 (407) 884-2008

Wekiva or Wekiwa? Watching for street signs, it can get confusing. Wekiva is the Creek word for"flowing water"; Wekiwa means "bubbling water." So, the crystalline waters of Wekiwa Springs give birth to the Wekiva River, which flows forth as one of Florida's most pristine river systems. Lush cypress swamps, palmetto-lined streams, soggy hammocks, and sand pine scrub characterize Wekiwa. Plunge into the dense forest and you'll soon leave the suburbs behind—7,800 acres of wilderness capture the spirit of ancient Florida, with two beautiful primitive campsites set along 13.5 miles of a loop hiking trail.

GETTING THERE

Take I-4 east through downtown Orlando to exit 49. Follow SR 434 west to Wekiwa Springs Road; alternatively, use SR 436 (Semoran Boulevard) to access Wekiwa Springs Road in Apopka. Follow the signs. Driving time: two hours.

PERMIT INFORMATION

Upon entering the park, you must check in with the rangers if you intend to use the primitive camping areas along the trail. State park day-use fee of about $3.25 applies.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

A popular swimming and canoeing destination, Wekiwa fills up rapidly during the hot months. Luckily, crowds depart during the cool season, leaving the park to the backpackers. Camp Cozy, along Rock Springs Run, has better access to water but is more popular with large organized groups; if you're looking for serenity, pack in your water and opt for the quiet Live Oak Camp. Be sure to bear bag—not just for the sake of the persistent raccoons, but also to stymie the Florida black bears that amble through this forest.

GUIDEBOOK AND MAPS

The loop trails in this park are well blazed in white, blue, and yellow. A simple corresponding map of the trails is available at the ranger station, noting campsites and water sources. You can also purchase a detailed map, EC-1 Wekiwa Springs State Park Trail, through the Florida Trail Association; visit the website for ordering information.

Orlando author and biology teacher Deborah Green has written an excellent and detailed guidebook to the park, Wekiwa Springs State Park Habitat Tour. Her book Watching Wildlife in the Wekiva River Basin also contains a chapter on the park. Both are available at local bookstores.