I went camping her several times as a child. I remember when they used to let people jump off the docks where the ferry brings you now. When the water was calm you could see the stingrays and mantarays swimming at the bottom. I also use to walk around the island. I love all the views, the history of the island is pretty neat. They had the Santa Maria, and the Pinta docked at the island, with reenactments of life on the sea. I recall one point there was pirate day, the camp grounds are really nice with a concrete area for your tent, as well as clean bathrooms with showers available. Although on weekends the swimming area tends to become overcrowded with boats, swimmers, and floats.
always a must
I grew up going to florida's springs and finally took my native Tennessee husband to florida for a week and we stopped here. I'm glad we did. It cost us about seven dollars to enter the park. WE walked and took a look at the area to put in your tubes, it looked divine but we didnt have tubes with us.So we drove to the other entrance and walked about fifteen minutes to check out the blue hole but my husband didn't want to swim there. We then walked backed to the headspring. He fell in love he has never seen a spring that was anywhere near large enough to swim in. We took a refreshing swim before we got back on the road.
now resides in chattanooga tn http://www.roadsideamerica.com/blog/monster-head-tennessee/
Back in April of 2012, my husband and I had the first wedding held at the refurbished Appalachian Clubhouse since its hay day. It was beautiful we said our vows right in front of one of its two stone fireplaces. Afterwards our families enjoyed hiking and exploring the abandoned grounds. i have many pictures of the inside if anyone is interested.