My first time visiting Okefenokee Swamp was over 40 years ago when my sister and I stayed with the Prescotts for a semester. Alison was a great tour guide and Graham was a budding herpetologist. Today, after dropping my trailer off in at the shipper in Folkston, GA, I decided to give Okefenokee Adventures another visit.
I wanted to launch my board into the pristine black water, but was informed that paddle boards are not allowed due to potential falls and dangers lurking beneath the surface. Makes sense especially since I have an inflatable. So I decided to drive my tractor on the eight-mile Swamp Island loop. There were only a few cars that day and definitely more gators than humans.
Much of what I loved about Swamp drive was that it’s a magnificent excursion to see giant tupelos, cypress trees, red fox and river otters. And of course the elusive alligator.
Parked my rig, then walked on the boardwalk over the peaceful black waters to the observation tower where you can see more wildlife up close and personal. The Native American name means “Land of the Trembling Earth” – definitely sent shivers of excitement as I rediscovered Georgia’s national wildlife preserve.
I will be back – next time on a kayak and hopefully run into more big-eye beasties.
