VISITOR'S GUIDE - Carrabelle Area Chamber of Commerce
VISITOR'S GUIDE - Carrabelle Area Chamber of Commerce
VISITOR'S GUIDE - Carrabelle Area Chamber of Commerce
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Outdoors lovers and nature enthusiasts will find a lot to do and a lot to love about Franklin County's<br />
Tate's Hell State Forest-whether it is miles <strong>of</strong> hiking trails, or even more miles <strong>of</strong> winding<br />
waterways for canoeing or kayaking, or just drifting along with a hook and line. For those with<br />
a need for speed, the state has established several dozen miles <strong>of</strong> trails set aside for <strong>of</strong>f-highway<br />
vehicles (OHVs) where they may be ridden.<br />
In order to enjoy these many attractions, visitors can set up a camp at one <strong>of</strong> the many sites scattered<br />
throughout the forest. Primitive camping sites (no electricity) and recreational areas are scattered along the<br />
gentle curves <strong>of</strong> the Crooked River north <strong>of</strong> <strong>Carrabelle</strong>, all owning quaint countrified names, <strong>of</strong>fering shaded<br />
seclusion, fire pits or barbecues for cooking, a lovely view <strong>of</strong> a section <strong>of</strong> the cool green river, and most with<br />
their own boat or canoe launches. Most <strong>of</strong> the camps are designated hunt camps, and must be reserved in<br />
advance <strong>of</strong> hunting season, but the other, mixed use camps are available year-round on a daily basis for a mere<br />
$5 fee per day.<br />
They are the perfect destination to plan an extended family picnic, canoe trip, or just a way to escape a hot<br />
day - lay in the cool shade on a riverbank and dull a few pan-size bream out <strong>of</strong> the water and fry them up for<br />
a perfect lunch in the forest.<br />
Tate’s Hell State Forest is part <strong>of</strong> the Florida Birding Trail visit: www.floridabirdingtrail.com/<br />
Tate's Hell is listed on the Florida Paddling Trails in Region B, Segment 5 <strong>of</strong> the New Florida Circumnavigational<br />
Saltwater Paddling Trail www.floridapaddlingtrails.com<br />
For maps <strong>of</strong> Tate's Hell showing all the campsites and more information on reserving campsites,<br />
visit the Tate's Hell Division <strong>of</strong> Forestry <strong>Carrabelle</strong> <strong>of</strong>fice at 290 Airport Road, <strong>Carrabelle</strong>.<br />
Telephone: 850.697.3734 or visit their website at www.fl-d<strong>of</strong>.com/state_forests/tates_hell.html<br />
Dwarf Cypress<br />
Several unique stands <strong>of</strong> cypress wetlands are located within the forest. These cypress trees are documented<br />
to be over 150 years old but only reach a mature height <strong>of</strong> approximately 15 feet, hence the name "dwarf cypress".<br />
They are also referred to as "miniature" or "hat-rack" cypress. The Ralph G. Kendrick Boardwalk <strong>of</strong>fers an<br />
observation tower overlooking one <strong>of</strong> the most prolific areas.<br />
The Ralph G. Kendrick Boardwalk <strong>of</strong>fers a 30-ft tall (accessible) observation<br />
ramp and tower overlooking one <strong>of</strong> the most prolific areas. Just minutes<br />
to the west <strong>of</strong> <strong>Carrabelle</strong> by Highway 98, then 5 miles over forest roads<br />
(always passable in calm weather), the little forest sits quietly in a 20-acre bowl<br />
surrounded by “normal” pines. The experience <strong>of</strong> this sight is unforgettable.<br />
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