Hidden tidal creeks along the river beckoned to be explored. Hydric hammocks and island stands of cabbage palms broke up the swaths of salt marsh cord grasses and black needle rush. American Alligator in the River at theWaccasassa Bay Preserve. A 7-foot alligator swam down a nearby side creek from the river earlier in the day. We had not seen the obstructions on our way out earlier but now spotted the rocks with the lower tides. We pass a sign warning of protruding rocks in the river. Boaters beware- there are rocks beneath the surface on a river bed at the Waccasassa Bay Preserve. It’s a 4-mile run from the Waccasassa River boat ramp to the mouth of the river at the bay. Going up-river from the Waccasassa boat ramp is only navigable for 3-4 miles for paddlers, and downriver is ruled by the tides. The fresh waters are vital for maintaining a healthy wetland ecosystem. ![]() The headwaters begin in the Waccasassa flats and the river is fed by the fresh waters of Bronson Blue Spring and Wekiva Spring, along with several other springs and groundwater sources on its journey to the Gulf of Mexico. The 29-mile Waccasassa River runs through the middle of the preserve, dividing it in half. ![]() Tops twisted off palms are telltale signs of storm damage in the Waccasassa Bay Preserve.
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