From Ocala to Florida's Panhandle

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The scenic route past acres and acres of beautiful horse farms between Ocala and Williston is amazing. Beyond that the scene changes rather dramatically. We camped at the Suawanee River Camp Ground in Dixie County. This colorful slice of America is the land of turkey and boar hunting, catfish fishing, drive in prayer services at the Dairy King and permanent garage sales. We had previously taken I-75 to get to the Panhandle. This year's trip via State Routes 27, 19 and 98 had more interesting diversions. We camped at the Carabelle RV Park for two nights before getting to St. George Island. Carabelle's harbor is lovely. The WWII Museum is a little hard to find; but it has an interesting collection and fascinating story. Caraballe was the site of Camp Gordon Johnson, a major army base during the 40’s where soldiers trained for the Normandy landing (the coastal conditions are said to be similar to Normandy). Pirates Restaurant had good food and nice view. 2 Als’ Café had it all - very unique, funky décor, great food AND trivia night on Thursday. St. George State Park is wild, beautiful and popular - reservations are a must. There is barely any cell/air card service; I'm doing this blog from a Subway restaurant in the little village of St. George. On Sunday we drove over to Apalachicola, a little historic town. Every town seems to want to latch onto "historic." This one, while still developing, is genuine. There are several boutiques and galleries and a handfull of nice restaurants. Many businesses were closed on Sunday. We are in the deep south, the charming land of "Yes, M'am," cheese grits and Sunday closings. It is so different from other parts of Florida --- We LOVE it all!

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Photos

Working Hard
Wes and I took our laptops to Boss Oysters in Apalachicola to catch up with some client stuff on Sunday. Aircard/cell service at remote St. George's State Park is a bit spotty.

Lunch at Boss Oyster, Apalachicola
These are the biggest, tastiest oysters! Also, at our table for two: oyster stew, grouper chowder, grouper fish fry with corn fritters and curly fries, a few brews and a great seaport view.

Wes and the Pelican
We have to go back to the Tin Shack. The artist was closed on Sunday.

Roughin' It, Breakfast at the Campsite
St. George State Park is wonderful! Wes made a real camp=style breakfast and we ate outside at the picnic table. Notice the Raid and OFF - there is a bit of a "no-seeum" situation toward dusk!

Two Oyster Boats, One Shrimper Going Out
This is the scene from the deck at Boss Oysters, Apalachicola.

Sponges, Antiques, Oriental Rugs
A fun and funky shop in Apalachicola!

Trivia Night "Two Als' Cafe"
This is the best restaurant in Carabelle. Very fun, interesting "decor," good food and Al and Skip's own brand of Trivia and Wheel of Fortune on Thursday nights.

Amazing Trees St. George Bay
We took a short hike from the campsite to the "bay" side of the barrier island.

Carabelle Facility
Really just a joke --- but this is rural, underdeveloped, primitive and very nice!

St. George Lighthouse
This was restored brick by brick by volunteers.

Joanne, Carabelle
Tie-dye is fun to wear! This one says Peace, Love & Sand, Northport, NY. Vivian picked it out especially for me.

Doug's Moveable Fish Market
We bought grouper, jumbo gulf shrimp and oysters from Doug! Delish!

Sea Food
Signage is such fun --- down with zoning requirements!