ECO Tour

Nesteled between Caravelle Ranch Conservation Area and the Ocala National Forest, Welaka State Forest Andersens is the perfect launching spot for enjoying the natural beauty of the area with an eco tour. Just north of Little Lake George and south of the Oklawaha River, the locale also includes Mud Creek and Dunns Creek Conservation and Recreation areas.

Beacuse of the abundance of wild life, these areas are traditional rich resources for fishing and hunting. With a new appreciation of eco tour and eco travel, they are now appreciated for the diversity of eco system also. The Indians called the St. Johns River Welaka, which translated means "river of lakes". The St. Johns River stretches 310 miles beginning in Central Florida north to Jacksonville. This magical river is the only river in North America that flows north and is considered one of the "laziest rivers in the world." The St. John's River is world renowned for it's bass fishing, and is home to a staggering amount of different species of birds and wildlife including blue herons, cranes, egrets, alligators, manatees, deer, panthers, and bobcats. The river offers eco tourists views of wild life you may not see any where else. Welaka, Florida is located right in the middle of it all. Welaka lies north of Little and Big Lake George, the St. Johns River's largest lake and home to Silver Glenn Springs and Salt Springs, and south of Dunn's Creek Conservation area, which connects the river to Lake Crescent.

We can recommend local eco tour outfitters and guides or explore this rich and pristine environment on your own. The Welaka State Forest offers miles of horseback riding trails, stalls and a round pen as well as hiking.