Canaveral National Seashore is one of the most scenic, natural and remote beaches in Florida.
Posted by David McRee at BlogTheBeach.com
Long before the European explorers first set foot on Florida’s Atlantic beaches, the Timucua were well established inhabitants of this windswept coast. They are gone now, largely victims of diseases brought over by sailors from far off lands. But they’ve left behind many traces of their existence, including more than 100 Pre-Columbian shell mounds located within the boundaries of Canaveral National Seashore. Many of these shell mounds were so high that they were used as navigational landmarks during colonial times.
One of the best opportunities you’ll have to see and learn about this rich historical land is coming up in January 2010 at the 13th Annual Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival. A guided field trip will take you to three of the shell mounds:
- Seminole Rest – Has several shell mounds dating back to 2000 B.C as well has several historic pioneer structures.
- Turtle Mound – Used for centuries as a navigational aid, and appearing on Spanish maps as early as the 16th century, this large mound was named for its resemblance to a large turtle. This large mound offers a great panoramic view of the coastal area.
- Castle Windy – Smaller than the Turtle Mound but extends for 300 feet along the shores of the Mosquito Lagoon. Radioactive carbon dated to 1200 A.D.
Participants in this Historic Sites field trip will also visit the El Dora Statehouse, a restored 1800’s pioneer home.
John Stiner (National Park Service), Rachel Wentz (Florida Public Archaeology Network) and David Hartgrove will serve as guides on this tour. Many species of birds and wildlife will be visible at all the sites, so bring your binoculars, field guide and camera.
Be sure to bring money for lunch at J.B.’s Fish Camp on the Mosquito Lagoon. I’ve eaten there and I’d look for an excuse to go back any time.
J.B.'s Fish Camp restaurant as viewed from their dock on the Mosquito Lagoon.
At the entrance to J.B.'s Fish Camp Restaurant.
The field trip takes place January 29, 2010 from 8:30 to 5:00 p.m. Advance registration required.
If this trip sounds interesting, visit the website of the Space Coast Birding & Wildlife Festival and download their free catalog of field trips and classroom presentations.
FTC Disclosure of Material Connections: I receive compensation from the Space Coast Birding & Wildlife Festival for writing about the 2010 Festival.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I would omit the word “one” in “one of the most” to make it read “the most” in your picture description, because it truly is a gem and unique, unadulterated piece of shoreline, thanks for the article!
Your point is well taken Greg. When writing that caption I decided to use the qualifier “one of” so I wouldn’t offend folks who considered other beaches “the most.” One could make a good argument that the Fort Pickens area beaches are “the most” scenic, remote, and natural with their tall white dunes, brilliant white quartz beaches and crystal clear waters. As for scenic, I would also consider two others as beautiful as CNS (though not as remote): Guana River State Park beaches, with their mountainous dunes really take my breath away, and Bahia Honda State Park with its view from the old RR bridge is just incredible.
I have to agree that with its miles of nearly inaccessible beaches, Canaveral National Seashore can fairly be considered “the most” scenic, natural and remote beach in Florida, scoring highly in each category.
Thanks for dropping by and leaving a comment!