FNPS Pawpaw Chapter field trip to Mud Spring

Sat. Dec. 20 - 10AM Mud Spring hike, Welaka State Forest

The December field trip will be a lovely walk in the woods in Welaka State Forest to visit the small but pretty Mud Spring. Despite the name, Mud Spring is a clear third magnitude spring showing at least four boils in the shallow sandy bottom. The natural habitat along the trail is mostly mesic flatwoods, passing through small sections of xeric hammock, baygall, scrubby flatwoods and floodplain forest.

The trail to the spring is about a 2 mile loop on an easy, mostly shaded path. Or we can go in and out on the short side of the loop for about a 1.5 mile total walk. There is a restroom (permanent composting toilet) and a picnic pavilion at the spring. We will take a break to enjoy the spring and the view of the spring run before heading back out.

The trailhead is on County Road 309 across from the Welaka State Forest Visitor Center, south of the town of Welaka & the Fish Hatchery Aquarium and north of the Welaka National Fish Hatchery Beecher Run unit.

There is a $2 per person day use fee. This can only be paid online, but you can do it in advance or afterwards if you do not want to do it at the entrance (there is a QR code there). Pay online here.

Wear clothing appropriate for the weather, bring water, insect repellant and sun protection.

We will have the option to visit the Welaka Fish Hatchery Aquarium after the walk. Then lunch in Crescent City at Three Bananas on Crescent Lake.

Note that this is a week later than our usual field trip date to avoid the early December holiday events.