Deep Creek stretches a little over five miles from the St. Johns River. At least that's about as far as one can paddle up it. After that, the creek becomes joked with logs. The put-in is at the bridge near the junction of Hwy 206 and 207, just outside of Hastings. There is a small boat ramp on the east side of the road. Once in the creek, you can paddle either southeast or northwest. Southeast takes you farther into the swamp from which Deep Creek is born. The creek gets narrow and the trees form an overhanging canopy. It's kind of spooky, but mesmerizing at the same time. If you paddle northwest from the boat ramp, the creek widens and leaves more room for maneuvering. Northwest is also the direction to paddle to get to the St. Johns River, which is about four miles away. You should plan on being in the boat for three to four hours straight, for there are no real good places to get out and stretch your legs. If you do find one, watch out for snakes.

If you read the Destination article in the previous newsletter about Moses Creek, you know what creeks in a marine environment are like. These creeks are surrounded by Saltmarsh Cordgrass and have oak and pine trees lining the banks. Deep creek is a freshwater creek, and therefore, supports a completely different ecosystem. In essence, it is a swamp. Instead of oak and pine trees, you will see primarily cypress trees. Instead of Saltmarsh Cordgrass, you will see Floating Hearts, lilies and a variety of other freshwater plants. Flowering plants are more abundant, which makes paddling Deep Creek in the spring and summer more magical. A camera is a must on this trip!

Along with different kinds of plants, one would expect to see different wildlife around a freshwater creek. However, much of the wildlife is the same. A lot of the same wading birds can be found such as the Great Blue Heron, American Egret and White Ibis. Osprey, Bald Eagles, Belted Kingfishers, cormorants and anhingas can also be found in both ecosystems. Of course, the list wouldn't be complete without mentioning the American Alligator. If you want to see big lizards, this is the place to go. Don't worry... like I said in the previous newsletter, alligators are usually docile animals, but can be dangerous if surprised or closely approached. Just be cautious. Deep Creek is wide enough so that if you paddle right in the middle, there is plenty of room to pass a gator without getting too close. With that said, I have to tell you that I have seen some of the most magnificent gators I have ever seen in Florida, on Deep Creek.

Not all of the animals are the same as what you would see in a marine environment. During my first trip to Deep Creek, I saw Wild Boar, Limpkins, River Otters and what I think was a Great Horned Owl. As far as fish go, depending on the time of year, you may see huge Longnose Gar jumping out of the water and Largemouth Bass striking on the surface. Of course, not all the wildlife around Deep Creek is harmless to a kayaker. Remember, this creek is basically a swamp and snakes love swamps. Be on alert for Cottonmouths! Though I have yet to see one there, I know they must be around. These are just some examples of what is out there, I can't even begin to tell you about all the variety to be seen along Deep Creek. You have to see it for yourself.

Aside from a tremendous amount of wildlife, flora and fauna, there is some neat history behind Deep Creek. During the early 1900's, cypress trees were logged out of the swamp around Deep Creek. What's interesting about this, is that they used to drag the trees to the creek, then float them out to the nearest railroad or sawmill. There is a spot along the creek where you can still see the slide trail where they drug the trees out. You will know it is the right spot when you see the old winch at the edge of the water. Plus, if you look real hard along the north bank, just east of the slide trail, you will see a line of old piling stumps where they tied the logs up for safe keeping. What did they do with all this Cypress, you might ask? The lumber was used in the framework of a house, in particular the roof. Many of the old houses still left standing, were built with Cypress. In fact, just around the corner from the mouth of Deep Creek, situated on Federal Point, is an old Hotel from the early 1900's. It once served as a steamboat landing for the ships coming south from Jacksonville to Palatka.

No doubt there are some stories from back then about how big the fish used to get up in Deep Creek. Recently, I've heard of some good size Largemouth Bass coming out of there. Those of you who love to fish for bass would have a huge advantage in a kayak. There are many places were the bass are that you can't get to in a motor boat. Lots of downed trees in the creek provide excellent structure for bass to hide under, but create havoc for a motor.

Whether you are there for the fishing or just to explore a true Florida swamp, Deep Creek provides. When you go, make sure you are prepared. Be safe, take plenty of water, clothing and a first aid kit. Take a camera and binoculars so you don't miss a single Kodak moment. Be kind, bring back more trash than you brought. But above all, have fun!

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