04 November 2019
Catching up on Pre-Pandemic Adventures
0932 27,373 miles – Leave Georgia’s Crooked River State Park 71°
The road from here south crosses over inlets and marshes level with the Atlantic Ocean. Snowy egrets weren’t bothered by a morning fisherman zipping towards the beach.
At 1008 we crossed the border and pulled into the Florida Welcome Center. Stopping here has become a tradition where jackets are put away and we get out to stretch our legs in the warm air.
Another reason to stop here has been a complimentary cup of fresh Florida orange juice. Sadness precipitated when we learned that the juice counter is unmanned and now advertises fishing. Apparently the citrus group lost their funding and there has been no free juice since July.
Looking for an alternate route south to I-95, we elected to explore the eastern side of the the St Johns River. By lunch time we were in Green Cove Springs where we found, the aptly named, Spring Park. Following the path, we found pretty waterfalls that led to a covered picnic area, changing rooms and a spring fed pool.
An in depth analysis of the water was posted for all to see.
Nestled in the far corner of the pool complex was the actual spring. Waters were so clear we first thought the rocks were on shore.
Old Florida buildings nestled with live oaks and palm trees surrounded the park.
Downtown was only one street over from the spring. We walked to the historic Clay Theatre. Expecting it to be a venue for live performances, we were surprised to find it is now used primarily for wedding receptions.
A little bit of Hollywood style was embedded in the sidewalk to commemorate the preservation of the old theatre.
Circling back to the park, we found the public marina.
Although a long way up stream from the ocean, this area offers boaters good protection and access to town. Fifteen years ago we went up this river to Jacksonville in sailing vessel Intuition where we had a good time visiting museums and enjoying restaurants.
At 1335 we were cruising around Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park picking out a campsite.
We chose site #13, with electric & water, for $22.40. Sites were nicely spaced, level, and had plenty of room for rigs bigger than ours.
It wasn’t long before we saddled up the bikes and were off exploring the park.
Touring the campground loops, we met Jack & John, new owners of a Lexor (only 3 months) from S. Florida. Unfortunately, their 3-way fridge was not working on DC. We showed them how to check the circuit breaker, but that wasn’t a problem.
Checking behind the fridge, the fuse was good and all the wiring appeared to be tight. Didn’t have time for more in-depth troubleshooting, so they will call Pleasure-Way to get to the bottom of the problem. I wish we had asked them to report back on the solution.
Back at the campground, we utilized the bath house to clean-up from our bike ride. The facilities are older, but are clean and well-maintained.
A few folks have asked if we can open the rear doors when the 1Up bike rack is attached. The answer is yes, if we take the bikes off and lower the hinged section of the rack. Here’s a view of the door open with the rack in the lowered position.
Set for bike transport, the rack is the most solid we have found.
If we travel without the bikes, the rack swings up to minimize the length of our rig.
One last photo, shows the rack from the rear in the up position.
Today’s travel map from Georgia into Florida.