NOT Just for Campers
Here’s some history you might want to know . . . The partnership between the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, Inc. and the Florida Park Service for a Conservation Camp in Florida has a long history. From 1945 to 1952, Conservation Camp moved around the state from the North in O’Leno State Park, Gold Head Branch State Park, and Fort Clinch State Park to the South in Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. From 1959 to 1972, Junior Nature Camps were located in the Ocala National Forest and O’Leno State Park. This longstanding history created the groundwork for a successful partnership with the Florida Department of Natural Resources, Division of Recreation and Parks for a permanent home at Wekiwa Springs State Park (a 6,000 acre unimproved property the State purchased from the Apopka Sportsmen’s Club in 1969) for a summer children’s camp for conservation and nature study. The Districts located around the State of the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, Inc. started building the infrastructure with each District raising money for a camper cabin so Wekiva Youth Camp could open in 1974.
As you prepare for coming to Wekiva Youth Camp, here’s some interesting details that you might like to enjoy:
- Map of Wekiva Youth Camp: complete with Cabin Names
- Hiking Trails in Wekiwa Springs State Park: to give you a perspective of the size of the habitat (Not to worry, Campers are NOT hiking around unaccompanied.)
- Cabin Names: for a little background on our Florida history
Additionally, you have an excellent chance of catching a glimpse of some of the wildlife that we share space with. Here’s some additional information about a few of the species that you might get to see:
- Gopher Tortoise: crossing your path or strolling down the road
- White-Tailed Deer: usually seen in the early morning or as the sun sets; often close to the cabins
- Florida Black Bear: not often, as they avoid our loudness; maybe you’ll see one on a night ride
- Zebra Longwing Butterfly: look for these close to the Craft Hall
Additionally, here’s some good advice from the experts: