I saw my first alligator, he pulsing, sly eyed, jawing, moving slowly through vegetation. I pointed out an alligator. They scoffed and insisted he was a rock. Till he moved. I loved the old-fashioned quality of some of the trails, which reminded me of fusty New England natural history museums.
Older ones are bootless.
The winding, level, dirt trail also had signs that directed my attention to remarkable lichen displays. Rigorous recreation is also possible. More than 40 miles of trails snake through the park with primitive camping sites along the way, as well as camping areas for RVs and tents, and even some furnished log cabins. Canoeing is popular, as is fishing for bass, catfish, and bream. At the lake, a series of small concessions operate, including an outpost with camping supplies, souvenirs, and bike rentals.