Florida Caverns State Park

As we hit the panhandle of Florida, staying a few nights in the Florida Caverns State Park provides a new adventure. While the caverns are small compared to others we have seen, they are alive and well. These limestone caverns are a great example of the former water level in Florida which at one time covered the state. Along with the usual stalactites, flowstone and soda straws, the cave holds several examples of the watery origin with fossilized shells and a shark tooth. Even a small bat had his nap interrupted by the tour. The park has an area called the blue Hole, a sink that empties into the Chipola River providing a place for people to swim (if they dare) but with the recent flooding the waters are high and fast, plus we have seen several gators along the banks. The park was developed during the Great Depression and built by the CCC. Laborers were paid a $1 per day as a part of the US attempt to put people back to work, giving them food and shelter while making the parks and public lands better for everyone. What a concept. The workers excavated tons of rock and soil to further open the cave's interior. Electricity was included during the process for lighting. To boost the low level light the workers used dinner plates to enhance the gas lights during installation of electric lights. Reflection from the plates boosted the low light conditions and are still in place today. They also build the stone visitors center and other facilities in the park.