Destin has a lot to offer, and although its beaches are world-famous and its seafood delicious, there are hundreds of hidden treasures in the surrounding area of Northwest Florida that yield for fun adventures, day trips and weekend getaways. This column which will be featured on Wednesdays, will follow the wanderings of reporter, Savannah Vasquez, and explore the many opportunities in Destin’s surrounding area. I invite you to explore with me Beyond Destin.
Since beginning this column I have found that some of Northwest Florida’s most well kept secrets seem to be its rivers, springs, creeks and lakes. Many are familiar with the white sand beaches but with such an amazing coastline, many miss the wonders of the Florida’s other waterways. One such place that is a favorite for many locals in the area is Turkey Creek Nature Trail and Pavilion in Niceville.
Turkey Creek offers a leisurely 3/4-mile boardwalk path that follows the creek through a swamp-land forest and ends at a canoe launching dock. The day Cristian, my sister Trinity, and I visited Turkey Creek we brought along some inner-tubes and at the launching dock we hopped into the water for a nice mile-long lazy river ride.
The creek is always chilly, so even in the dead of summer be prepared for a cool landing when jumping into the creek. After acclimating to the water we meandered along the creek in our tubes. The slow pace of the creek pulled us along but we found that in some points we had to paddle around felled branches and in a few places swim against currents that tried to pull us towards the bank of the creek.
After floating about half of a mile, we started passing small docks on the side of the creek bed. Some used these docks as a place to sit and relax and watch others jump into the creek, and some used the docks as a launching point for a quick float down to the head of the creek.
A word of warning: If you are not a good swimmer, make sure to wear a life jacket, because swimming in Turkey Creek is unpatrolled and the currents are swift in some areas. For example, we decided to get out of the water at one dock and jump back in, but when we tried to swim back to the dock, we found the current so strong that we had to float down to the next dock before we could get out again. Also, make sure you know where the end of the park is, and get out of the creek before you pass the final dock. If you miss the dock, the creek will take you under a bridge and across the street, and it will be hard to climb out and make your way back to the park.
If you do not feel up to swimming or canoeing, the boardwalk makes for a nice nature walk as signs along the way point out the vegetation. There is also a pavilion at the end of the boardwalk, if you take the left fork just before the canoe launch deck. Here you will find a memorial covered in plaques and flowers called the “Path of Memories,” that honors families who have lost a child.
TurkeyCreek is also a great place for an event or barbeque, as the pavilion at the entrance offers several grills, picnic tables and even a stone fireplace. The pavilion is first come first served so make sure to come early if planning to host an event. So, when the next sunny day comes by, head to Turkey Creek with your floats and your picnic, and enjoy a day on the lazy river in old Northwest Florida style.
WANNA GO?
Turkey Creek is located at