It's a Small size geocache, with difficulty of 1.5, terrain of 1.5. Head out to the island paradise for a few days and enjoy a getaway! This offers a breath-taking opportunity to pass them at a closer distance. The parking is ample, if the oceanfront lot is full, you can park across the street at the education center, Pets are not allowed at the Blowing Rocks Preserve. From hidden coves and dramatic natural features to elaborate gardens and quirky general stores, here is a compilation The Goblin Market is an eclectic bistro that is a must-visit for anyone near the charming town of Mount Dora. Come experience the elegance and grandeur of the Biltmore by taking a tour of America's largest home. { Towards the southern end of the preserve, the rocks are worn into shapes not much higher than the sand and erosion has caused bowl-like holes and swirling lumps. Wild Florida: Hidden Gem! Nearby to the trail is the Nights of Lights. A stunning display of lights is only minutes from the Lightner Museum. Besides selling a diverse selection of quilts hand-stitched on . You can easily drive there and park in one of the fields parking lots. The springs provide excellent swimming opportunities, as well as hiking, fishing and camping. Winter Park is one of the highlights for adults looking to visit Orlando and find many great things to do in this area. Located on Powers Avenue, the quality of the bread is so good that The French Pantry also supplies to other local eateries. Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Snorkeling and scuba diving are absolute musts if you visit, as well as fishing or kayaking along the emerald and aqua waters. A horse-pulled wagon ride brings you near to the rear of the property that houses the wildlife sanctuary and petting farm. Here you can explore natural springs, swim with manatees in the wild, and, explore the second-largest mangrove in the world, the Ten Thousand Islands. Miami Hidden Gems and Secret Places to Visit in South Florida. 21 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Miami, Florida Updated January 30, 2023 Share Tweet Email Some of the caves are tall enough to stand in, with natural benches formed by the erosive power of the tides. This charming city north of Orlando offers lots of cute shops, restaurants, and parks to stroll through, as well as an excellent Saturday morning farmers market and cultural landmarks like the Morse Museum, which holds the most comprehensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany's works in the world. Cool off later with a dip at the Blue Hole Spring, or go for a hike. If you love finding the beaten path in Florida, Bean Point Beach is the perfect beach for you. On this preserve on Jupiter Island, you'll see waves breaking on huge limestone formations, sending sprays up to 50 feet in the air. With 24 miles of picturesque coastline, it offers plenty of activities in the summer. 20. Steinhatchee Falls. Explore the Honeymoon Island State Park, 2. You need to walk across the muddy lagoon and through some water to reach the beach, but it is so worth it. Universal Studios is comprised of themed areas, rides, and experiences. Head further down the Rainbow River to go tubing, and bring your hiking shoes to hit the trails, or your bike if you are a cyclist. This amazing museum is the state art museum of Florida, yet it tends to get bypassed by tourists, ensuring it ranks on the list as one of the must-see hidden gems in Florida. 23 miles west of Austin, you can find it off of Highway 71, one of the best hidden gems in the south USA. Dry Tortugas is a great destination that combines the beautiful coastlines of Florida with a splash of history, and it is home to some great snorkeling exploration in the United States. How To Visit Caladesi Island State Park in Florida, according to a Local! If you love nature, Blue Springs is the place to be. Thanks for the ideas. Drive iconic scenic coastal highway 30A to discover a variety of the coolest Florida beach towns. The seats in the front of the airboat will drench you with swampy water. A beach in Florida where you can actually get some alone time is rare indeed. Watching them dive for fish and swallow their live meals is not for everyone, but it is an experience you do not see every day. Go Kayak to Caladesi Island a real gem in Florida, 3. ! Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. This is a real off-the-beaten path in Florida, even for us, locals. It stretches for 4 miles from the North tip of the Island to Dunedin Pass. The Leu House Museum is inside the Welcome Center and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. EST. In 1947, it was converted into a sort of natural aquarium, and a waterpark was added nearby to make this place a water adventure destination. To really enjoy everything that the Ringling has to offer I would recommend at least 1 full day dedicated to it. The prices are reasonable and discounts can be found on Groupon to make it even cheaper. Another hidden gem and a surprising one at that. I will definitely consult this post before my next visit to Florida. Explore the trails and go to a campfire circle, where the rangers give talks and put on a slide slow. Designated as a national park by President Franklin Roosevelt, this incredible destination is only accessible via seaplane or boat, preserving its nature and isolation. No matter the size, the houseboats are an incredibly unique experience, and they enable you to listen to the ocean waves and marine life as you rest. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from Qualifying Purchases. The centerpiece of the Circus Museum is a 3,800 square-foot operational Circus Model, a 44,000-piece re-creation of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Baileys Circus combined shows from 1919 to 1938. This incredible hidden gem in Florida is a coral reef located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, just southeast offshore of the island of Key Largo. Discover 15 hidden attractions, cool sights, and unusual things to do in Tampa from Dysfunctional Grace Art Co. to Two-Headed Gator of Seminole Heights. Are you ready!? However, some alligators will sun themselves directly on the pavement. Make this a nice afternoon coffee and snack break the next time youre in Jacksonville! 12306 46th Avenue W., Cortez, FL 34215. If you are not comfortable with camping, you can rent a cabin which is pretty affordable. On land, there are often birds and forms of wildlife to observe. Meet my friend Rafiki at the giraffe feeding station. event : evt, Near the Georgia border, this way out-of-the-way park is located where the Flint River and the Chattahoochee combine to form Lake Seminole above a dam. Manatee sightings are very common during Manatee season when water activities are restricted. Folly Beach, South Carolina. Another tree makes the list of hidden gems in St. Augustine. It was created by a group of artists and features incredible pieces of arts. Pop it in your convenient map system and it will bring you right there. Dry Tortugas is only accessible by boat or seaplane, and the National Park is well-knowing for the magnificent Fort Jefferson, the stunning blue waters, the incredible coral reefs, and the rich marine life. The mornings are beautiful, and from the houseboat, I could eat my breakfast while watching the pelicans eat theirs. Hey Paula, this is an excellent round up. Florida has tons of attractions that you wont find anywhere else in the world, and no, were not talking about Disney World. If you love the ocean and marine life, this is the experience of a lifetime. The trail is paved and has a wide variety of options for people of any activity level. Put on your fancy pants and head to this tres chic cafe in Jacksonville that has been an icon for over 20 years. Green Springs is a popular location for locals in Volusia County, Florida. Once you arrive, the fee is $6.00 per vehicle, and you can stay until sundown. It is a unique location in Florida that is ideal for history buffs and anybody who enjoys a beautiful city with various activities and sights. Dont disturb the animals, especially the manatees. we just happen to be in the neighborhood she showed us around even gave us some small free vegetables please come and visit them true Florida people real locals. Encompassing more than 200 acres, this garden also features the Singing Tower, a 205 foot structure built on Iron Mountain, one of the highest points on the Florida Peninsula. 2. Going kayaking to this paradise is considered one of the best things to do in Florida. Gasparilla Island is a lovely little piece of the Florida Gulf Coast barrier islands and a genuine Florida gem. Dry Tortugas National Park is a stunning place to visit for people of all ages. It has on-street parking, so be sure to factor that into your plans. I cant believe how much there is to do in Florida! The swirling of your hand or the paddle stroke ignites the bioluminescence. })(); I am a Bodybuilder athlete and adventure seeker always on the lookout for authentic experiences especially if it involves active and adventure travel! Did you know you can ride a horse at the beach in Florida? There is no rush, as the entire garden can be covered easily in one day. It is a great location to visit and a must-do experience if you are nearby to this area during your visit. Cormorants flutter over you in the mangroves, along with many other extensive types of birds. Dining venues within the Ringling may be closed during the pandemic but there are 2 picnic facilities available. What a great destination for kids, families, couples and friends. Some of the most unique things to do in Florida are often right under our noses! This little restaurant has Italian food as good as you wish your mama made. The Manatee Sanctuary Park in Cocoa Beach is a must-see for those looking to explore the magnificent underwater world of Florida. ACCOMMODATION: A great option is the Siesta Key Palms Resort, featuring 2 outdoor pools and on-site BBQ facilities, and it is only 9.6 mi from the Ringling Museum. Learn a little more about history here: some of the land that is now the state park was formerly part of the Underground Railroad network that helped many fugitive slaves to escape to the Bahamas to freedom. Read More: The Best Things to do in Orland for Adults. Kelly Rock Springs is definitely one of Florida's best hidden gems. A half-hour tour gives you plenty of time to enjoy the wild ride and see alligators. } Manatee Sanctuary Park. The truth is, we live in a vast state, so of course, no single list could gather all of the best hidden gems in Florida. Molasses Reef is hard to miss from the surface since a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather station is located right next to it. One of those happens to be a tarantula. From May through October, Juno Beach is the densest sea turtle nesting ground in the world. The Three Sisters Springs - one of the best spots to see manatees. They have numerous animals to view and learn about, such as baby alligators, turtles, tortoises, lizards, and other marine life. The ancient ravines on this land have been transformed into a rustic, tropical garden for all to enjoy. It is run by Bob Hawkins, who originally started the swimming hole for his children and later retired and began managing it as more and more children heard of his fantastic rope swings and river access. Cool off later with a dip at the Blue Hole Spring, or go for a hike. Marathon may not be as well-known as other tourist destinations in Florida, but it's a hidden gem that's definitely worth . The Gold Coast Railroad Museum is certainly not one of Miami's most popular but that doesn't mean it's not worth visiting. There are three campgrounds in the State Park that consist of 80 campsites where you pitch your tent or park your RV. Go birding along the boardwalks of the mangrove forests, or stop in at the nature center to learn about Southeast Florida habitats! 2: Fort Bragg, California. Have a relaxing picnic here surrounded by nature, or go jogging, hiking or biking along the gardens to cover more ground. DelacaSeas Cafe: Great hidden gem - See 218 traveler reviews, 112 candid photos, and great deals for Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL, at Tripadvisor. If you dont have your own horse, you can go on a. If you want to venture off the beaten path so to speak and discover some of Floridas secret treasures we have you covered. Enjoy some time at this true Florida gem, showing that beauty can be created from storms. Open every day from Memorial Day through Labor Day, in the off season Rainbow Springs is only accessible on the weekends. At its core, the attractions in Florida are a huge draw for visitors. Im Paula, a fitness athlete, and adventure seeker always on the lookout for authentic experiences especially if it involves active and adventure travel! ACCOMMODATION: The best place to stay is at Everglades City at the Ivey House an eco-friendly hotel only 15 minutes walk from the main attractions. The prime months to visit Florida, generally suggested by many Floridians, are March, April, and May, because the weather is not too high or low. Both parks are easy to get to by car and can be toured within a couple of hours. Why go: Great camping on a beautiful lake with many options for hiking, biking and paddling. The beauty of Honeymoon Island is that its very well preserved, and you can easily spend the whole day here. TOP TIPS FOR EXPLORING WEEKI WACHEE RIVER. For the best conditions, head to either spot in the winter. It is only 20 minutes northeast of downtown Orlando, Winter Park gained its name after the arrival of the South Florida Railroad in 1880. Courtesy of Florida Tourism 3. To get there, hop on the Beaches Trolley bus which runs by all the best beaches in Jacksonville. There are left and right-hand breaks. TIPS TO VISIT THE FALLING WATER STATE PARK, ACCOMMODATION: There is a Quality Inn close by, which is a good option if you are visiting the park, And with all the diversity, did you expect to also find this hidden gem in Florida? You can take a ferry from Honeymoon Island or Clearwater Beach to go visit Caladesi Island. Juno Beach is one of my favorite places to visit in Florida. You can also see a restored Byzantine-Romanesque chapel that was also designed by Tiffany himself for the 1893 Worlds Columbian Exposition. A nice break from your typical Florida beach town, Anna Maria Island will be that beachy escape that leaves you feeling rested. 7908 Three Rivers Park Rd, Sneads, FL 32460. Visit what might be the only cave painting in Florida, and enjoy the waterfalls at the Falling Waters Sink, where the water cascades down into a 100ft sinkhole. Flickr/Greg Workman for Florida Fish and Wildlife, Flickr/Meagan Perosha for U.S. Department of Agriculture, Flickr/Scott Ball for Florida Fish and Wildlife. Cow Key is a quick drive into the more popular areas of Key West, and there are almost unlimited activities. There are no traffic lights, no chain restaurants or hotels. One of the most unique attractions in Sarasota is The Ringling the sprawling estate of the kings of the circus, the Ringlings, the owners of Ringling Bros., and Barnum & Bailey Circus that was producing the Greatest Show on Earth from 1871 till 2017. Visit to see the wildlife or to rent a boat and enjoy the ocean. Overall, St. Augustine offers such an immense display of beauty and activity that has something for everyone. Overall, Gatorland is nothing short of incredible and you can remain safe while exploring the land and visiting the enclosures that are filled with such dangerous beasts. Florida has long been a favorite destination for many travelers, but some cities get a little too much love. Chris Cook-Leitz has worked in the travel industry since 2008 and opened her own travel advisor company in 2015. If you are adventure-minded and looking for an off-the-beaten-path in Florida, I will highly recommend camping in Bahia Honda State Park, one of thebest campgrounds in Florida. The park is located near an energy plant. Coral Castle is a limestone structure located in Homestead, Florida. window.mc4wp.listeners.push( Go swim with Manatees at Crystal River, 8. I highly recommend listening to the suggestions from the staff as it was a rough ride in January when I went. You can also follow the signs at the Indian River Lagoon boardwalk to learn more about the nature that calls Blowing Rocks Preserve home. 25 Hidden Gems on East Coast: Vacation Spots in USA Meet The Disney Experts. 2) Alligator Kayaking Safari in Rocks Springs Run. TIPS TO VISIT THE SINKHOLES IN GAINESVILLE. This colorful beach town is still under the radar and hidden between Pensacola and Tallahassee. In addition to the beautiful manatees, the park hosts a variety of other wildlife, including fish, birds, and other creatures. The beach is pristine, with crystal water, and white sands, surrounded by nature and framed with the blue sky almost all year long. On the way back, about 90% of the passengers purchased it. Crystal River State Park in Citrus County, FL. It is located in Kissimmee and is a moderate trip from downtown Orlando. Ten Thousand Islands in Florida is for anyone looking for an authentic adventure while enjoying some solitude, and being immersed in nature, and for anyone who seeks off-the-beaten-path destinations. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is one of my favorite places to bring the kids; the mermaids are back! There is a 0.9-mile sidewalk that enables guests to stroll around the lake and view the swans, turtles, and abundance of life. Located in South Florida since 1957, the Gold Coast Railroad Museum is still one of the best hidden gems in Miami. ACCOMMODATION: A great option is the Residence Inn By Mariott, featuring an outdoor pool, fitness center, bar, and lounge. Founded by Spaniards who came to the New World, they founded fishing ranches out on islands like Cayo Costa, which was settled by Tervio Padilla in the 1870s until the government claimed his land. She specializes in booking Disney and . They are open year-round, but summer months are particularly hot so you wont see as much wildlife. Check out our list of the best hidden gems in Florida and start planning your next getaway! Ravine Gardens State park is located in Palatka, Florida and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. During these months, be prepared to bring a rain jacket and umbrella because the rain can be fierce. Located near Clearwater and St Petersburg, Honeymoon Island is one of the best off the beaten path in Florida! Palma Sola Bay is located on Anna Maria Island. On my trip, approximately 1/3 of the passengers bought Dramamine on the way to the island. What an inspiring list! The adventurous ride goes fast and makes a lot of sharp turns, which throw water all over the boat. 4. Funny 1. 3. Falling Waters near Chipley, FL, is home to the tallest waterfall (and one of very few, period) in the state of Florida. Everything moves at a relaxed pace the police even drive around in golf carts instead of cruisers! There are also ample opportunities to go birding or view other diverse kinds of wildlife, or go fishing, snorkeling, kayaking or swimming. He claimed that magnets had helped heal him from tuberculosis, and spend over 28 years building the Coral Castle. Pack up your sunscreen and camera, and get ready to explore the hidden gems of Florida. I would love it if you could follow me on Pinterest and share this guide on my social media. Ebyabe CC by SA 3.0. - Opting Out of Normal. The city of Gainesville is located in north-central Florida, a little less than two hours from Orlando. The Rose Garden is central and you can spiral out from there. Go Kayak to Caladesi Island - a real gem in Florida Caladesi Island was elected the #1 Beach in 2018. Donated to the state in 1962, Falling Waters is a great nature retreat. Once on shore, Dry Tortugas Island displays stunningly clear blue waters and the opportunity to explore Fort Jefferson and its history. 30 Best Resorts in Florida for Couples for a Romantic Getaway, 20 Best Places to Retire in Florida For Your Golden Years. It gets cold when you are speeding and soaked, so it was an ideal time slot for my husband and me. Since the opening of the canoe outfitter at the headsprings, Weeki Wachee is very popular and can be crowded especially on weekends. Where Caladesi was once a separate island, a few years ago, and deposits connected it to Clearwater Beach. Really? Rent a kayak and explore the coastline on your own, or take a boat tour out to the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary enclosed in the park. When you arrive, there may be a line of vehicles already waiting. The park offers swimming, snorkeling, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing in some parts of its beautiful blue springs. Pine Island is also home to three aquatic preserves, providing ample day trips or activities for nature enthusiasts. Best of all there is something to do here for everyone, whether looking to tube . Miami is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Florida with a number of well-known attractions, pristine beaches, and unique art and culture scenes like Art Deco buildings and Wynwood graffiti; Furthermore, the Everglades and the Florida Keys are on the outskirt of the city center that is only a few-hour drive away. However, the park restricts water activities in the spring and spring run, which is effective through April of this year. The State Park is open from 8a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. It is also much less buggy earlier in the day, so instead of having to use as much bug spray, you may want sunblock and a lot of water. There are numerous other activities, including the gator zip lines, adventure hour where you get up close and personal with the alligators, and other shows where you can see the alligator wrangler catch and control an alligator, holding its jaw up with his chin. The Weeki Wachee is known for its stunning beauty, with the clarity at the headsprings being 68- feet of visibility, ranking with the clearest freshwaters found on Earth! In the heart of the Everglades and mangrove islands lies the remote, wild Tigertail Beach. TripAdvisor Cindy R. While Florida might not have too many waterfalls worth checking out, Steinhatchee Falls is a hidden gem that outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy. There are numerous other activities within the national park, but this was the highlight of the trip for my husband and me. The Bean Point Beach is located at the furthest north point on Anna Maria Island, and you can enter it at a crossroad on North Bay Blvd. We go every year to see my in laws in Florida and we are always looking for new corners of the state to explore. If they offer Dramamine, you will likely need it unless you are used to extremely rough waters. It is a free access location with a lovely view of the lake. Among other exhibits are American art pottery and early 2th century American paintings and graphics. Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures is the perfect place to get a great Florida feel. If you are a gardener or anyone who enjoys the beauty of nature, Harry P. Leu Gardens should be at the top of your list when you visit Florida. It is recommended to go on a cooler summer day, to use sunscreen, and take a rest in the shaded areas to avoid sunburns. Have a refreshing swim at Juniper Springs or Alexander Springs, both popular in the summer with locals and in the winter with manatees! Explore 26 hidden and unique gems in the Fort Lauderdale area, including the best attractions, farmers markets, dive bars, restaurants and nightlife spots. It is recommended to ask questions about the variety of animals at the ranch. This spot is easily one of the best hidden gems in Florida. Hurricanes, age, neglect, and other factors destroyed most of the structures but there are still some to see. The most exciting part about the Shark Valley Loop Trail is traveling past the numerous alligators along the loop. There are many unique animals, some of which are extremely friendly and playful during the guided petting zoo tour. The key lime icebox cup is amazing, made with whipped cream, cream . The morning or early afternoon is ideal to enjoy Green Springs, the connected walking/biking trails, and all that it has to offer. I will most likely have to write a second revision of this post soon. Gatorland also sells alligator snacks that enable you to feed the alligators. Harry P. Leu Gardens is a stunning Botanical Garden found in the heart of Central Florida. I know Florida like the back of my hand, which is why I am sharing the top off the beaten path in Florida that you need to add to your bucket list! What To Do The park reaches capacity quickly. A 4 1/2 mile walk on Pine Island Trail allows for the sightings of these delightful animals. Come visit to see if you can figure out how he managed to move these tons of rock, or simply to enjoy the curious features of the property: a sundial, stone furniture, obelisk and fountain. Its warm and dry! When you enter the Gardens, it feels like a whole different planet. ACCOMMODATION: Waterfront Beach Home is a wonderful 3 bedroom and 2 bathroom house on the water. You can see a wide variety of birdlife, coral reefs, and ocean life that are best seen when snorkeling but can also be viewed through the clear water without entering it. You can enjoy the local seafood restaurants, try Hogfish, rent jet skis and kayaks, and enjoy the shops and other experiences and views near or in Key West. Swap Shop has over 2,000 vendors for 180,00 square feet of shopping, restaurants, farmers markets with tons of local produce, and one of the world's largest drive-in movie theaters. The Falling Water State Park is home to Floridas tallest natural waterfall, which rushes 73 feet down the wall of a massive sinkhole. Check out their amusement rides and farmers market as well, or catch a film on one of the largest drive-in movie theatres in the state! The Gardens are open from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. daily, with no entrance after 4:00 P.M. EST. The desserts are especially scrumptious, especially the cheesecake! Ten Thousand Islands boat tour is the highlight of your visit, as you can see the islands and the wildlife, and I recommend. Photo courtesy of Visit Florida Explore Florida Caverns State Park . Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Miami, Florida. Our Top Hidden Gems! There are greenhouses where various species of butterflies are bred from egg laying through hatching. 4. Head to a 1920's era fish house called Star Fish Company where you'll find a dockside, hole-in-the-wall-style eatery and market where the catch of the day was swimming just minutes before hitting your plate. Florida's Emerald Coast comprises a few of the Sunshine State's best-kept secrets. Better weather would make for a smoother ride. The property is located in Merritt Island, Florida, about one hour from Orlando. . Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for a day of exploring the caves and appreciating nature. Once you cross it, you will have to pay the state park entrance fee ($8 per vehicle) but its well worth it! Get more stories delivered right to your email. A curious structure built by an even more curious man, the craftsmanship is so detailed and the setup of the estate really is a marvel for one man to achieve on his own. This river makes you a sense of enchantment, as the mild 5-mile-per-hour current carries your kayak downstream, and each winding curve reveals a vista of lush greenery in the middle of magnificent nature. It was recently created in the last several years by the strong Hurricane Wilma winds. Explore the Ten Thousand Island Wildlife Refugee, 7. Top off your relaxing visit with a stroll along the Pine Ridge Trail to fully appreciate this magical place, and dont forget your camera. A great perk of the onboard casino is that it offers a variety of chances to try your hand at poker and the slot machines while being served free beverages as long as you are inside. Flickr/psyberartist. Come out for a day trip of watersports and hiking, or bring your camping gear to spend a few days in this paradise. If you have your own kayak, plan at least 2 hours to go on the dark water to see this magnificent experience. Amish Community. The Singing Tower was constructed next to a reflection pool and is surrounded by a koi pond moat. There are so many reasons to visit gorgeous Chincoteague, Virginia and it definitely is one of the hidden gems of the United States. Perhaps I am biased, as I moved to Florida 16 years ago and I call this place home. They include Perdido, Pensacola Beach, Grayton Beach State Park, Henderson Beach, State Park, Inlet Beach (next to Panama City Beach), Rosemary Beach, and others mentioned below. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { By Victoria from Florida Trippers. Tours are by appointment only. A true definition of a hidden gem, many Floridians have never heard of Crystal River. It is easy to navigate the various areas of the garden, which are separated by name on the map. This Urban Wilderness Area features a great many different trees native to Florida, including cypress, maple, mangrove, and a laurel oak hammock. DeLand, southwest of Daytona Beach, is a small town with a big city feel and my favorite downtown in Florida. The BBQ is delectable and very convenient after an exhilarating airboat ride. It is a tiny hole-in-the-wall local secret that only has six tables in the dining room, where its Napolitano owners eagerly await their customers. I traveled via the Yankee Freedom Ferry which is roughly a 2 1/2 hour trip each way, pun intended. He was the only member of the Yamato Colony, a small community of Japanese farmers, to stay in the area after World War II, and the compound was created in his honor. On the bright side, Blue Springs State Park is not all about water activities.
