Payne's Creek State Park

Payne's Creek is in Bowling Green, just outside of Fort Meade.

http://www.floridastateparks.org/paynescreek/default.cfm

What a great day for exploring something new!

The sculptural form of this still life caught my eye.

I love the contrast in color and texture.

Most trails here are unpaved and sandy.

A touch of color here and there helped us remember

that God is the only caretaker needed in this natural setting.

The shallow water was moving surprisingly fast.

The alligator warning signs kept our toes out of the creek.

One of the highlights of this park is the suspension bridge.

We'd never been on one before.

Even the lil' guy (who is sometimes leery of heights)

was willing to venture across.

It shakes, rattles and rolls as you make your way over.

So cool!

Here's the view from the top of the bridge.

Lushness abounds.

The stillness is almost sacred.

It was a clear day. 

And very tropical feeling...

We stopped at the visitor center to get more information.

The air conditioning felt good too!

Inside the main building,

you'll find a replica of what the forts looked like.

Historical relics found on site rest here.

Plenty of places to sit and just take in the serenity...

Can't think of a nicer setting to have a picnic lunch.

We feel blessed to be able to enjoy the wonders of nature

right in our own backyard.