Peacocks, chickens, and roosters were roaming throughout the surrounding area as we drove up to Cracker Creek at 1795 Taylor Road in Port Orange. Cracker Creek is a 20-acre site now a sanctuary once owned by Roland Johnson caretaker to the Gamble estate. All the buildings adjacent to the original cabin are privately owned.
Embark on the Key Largo, a pontoon boat at Cracker Creek Landing for a 1-hour boat ride on Spruce Creek. With Captain Larry at the helm and Jill as a guide she gave us an in-depth narrative of the area. Cracker Creek named for the early Spanish Cowboys.
In the late 1890s, James Gamble, founder of Procter & Gamble bought two hundred acres for use as a daytime hunting and fishing lodge for family and friends. Spruce Creek Airport was originally named Spruce Creek Township Fly-In. A private airport was once used as a remote field during World War II. Bill & Betty Russell Park, a private park for residents of Spruce Creek, the only access is by boat. Spruce Creek Preserve includes 2,200 acres of conservation land. Cruising toward the Williamson Bridge that the locals call Moody Bridge our guide pointed out the different trees that make up the Hardwood Hammocks and marshlands. Spanish moss also called Old Man’s Gray Beard found throughout the creek. Different species of Birds of prey, Jill pointing towards a Red Shouldered Hawk atop a tree.
Endangered Scrub jays, endangered Panthers, Herons, Alligators, and Bobcats are some of the animals that inhabit the area and are seen during the spring. After the boat ride, stay for a demonstration by Captain Larry of the unique styles of whips that the cowboys use.
Walk along the path to the Gamble Retreat and read the plaque about the replica of Snow White’s Cottage and adjacent structures. Pick up a brochure that lists the many services offered at Cracker Creek. I recommend the pontoon boat tour a very relaxing and informative tour. Admission prices and hours of operation on the website.
On The Road in Florida With Idelle! 