08 FLORIDA
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
I do believe this bird could read. Washington
Oaks Gardens State Park is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Matanzas River to the west. On my adventures though the park I came upon this bait station. Something tells me this great blue heron had some previous luck with local fishers. Though I stood close to him, he paid no attention to me. It was as if he knew more bait was on the way.
BIRD-WATCHING
The 425-acre park is on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. See warblers in spring, swallow-tailed kites in summer, falcons in fall and plenty of shorebirds in winter.
STROLL THE GARDEN Azaleas, camellias, roses and birds of paradise grow in the formal garden, which is surrounded by elegant live oaks.
FISHING SPOTS
Cast a line from the park’s shoreline and wait for the fish to bite as waves rash at your feet (known as surf fishing). Or try your lu k at the seawall along the river.