Mon., Feb. 10, Paddle Babcock-Webb, Punta Gorda

Babcock-Webb Wildlife "Management" Area (translate that "Hunting" Area) is really a beautiful place...outside of hunting season. I stay out of there Nov. 1 to Jan. 31.

Babcock-Webb is about 66,000 acres of pretty scenery, including 4-5 miles of connected lakes, surrounded by wet pinelands with lots of birds. We'll make a big loop through the lakes and keep the paddle under 8 miles total. I have paddled there 4 times, so I don't think we'll get TOO lost....maybe just a little.

There are restrooms fairly close to the ramp. There are picnic tables scattered along the road around the lake area. You can drive/bike about 5 miles on an asphalt road along the lakes.

My favorite restaurant, Peace River Seafood, is just off I-75 Exit 164...right on the way home from Exit 158.

If you are under 65, there is a $3 entrance fee, payable at the "iron ranger."

As always, no guests on paddles.

DIRECTIONS: From I-75, take Exit 158, which is the Tuckers Grade/Cecil B. Webb exit. At the end of the off ramp, take a left at the Babcock-Webb Wildlife Management sign. Go ¼ mile east to the Park entrance/Iron Ranger, go straight ahead to a building and turn right along the paved lake road. Pass the restrooms on the right and maybe 200 yards after that, see a boat ramp on the left. Look for my bright blue Dodge Caravan.

From Hwy. 41 go south through Punta Gorda and through the Burnt Store/Jones Loop traffic lights. Continue south 3 miles to the flashing lights and take a left (east). Follow the signs to I-75 and SCR 672 East (about 2 miles.) Go under I-75 and continue for about ¼ mile to the Park entrance.