A decision last year to start visiting Florida State Parks has turned into a way to create more local adventures. Recently, I stopped at a park I drive by all the time – Red Bug Slough Preserve. It is not a State Park, rather it is a county park. It was created as part of protecting an environmentally sensitive area. A sign at the park says this area used to be referred to as “skeeter drain.” I’m guessing because of the all the water it is quite a home to mosquitos. When the area floods, it drains into Philippe Creek.

Fortunately, the day I walked the trails it was cool so no bugs – neither red bugs or mosquitos. The Muhly grass was blooming along the water way. The trails are mostly sandy as you enter a small scrub forest. There is a small dock and picnic table. Lots of people walking their dogs. A nice small park within a residential area which seems to be well used by the neighbors.