The Kissimmee area might be best known for its major theme parks, including Walt Disney World, and the other many attractions that Orlando has to offer. However, the Kissimmee Chain is also one of the …
Camp Mack, a Florida Original
28 Oct 202011:53 AM
“It isn’t as it used to be in the old times. Then everybody traveled by steamboat …” wrote Mark Twain in his great American novel, Life on the Mississippi. And so it was for the Kissimmee River in Central Florida at the turn of the 19th century. With the end of the Seminole Wars, the opening of Florida to commercial trade had begun.
Soldiers, native Seminoles and hardy pioneers all looking to make a future or fortune settled along the winding Kissimmee, where steamboats and stallions connected the great watershed of Central Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. Fish camps, cow camps and trading outposts dotted the shorelines — the truck stops, convenience stores and motels of their day. In a stand of dense oak trees, oering welcome shade from Florida’s brutal summer sun, one such outpost arose on the north bank of Lake Kissimmee. It would become simply known as Camp Mack.
Roughly a century later, it would become Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina and RV Resort. Established on the grounds of Fort Gardiner, once commanded by U.S. Army Col. and future 12th President of the United States Zachary Taylor, Camp Mack’s riverfront setting was well known among all who called the Kissimmee River home — especially among the colorful steamboat captains who kept the wheels of commerce turning … paddle wheels to be clear.
To read more of the story visit Guy Harvey Magazine feature article on Camp Mack.
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![](mailto:?subject=Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation and Shark Allies Support Signing of Shark Fin Trade Legislation in Florida&body=Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed into law the bill that bans the importation of shark fins into Florida and closes loopholes that enabled the illegal shark fin trade.
The Kristin Jacobs Ocean Conservation Act, named after the late Rep. Kristin Jacobs, was introduced in late 2019 and approved by the House and Senate in March. Rep. Jacobs co-spearheaded the legislation with support from the <a href="https://www.guyharvey.com/ocean-foundation">Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation</a> (GHOF), <a href="https://www.sharkallies.com/">Shark Allies</a> and Senate bill sponsor Sen. Travis Huston (R-Palm Coast).
<a href="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Mako3-e1493736606510.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4695" src="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Mako3-e1493736606510.png" alt="Mako Your ultimate dive in isla mujeres" width="538" height="400" /></a>
“Prohibiting the importation of shark fins into Florida is a tremendous first step in protecting global shark populations. Until now, Florida’s airports and seaports were the main thoroughfare for illegal fins from the Caribbean and Central America,” said Guy Harvey, chairman of the GHOF. “We appreciate the efforts of Rep. Jacobs and wish she were here with us to see the results of her diligent work. We also thank the governor for his support and will continue to push this legislation nationally.”
This is a monumental victory for shark conservation advocates in North America since Florida is currently the number one hub for the sale, import and transport of ill-gotten shark fins. Researchers from Nova Southeastern University’s (NSU) Guy Harvey Research Institute (GHRI) determined that fins from upward of <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16972875">73 million</a> sharks end up in the global market annually. The high demand for shark fins in Asia fuels the global shark fin trade, with a large portion of the fins harvested illegally.
”I am grateful that the Kristin Jacobs Ocean Conservation Act is now a part of Florida law and moves our state in the right direction of putting an end to the ecologically harmful and morally repugnant practice of illegal shark finning,” said Senator Hutson.
The law finally puts an end to a long list of regulations and loopholes that prevented the proper enforcement of the Florida shark finning ban, which was implemented in 2012. These loopholes allowed Florida ports to become a major hub for the transport of illegal shark fins to China and other Asian countries where the price for shark fins exceeds normal market prices.
“State fin bans have paved the way to make a campaign for a national fin ban a possibility,” says Stefanie Brendl, executive director of Shark Allies. “And the state of Florida has been a key component of a movement towards ending the fin trade in the U.S. While a nationwide ban is the ultimate goal, it is uncertain when that will become a reality, and whether that effort will have to come with exemptions and concessions, as most federal acts do. Having state AND federal legislation in place assures that sharks receive protection sooner, rather than later. There simply is no reason why Florida ports needed to keep allowing fin shipments in hopes that national legislation would eventually fix the problem. Local action matters. It is the pathway to national action.”
About the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation: The Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation (GHOF) conducts scientific research and hosts educational programs aimed at conserving the marine environment. The GHOF also funds affiliated researchers working to better understand our ocean ecosystem and educators helping to foster the next era of marine conservationists. The GHOF will help ensure that future generations can enjoy and benefit from a properly balanced ocean ecosystem. <a href="http://www.GHOF.org">www.GHOF.org</a>
About NSU’s Guy Harvey Research Institute: Established in 1999, NSU’s Guy Harvey Research Institute (GHRI) is a collaboration between the renowned marine artist, scientist and explorer, Dr. Guy Harvey, and Nova Southeastern University’s Halmos College of Arts and Sciences. The mission of NSU’s GHRI is to provide the scientific information necessary to understand, conserve, and effectively manage the world’s marine fishes and their ecosystems. It is one of only a handful of private organizations dedicated exclusively to the science-based conservation of marine fish populations and biodiversity. The research, education and outreach activities of NSU’s GHRI are supported by the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation, Intradeco, extramural research grants, philanthropic donations by private businesses and individuals and NSU.
About Shark Allies: Shark Allies is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and conservation of sharks and rays by focusing on taking action, raising awareness, and guiding initiatives that reduce the destructive overfishing of sharks. The organization has deep roots in shark fin trade legislation, creating the first of its kind in Hawaii in 2010, and many to follow. <a href="http://www.sharkallies.com">www.sharkallies.com</a>
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![](mailto:?subject=36 Hours in St. Augustine&body=On northern Florida’s Atlantic coast, the past is present in this centuries-old city, where history, beachcombing and Southern treats like butter pecan milkshakes are celebrated in equal measure.
<a href="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/001.jpg">
</a>If you think the Sunshine State is all about theme parks and frying on the beaches, you probably haven’t been to St. Augustine. In the oldest, continuously occupied European settlement in North America, visitors get the glorious beaches along with a healthy dose of unexpected delights:
To read more on 36 Hours in St. Augustine Visit <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/07/travel/what-to-do-in-st-augustine-florida.html">NY Times</a> https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/36-hours-in-st-augustine/){kind=link}
![](mailto:?subject=THE KEYS TO PARADISE&body=Where U.S. Route 1 becomes the Overseas Highway, visitors are transported to paradise through a series of islands without ever leaving the states. While Key West reigns as the most well-known tourist destination south of Miami, there are a number of Keys well worth a detour along your drive to the southernmost point.
<a href="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Photo2.jpeg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5400" src="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Photo2.jpeg" alt="" width="5219" height="3480" /></a>Photo by Katie McCafferty
Key Largo
Key Largo marks your first location for water adventure at John Pennekamp State Park where visitors can scuba, snorkel, sail, or view the beauty of the living coral reef from the park’s glass bottom boats. As you continue south along U.S. 1 to Key West, you will pass through a collection of islets that make up the premier fishing destination of Islamorada. The beautiful uninhabited islands that surround Islamorada provide the perfect backdrop for backcountry flats fishing on the Gulf side or ocean reef fishing in the Atlantic. For a thrilling adventure, try your hand at tarpon feeding from the dock at Robbie’s Restaurant and Marina before heading to Marathon.
<a href="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Photo3.jpeg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5401" src="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Photo3.jpeg" alt="" width="2688" height="1738" /></a>Photo by Katie McCafferty
Marathon
Marathon offers unique ocean to table dining, wildlife and snorkeling ecoadventures, and the largest turtle hospital in the country. Dr. Guy Harvey is an advocate for marine conservation who has dedicated his life to the research and preservation of ocean life. A visit to the Marathon Turtle Hospital provides visitors the opportunity to share in Guy’s passion for turtle conservation and learn about the many species of turtles that you can encounter in Florida’s waters. The hospital offers a behind the scenes guided tour of its rehabilitation facility and concludes with a special opportunity to feed the turtles in its care.
<a href="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Photo4.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5402" src="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Photo4.jpg" alt="" width="3967" height="3171" /></a>Photo by Katie McCafferty
Pigeon Key
While in Marathon, visitors have the opportunity to ferry to the national historic landmark of Pigeon Key. Pigeon Key is a hidden gem that will transport you back to a time when Key West was only accessible by boat and railway. Pigeon Key is the epicenter of Henry Flagler’s vision to create an overseas railway from Miami to Key West. This architectural feat expanded commerce between Cuba, Latin America, and Panama and ultimately overhauled the economy and infrastructure of the Keys. Once on the island visitors can take an educational tour, snorkel, or relax on what will feel like your own private island. This cultural excursion departs from the Faro Blanco Marin, where you can grab lunch at its waterfront restaurant, the Lighthouse Grill, before setting sail for Pigeon Key. The Lighthouse Grill serves delectable Key West cuisine paired with enchanting gulf side views. Visitors can snack on conch fritters and feast on delicious fresh fish while sitting poolside as yachts dock at the Marina.
<a href="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Photo5.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5403" src="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Photo5.jpg" alt="" width="3967" height="3171" /></a>Photo by Katie McCafferty
Big Pine Key
After a day on the water at Pigeon Key, head south by crossing over the famed Seven Mile Bridge to neighboring Big Pine Key and Bahia Honda State Park. Big Pine Key is home to the National Key Deer Wildlife Refuge where lucky visitors can spot protected and endangered Key deer only found in the lower Florida Keys. At Blue Hole nature trail on Big Pine Key visitors can spot a variety of wildlife including the resident American alligators from the observation deck. One of the best ways to locate a Key deer is by driving the neighboring streets around Big Hole and keeping your eyes peeled on the surrounding bushes and vegetation. The National Key Deer Refuge asks visitors not to feed the wild deer and to use extreme caution when driving through Big Pine Key. The deer have become so familiar with human contact that they will walk right up to you or your vehicle. Please enjoy visiting their habitat and follow the rules of the Wildlife Refuge to help the species flourish in its protected environment.
<a href="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Photo6.jpeg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5404" src="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Photo6.jpeg" alt="" width="5821" height="3880" /></a>Photo by Katie McCafferty
Bahia Honda State Park
Consistently rated one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Bahia Honda Key is the refreshing escape to paradise you’ve been waiting for. The spectacular panoramic views of the island display the shimmering clear waters that showcase the natural beauty of the Florida Keys. Bahia Honda is a true adventurer’s playground with kayaks, snorkeling gear rentals, and boat trip excursions to the reefs all readily available through the park’s welcome center. If you are looking to immerse yourself in the nature of the island, the park offers overnight cabins situated directly on the Gulf.
From watching as the sun sets over the islands to floating over the turquoise waves, the Florida Keys has a way of reminding you to slow down and relish its natural beauty. In the Keys where it’s always “5 o’clock somewhere” and flip flops and swimsuits are essential, you can be sure that the Florida Key’s state of mind will always follow you wherever you go. https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/the-keys-to-paradise/){kind=link}
![](mailto:?subject=Guy Harvey Outpost Announces Bonfire Sculptor for the BBC&body=The second leg of the Bonfire Bass Challenge tournament series hosted by Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina and RV Resort returns to the water on May 15th. The tournament’s signature “Blazing Bass Bonfire” event will feature the work of Ocklawaha, Florida artist Bo Woods. His Broken Face Fabrications is well known for its original hand drawn, whimsical metal art and sculpture designs.
<a href="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/IMG_1060-002.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5629" src="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/IMG_1060-002.jpg" alt="" width="1242" height="1653" /></a>Artist Bo Woods of Broken Face Fabrications
With several Guy Harvey Outpost Bonfire festivals to his credit, Kevin DeNell, Executive Vice President of Guy Harvey Outpost, commissioned Woods to develop a monumental scaled metal sculpture to use for an outdoor bonfire in a manner not unlike those of the well-known “Burning Man” festival. The original Guy Harvey Outpost Bonfire festival, the “Blazing Marlin” was held in Bimini, Bahamas to showcase the company’s return to Bimini at Bimini Sands Resort, using trash collected off the island’s beaches to fuel the bonfire.
“Gonna be memorable!” exclaims Wood from behind his welding mask as he returns to making final adjustments to the Blazing Bass sculpture. He is shaping a commercial sized liquid propane gas tank into this years’ Blazing Bass bonfire sculpture, cutting the tank with an outline of his unique vision of lunker bass and the Camp Mack riverfront setting, all to be illuminated from the massive fire within.
<a href="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/IMG_1068.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5628" src="https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/IMG_1068.jpg" alt="" width="621" height="881" /></a>Artist Bo Woods at work
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The “Blazing Bass” bonfire lighting is scheduled for Friday night, May 14th, the opening night of the tournament. The sculpture will remain on site at Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina and RV Resort after the festival for use by future guests and campground customers. For information on attending the bonfire or fishing the tournament, visit <a href="http://www.BonfireSeries.com">www.BonfireSeries.com.</a> https://guyharveyoutpostblog.com/guy-harvey-outpost-announces-bonfire-sculptor-for-the-bbc/){kind=link}
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