The 1800s Chesser homestead gives a pretty good look at the hard life of early settlers of this region. They found nearly all they needed in this swampy, marshy place. They kept the clear sand yard to deter snakes around the house. Side note, the park suspends evening hikes and boat tours in the summer because the biting yellow flies get so bad.  Makes me want to move in!

A nature drive, boardwalk and overlook tower come up pretty light on wild life. There are, or course, alligators, turtles, a snake, plus a fair sampling of wading birds.  Some of the many species of woodpeckers make appearances.  We will be heading out in the kayaks in the next day or so to check out who dwells out in the backcountry.