The dark, slow waters of the St. Johns River have sustained life in Florida since the earliest recorded history. For thousands of years, Native Americans made their homes along its banks. The river also served as the first major highway into the heart of Florida, bringing northerners south via steamboat and opening up Central Florida to development long before the advent of the railway and highway systems. Today, the river remains an important economic engine and unique environmental jewel. But as Florida's population grows, the river faces growing threats.
In December, Steve Barnes embarked on a goodwill tour of the St. Johns River aboard his 26-foot sailboat River Rat. From the open waters of Lake Monroe in Sanford, up through the twisting river to the north, across Lake George and on to Jacksonville, Steve visited with those who love the river and spread the word about the need to protect this vital river. To follow his trip, please visit his blog at www.SJRmag.com.
For additional information about the St. Johns River, please click here.
This page is under construction. Please check back soon for stories about this beautiful yet imperiled river. Updates will include a guide to touring the river by boat with links to marinas, tips on fishing, anchoring and places of interest.
The dark, slow waters of the St. Johns River have sustained life in Florida since the earliest recorded history. For thousands of years, Native Americans made their homes along its banks. The river also served as the first major highway into the heart of Florida, bringing northerners south via steamboat and opening up Central Florida to development long before the advent of the railway and highway systems. Today, the river remains an important economic engine and unique environmental jewel. But as Florida's population grows, the river faces growing threats. 
In December, Steve Barnes embarked on a goodwill tour of the St. Johns River aboard his 26-foot sailboat River Rat. From the open waters of Lake Monroe in Sanford, up through the twisting river to the north, across Lake George and on to Jacksonville, Steve visited with those who love the river and spread the word about the need to protect this vital river. To follow his trip, please visit his blog at