Finding the Creature from the Black Lagoon

With piercing eyes and scaly skin, the mysterious “Creature from the Black Lagoon” has been a piece of pop culture since he first frightened audiences more than 60 years ago.

But while his story may be fictional—a made-for-the-movies tale that capitalized on early “monster movie” trends—the unique aquatic environments that the Creature dwelled in are very real. In fact, you can even visit some of them today.

Read on as we explore the explore the enchanting Florida destinations that helped frame the Creature’s creepy story—and see how modern travelers can enjoy them, too!

Wakulla Springs

Much of “Creature from the Black Lagoon” was, naturally, shot in Hollywood. But you don’t need to buy a ticket to Tinseltown to get a sense of the Creature’s storied surroundings. For example, when it came to getting shots of the Creature underwater, in action, filmmakers needed to find the perfect balance of water that was both clear to shoot in, but surrounded by the sort of lush, leafy landscape you’d stumble upon in a lagoon-like his.

The result? Wakulla Springs, Florida. Located near the state capital of Tallahassee, on the outskirts of the expansive Apalachicola National Forest, Wakulla Springs provided the perfect pairing of gorgeous water and mystery in the way of tall green trees and submerged trunks all around. You can play your own role as the Creature by visiting today for a good swim—though if you’re looking for faster-paced thrills, you can also take the quick trip down to Apalachee Bay, from where you can hop around the islands or simply spend some time cruising along the coast!

Palatka

Palatka, Florida is another Sunshine State spot that earned its 15 minutes of fame thanks to the Creature. In the film’s sequel, some of his scenes were shot at the small city of Palatka, which overlooks Rice Creek and the St. Johns River. While the twisting, woodsy shores of Rice Creek likely provided the perfect ambiance for the Creature’s murky, mysterious dwellings, the nearby expanse of the St. Johns River (which runs about 300 miles throughout Florida’s center) is a lot brighter. A great place to cruise, or pull up for lunch by the water, the St. Johns River is a popular destination for boaters of all types. At its wider points (like those that can be found around Palatka), the river spans three miles wide, making it a top spot to go wakeboarding and enjoy some water sports fun. 

Silver Springs and the Ocala National Forest

The pristine waters of Silver Springs in Central Florida also served as a filming site for the Creature’s home. Once again, the clear water played a key role in shaping his surroundings—as the “Gateway to the Ocala National Forest,” the springs are sufficiently surrounded by lush tropical fauna which created a shadowy, enticing ambiance.

Silver Springs is another worthy destination to visit today—even if you aren’t a monster movie buff, the aquatic expanse is known for underwater statues, one-of-a-kind wildlife finds and opportunities to go diving in the strikingly clear blue water.

Keep traveling through the Ocala National Forest for more on-the-water fun. While Florida may be best known for its never-ending shoreline, smaller bodies of water like Wildcat Lake are just as apt at providing an afternoon of fun, whether you want to waterski or spend the day fishing. 

So the Creature might be make-believe… but the allure of these destinations is anything but. Explore them this summer for a thrilling adventure that’s sure to please the whole crew!