From our last location on the gulf coast we continue soaking up the Old Florida character by relocating to near Apalachicola Florida. This small old fishing village is found on the “Forgotten Coast.” From their website: Franklin County Florida, also known as the Forgotten Coast, is nestled in the panhandle of the Sunshine State. This beautiful region has been dubbed the Forgotten Coast because it’s the last remaining stretch of unspoiled, pristine Gulf Coast beaches that haven’t been overrun by high rises and strip malls. The Forgotten Coast includes the charming communities of Apalachicola, Alligator Point, Carrabelle, St. George Island & Eastpoint. LINK
Relocation & RV Resort
Our drive was just less than 200 miles and included some great coastal views, several small towns, and all on secondary roads.
Our new park (Coastline RV Resort) LINK is located in Eastpoint Florida, directly on the Apalachicola Bay. It is a very nice park with good site spacing, long pull throughs, and a million dollar view. When we were not out exploring, it was great to sit outside and gaze onto the Bay. According to a neighbor, they are fully booked for next winter.
Sunset from our RV park 
Our site on the corner
Apalachicola
At a whopping 13 feet elevation and with 2,300 people, this coastal town has a rich history with an economy based on fishing and a tourism industry. The area produces oysters for 90% of Florida. Here is a brief sketch of its history:
- The name comes from a Seminole term meaning “people on the other side of the river”
- Between the years 1513 and 1763, the area was under Spanish rule
- Between the years 1763 and 1783 the area that is now Apalachicola fell under the jurisdiction of British West Florida
- In 1783, British West Florida was transferred back to Spain
- In 1827, the town was incorporated as “West Point”
- After acquisition by the US, the European Americans began to settle
- Apalachicola received its current name in 1831
- In 1849, Apalachicola physician Dr. John Gorrie discovered the cold-air process of refrigeration and patented an ice machine in 1850. This process improved the health of many fever patients
We just strolled through this town a few times, doing our usual. Checking out the small craft shops, a coffee shop, a brewery, and a restaurant. We may have helped the economy in some small way, but it was already quite busy. Not overcrowded by any means, but looked to be a good business.
They have these oyster shells as “mulch” every few feet on the sidewalks 
St. George Island
Almost directly across from our RV park in Eastpoint is the long bridge out to St George Island. It is a barrier island that is 28 miles long and is best known for their beaches. Soft white sand and very wide in places, it is the perfect place for some beach time.
Of course, with the perfect beaches come the miles of condos and more are being built each day. The traffic was not too bad at all when we drove around. We explored in the car, walked a beach, stopped for a latte, and then stopped at the lighthouse.
The light dates back to 1833 and there are 92 stairs up to the top with the last section a 24×21 scuttle hole up to the lantern. There is a great view up 72 feet in the top glassed in section!
From the top! 
Plein air painting in process
Wrap Up
Next up will be a part two of Apalachicola and then a quick trip through Alabama due to some severe storms. Then on to Sevierville and finally back home! Take care and God Bless.
Great posting. Like the details. Never been a Florida guy but need to plan a trip to follow your footsteps.
We have been in that area twice, so are very familiar with all the sights. We also stayed at Coastline, and they have always been booked for the following season. We used our bikes on St. George Island. For me it wouldn’t be an area to stay for the entire winter. But, it is an enjoyable stop over.