Tomoka Loop

This paddle usually starts at Tomoka State Park. But, that Park, along with all Florida State Parks, is closed due to Covid-19.  I put in at Sanchez Park, an Ormond Beach facility.

 Not a lot of parking at Sanchez.  About 4 spaces for trailers, the same for cars.  People were parked on the street and the dirt road between the ramp and the rest of the park.  That is where I parked. Next to a deep mud puddle from Saturday's rain.  On Strickland Creek at 9:38

 Paddling north

 Entering the Tomoka River.   Only I thought it was the Halifax River.  I do not do this paddle often.  And only one other time, from Sanchez Park.  Tomoka River State Park is on a peninsula, between the Halifax and Tomoka Rivers.  I had it in my head that Strickland Creek exits near the top of the peninsula.

 I thought the Tomika River, which I was on would be to the west.

Man made canals, some dating to colonial times, add to the confusion

 I entered a natural dead end. Landed and entered shade so I could see a map on my phone

 Still thinking I was on the Halifax.  Paddled back and forth a few times

State Park docks, I finally figured out where I was.  On the Tomoka River.  Strickland Creek enters it well south of where the Tomoka and Halifax converge

 State Park dock at the boat ramp

 Now, time to find Thompson Creek.  Which, I was thinking, started with R, Richardson, or Robertson.

 Very windy on the wide Tomoka River

 Thompson Creek.  After a few false starts.  The key, look for something that is more creeky-windy, than canaly-straight

 More people on Thompson than I have ever seen. 6-8 boats

Landed at 4:47.  Much later than I expected.  I really need to look at maps when I go to places I have not been to for a while.

The Outback, parked next to a mud puddle, was covered in mud. Which is to be expected, on the side next to the puddle.  Mud on the other side, that's just assholes.