Torreya State Park is named for the Torreya Tree. This tree is one of the oldest tree species on earth. It was discovered here in 1835.

Torreya Taxifolia

The Gregory House used to be on the other side of the river. When it declined, the plantation house was donated to the CCC who dismantled it, moved it across the river, and re-constructed it on this side as an attraction for this park.

The Gregory House

The house sits on a bluff over the Apalachicola River. There are a few benches in the back yard so you can sit and enjoy the view. We did not tour the house as we have seen it before.

The Apalachicola River

Off to the side behind the house is a trail head for a trail that winds down along the bluff to the river. A big sign explains the history of this area. The trail takes you by where Confederate troops had built one of six gun batteries to guard the Apalachicola River from Union attack during the American Civil War. It was abandoned when the war ended in 1865.

Hammock Landing Battery

All that remains are trenches where the guns had been placed. Signs along the trail explain what was what.

Confederate Gun Emplacement #1

Apalachicola River

The weather started out cool but quickly warmed up to where it was pushing 80 degrees. After our little hike we went home to cool off. There are severe weather warnings out for this area. It’s going to be a bumpy night.

Here is a link to last year’s visit here.