Those that have lived in DeLand for a while know that Highland Park Fish Camp has been a long time establishment in the area. The camp has been owned by the Rawlins family for over 54 years. Many have fond memories of taking their children to the catch-and-release bass pond on the property to catch their first largemouth bass. Others may remember going on a guided trip in Lake Woodruff, catching their limit of bass or crappie. Guests usually leave Highland Park with positive memories of that monster bass or simply the tranquility the property brings, along with the down home hospitality of the Rawlins family.
Recently Highland Park received great publicity throughout the state of Florida, as it was featured on the hit television series, “how to Do florida.” The episode that aired in the month of August spotlighted fish camps as a nostalgic place in Florida’s past. Chad Crawford, the show’s host and creator said in an interview for the Daytona Beach News-Journal, “The special highlights Florida fish camps and encourages people to visit them. People came to Florida to fish. They were the original theme parks. It was the concept of camp and fish.”
Several fish camps throughout the state of Florida have been sold off to developers. A limited amount have survived, thanks to a sustainable business model, and a recent increase in demand due to those who want to experience authentic Florida.
“The ones who weren’t willing to adapt with boat rentals and offer a wide range of accommodations and things to do weren’t able to survive,” Crawford said in the interview. “Highland Park has met those challenges.”
The episode documents Crawford’s experience with his daughter Kasie, Bryn Rawlins, one of the camp’s fishing guides and second generation operator, guided the duo to catch largemouth bass and bluegill. The show also shows a break in the fishing action as Crawford and his daughter make a stop by boat at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill at Deleon Springs State Park.
“how to Do florida” is currently in its seventh season and can be seen in the Orlando market on WFTV 9 (ABC) on Sunday afternoons at 2:30. The show can also be seen on Fox Sports Sun. For more information and complete schedule, visit www.howtodoflorida.com. For more information on Highland Park Fish Camp, visit http://www.hpfishcamp.com/.
