This site is part of a vast ecosystem that begins hundreds of miles away in the Chattahoochee National Forest in Georgia. The 82,554- acre Apalachicola River contains the largest expanse of floodplain forest in Florida. This region is considered one of the most important bird habitats in the southeastern United States: more than 280 species have been identified in the Apalachicola River area.

The area lies on the eastern fringe of the Mississippi Flyway and hosts large numbers of birds from both the Midwest and the Atlantic seaboard during migratory periods. Travelers have an outstanding view of the Apalachicola from the tower that also overlooks a beautiful Cabbage Palm hammock and floodplain forest. The site also includes interpretive panels, picnic tables, a short nature walk, and dock.