"Evolution of the Weapon"!

Set in Auburndale, Florida, GoNativeNow offers a unique outdoor adventure that transports you across millennia of human innovation: "Evolution of the Weapon." This immersive experience takes visitors through the prehistoric arc from Paleo spear hunting to the refined archery of the Mississippian Mound Builders. It’s a hands-on dive into the ingenuity that shaped survival and culture long before modern technology. Located along US-92, Auburndale features flatwoods and subtropical habitats typical of central Florida, with sandy soils supporting slash pine, saw palmettos, and occasional hardwood hammocks.

The area’s terrain and climate provide a relevant backdrop for understanding how indigenous peoples adapted their tools to local conditions. On the trip, participants learn about four distinct weapon eras: the Paleo stabbing spear, the Archaic throwing spear, the Woodland atlatl spear thrower, and the Mississippian bow and arrow. Additional demonstrations include the blowgun and rabbit stick, showcasing methods that ranged from stealth hunting to group warfare.

Each tool is presented with historical context, explaining how shifting social dynamics and environmental factors drove technological shifts. The highlight is the opportunity to try these ancient weapons yourself under expert guidance, blending tactile learning with outdoor engagement. What sets GoNativeNow apart is its fusion of archaeology, anthropology, and natural history into an active, experiential format rarely offered in Florida’s outdoor recreation scene.

Beyond typical hiking or paddling trips, this adventure illuminates a lesser-known facet of human history tied directly to the land. For visitors based in nearby Lakeland or Tampa, this is a rewarding day trip that combines education, physical activity, and cultural heritage in one memorable package. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or traveling families seeking something different, "Evolution of the Weapon" is a specialized journey bridging past and present.