Yakona, meaning 'rising water' in the Tonkawan language, is a visual journey through the crystal clear waters of the San Marcos river and its headwaters at Spring Lake. The river has seen Mastodons die on its banks, the Native tribes of North America rise and fall, Spanish explorers seeking the fountain of youth and modern man building dams, theme parks, roads and bridges. Now a popular recreational destination, the San Marcos River is a natural water park frequented by tubers and kayakers. However, concealed just beneath the surface, the river and Spring Lake retain much of their primordial prehistoric characteristics. The spring-fed waters harbor eight endangered species and support a diverse ecosystem of plants and animals that have remained relatively unchanged for millions of years.