5 of The Best Rivers for Kayaking in Central Florida
The Sunshine State has so many fantastic waterways to explore, but when it comes to kayaking in Central Florida, there are five rivers that stand above—or should I say flow above?—the rest!
With lush, unspoiled scenery and gentle currents that are teeming with wildlife, these Central Florida rivers provide a rich environment for the perfect paddling trip. So grab your gear, pack a snack, and get ready to go with the flow!
Withlacoochee River
The Withlacoochee River is a gateway to the wilderness.
Breathtakingly beautiful, Withlacoochee is Florida’s fourth-largest river and has actually been designated a Florida Outstanding Waterway—not necessarily because it’s outstanding for kayaking (which it absolutely is), but because it has natural attributes deemed worthy of special protection.1 Part of what makes the water of Withlacoochee unique is that it flows north instead of south!2
Within an hour of Orlando and Tampa, Withlacoochee is a wonderfully accessible—but not overly crowded—option for kayaking in Central Florida. The designated paddling trail is 76 miles long, starting in Lacoochee and ending in Dunnellon with several access points in between. Much of the river flows through conservation areas, including Withlacoochee State Forest, meaning you’ll be treated to unspoiled scenery and peace and quiet.
Lush, green, and overgrown, you’ll feel a world away as you float along this dark-water river. It’s not unusual to journey several miles without spotting another kayaker. In fact, you’ll probably see more alligators than people!
If you’re seeking a hidden gem, look no further than Withlacoochee.
Silver River
One of the best rivers for kayaking in Central Florida is most certainly the Silver River.
From its clear, turquoise waters to the spectacular wildlife, Silver River is an eight-mile run of pure, natural bliss. If you plan to kayak the entire stretch, there is a launch point at Ray Wayside Park (east of Ocala), or you can launch from the lovely Silver Springs State Park, which halves the distance of your kayak adventure.3 There’s no fear of missing out, though! No matter the length of your trip, you’ll be treated to some of Florida’s best scenery. That’s just part of paddling down the Silver River!
The glittering, clear water allows for views of turtles, fish, and waving fronds of freshwater grass beneath the surface. Alligators bask along the banks while various hardwood trees, shrubs, and palms ensconce the river in a wild, jungle-like atmosphere. The most notable wildlife is the monkeys, which also contribute to the jungle vibes.
No, I’m not being facetious—there’s actually a good chance you’ll see some Rhesus monkeys perched on the branches above you! They were part of a Silver River tourist attraction in the 1930s but ended up propagating and populating more of the river than anticipated. Today, their presence makes this one of the most unique rivers for kayaking!
Crystal River
If cool wildlife is your main criteria for good kayaking in Central Florida, then you’ll love Crystal River!
Fed by over thirty natural springs, Crystal River winds its way from Central Florida to the Gulf of Mexico in the short but breathtaking span of seven miles. With vivid, turquoise waters, this is considered one of the prettiest rivers for kayaking along the Nature Coast. However, more than its tranquil waters, the Crystal River is best known for being the manatee capital of the world.
The warm water of the springs, including the famous Three Sisters Springs, feeds into the river to create an inviting environment for manatees. The population here is so dense that the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge was founded, and it is the only refuge created specifically for the protection of a single species.4
As you float along the peaceful currents of Crystal River, you may find yourself side by side with a gentle, grey giant. The thrill of having a manatee surface next to your kayak is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! With small but expressive eyes, it seems as if the manatees are just as curious about us as we are about them. It probably goes without saying, but make sure to mind your “manatee manners” and look, but don’t touch. (I know, it’s super tempting to pet these cuties!)
A popular destination, Crystal River is generally busier than other locations for kayaking in Central Florida. Launch sites can be found in Hunter Springs Park, Kings Bay Park, and Crystal River Preserve State Park. Note that for the manatees’ safety, all water traffic is prohibited in protected areas from mid-November to late March, when manatees flock to the area in droves for their own winter vacations.5
Peace River
Paddle above underwater traces of Floridian prehistory at Peace River!
Known for great fossil finding, Peace River is also an excellent choice for Central Florida kayaking. While it might not be quite as picturesque as other rivers, Peace River lives up to its name and offers ideal conditions for beginner kayakers or anyone who just wants to chill.
(Photo: Unsplash)
Rolling gently along for 106 miles, there is a 67-mile-long designated paddle trail starting just north of Fort Meade and flowing into Arcadia, with several launch points in between.6 The river is the color of freshly brewed English Breakfast tea and meanders through cypress swamps and shady hardwood hammocks. The wilderness quickly takes over once you start a trip down Peace River; you’ll find yourself far away from the sounds of bustling theme parks or city traffic. Birds circle lazily overhead while alligators bask on the riverbank. Some might call it dull, but those in the know call it paradise.
Remember to stow a short-handled shovel or small garden trowel in your kayak so you can fossil find while taking a quick break on the river bank!
Weeki Wachee River
Weeki Wachee is the best place for mermaid spotting, but did you know it’s also great for Florida kayaking?
While Weeki Wachee Springs (the start of this river) is renowned for its amazing mermaid show, the Weeki Wachee River might be the real star, carrying kayakers through some of the most gorgeous scenery in the Sunshine State. Winding on for a mere 5.5 miles, Weeki Wachee is still one of Florida’s most popular rivers for kayaking.
With sparkling sapphire water and a steady current that saves paddlers from too much of a workout, Weeki Wachee is a must for water-loving adventurers. This floodplain river is home to some amazing wildlife, meaning intrepid kayakers are likely to see herons, turtles, otters, and even the occasional manatee. The launch site for this favorite bit of Florida kayaking is in Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, and there’s also a launch in Rogers Park.7 (Most folks choose to paddle from the springs and use Rogers Park as a take-out point.)
Because Weeki Wachee River is so awesome, it’s also rather busy. If you’re looking for solitude and a time of reflection, you’d be better off on Peace River or the Withlacoochee. Nevertheless, you can avoid most of the Weeki Wachee buzz by strategically planning your trip for early midweek days. The beauty of this quaint river is definitely bucket list-worthy!
Kayaking self-care check! Remember to wear sunscreen, a lifejacket, your favorite hat, and to drink plenty of water! If you don’t want to haul your own kayak around, there are outfitters near most launch points along these rivers that rent kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards.
Now, these are just five of Central Florida’s best rivers for kayaking, but there are so many more to explore! Is your favorite kayaking route on the list, or did we float right past it? Let us know in the comments below! (And maybe we’ll do a write-up on it!)
See you on the next adventure!
Cover Image
Photo: Florida Fish and Wildlife via Flickr
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