Pete Joyce was paddling in a swampy . It is approximately a 6-mile long trail with a relatively swift current perfect for inexperienced kayakers or those who wish to have a lazy float down the river. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Central Florida while exploring the park's various creeks and lakes via your kayak or canoe. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. from. adventure for everyone involved. The kayaking experience is ideal for kayakers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. Fortunately, there are plenty of reputable sources online that can help direct you to some of the best places to kayak without fear of gators. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. Next up on you list might be Sarasota Bay near Bradenton Beach in Sarasota County which is one great spot for beginners wanting calmer waters with less chance of windy weather or current changes like what youll find on larger bodies like Lake Okeechobee or the Gulf Coast areas like Tampa Bay or Naples Bay area along the Paradise Coast near Marco Island in Collier County. Yes, there are places in Florida without alligators such as large cities or areas with high human population density. Unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, majestic rivers and views of celestial skies not seen elsewhere in the state of Texas! Kayakers can start at the fort king waterway that connects to the Silver Spring River. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. The park is generally considered safe for travelers who take necessary precautions for their own well-being such as being mindful about drinking only bottled water when camping out or refraining from wandering deep into trails without a guide present because borders with Mexico share common land entrances near the national park.. It's best known for Fort Jefferson, a massive, yet unfinished coastal fortress. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. And if luck favors - anglers can also find largemouth basses swimming across this clean river as well making fishing quite enjoyable too at times during peak seasons alright? You can read more about me on my about page. For kayakers, those tubing rivers the Ichetucknee and the Rainbow are at their best in winter because the wildlife avoids the crowds. However, any flurry in the water attracts alligators. One such source is the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which offers detailed information on available freshwater paddling trails in the state. You could also camp along the river if you want to stay near the water as there are river camps. 1700 Bowman's Beach Road, Sanibel, FL 33957. TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. The main attraction of the Rainbow River is the extremely clear water, which will enable you to see even fish swimming below your kayak. Cayo Costa Camping Tips for 2021 - Just Go! So if youre looking for a safe place to kayak in Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is a great option. This will help you avoid potential danger or alligators lurking in the water. It is also great for all levels of kayakers. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. Ichetucknee Springs, located in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a popular destination in the summer for its water tubing. Titusville and Cocoa Beach are the two best places to see bioluminescence, not just in Florida but in the world. The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. South Florida also has some excellent kayaking trails that contain completely different flora, fauna, and wildlife. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. Some of the best places to kayak in Florida without alligators are the Santa Fe River, Weeki Wachee Spring, Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, Silver River, Rainbow River, Manatee River, Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail, etc. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. From clear streams to tannic waters, nighttime natural underwater light shows to coastal waters. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. In addition head South towards Everglades National Park - absolutely one fo the best spots for kayaking in all of Florida--for an incredible saltwater adventure across shallow channels and coastal flats consisting mostly mudflats but also patches of oyster bars interspersed between lagoons teeming with wildlife such as wading birds gliding across glass like reflections offered by oddly colored greenish waters below flooded sawgrass meadows illuminated by dazzling sunlight above! Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, Florida State Park List JellyPressStore on Etsy, Take me to the River Sticker JellyPressStore on Etsy, 50 Inspiring Quotes about Travel and Family, Visiting Iceland with a Toddler: A Complete Guide. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. Alligators in North and South Carolina are mostly found along the coast. Susan is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. 4. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Explore the Best 10 Florida Springs Near Orlando! Kayaking in the winter months in Florida is the best time to go, and also increases the likelihood that alligators will leave you alone. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Basically, don't go paddling close to alligators to try and get a closer look. But if you're looking for a kayaking adventure without alligators, you may be wondering where to go. Kayakers cannot resist disturbing the gators when kayaking in Florida and they bother them until one attacks. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. You can be in an area that's 25 feet deep then take 2 steps and you'll be in an area that's only 10 feet. Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? If youre an avid kayaker, theres no question that Florida is the place to visit. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. If you plan on kayaking, the best time to visit Ichetuknee Spring is during winter, as the waters are quieter without all of the tubers. Don't poke it with your paddle. More About James R Rockey at About Page Here: AuthorsBased on his experiences with the different types of kayaks, he is sharing his opinion about kayaking tricks and required gears so that a beginner can get started right away.Find his team on Twitter here. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. Located in Dunnellon, this river is 5.7 miles long. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. The best way to deal with alligators is to avoid them at all costs. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. A: When kayaking, its important to pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. The Silver River is known for its crystal clear waters, abundant wildlife, and natural beauty, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Fe_River_(Florida), https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/suwannee-river-wilderness-state-trail, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silver_River_(Florida). Kayaking in Florida. This being said, Florida and Louisiana are the only states where you'll find alligators throughout the entire state. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. Continue with Recommended Cookies. 1. Pingback: Kayaking with Kids: A Complete Guide - Just Go! Regardless which slice of Floridian paradise you choose, remember there are still unforeseen threats such as snakes hidden among rock formations along your path that should remain top priority during any amount time spent outdoors. WHERE TO LAUNCH: Billy's Stone Crab: 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL 33715 | WHO: 727-265-2268. Great Kayaking Spots in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA, Top 10 Places to Kayak in Florida (2020 Update), Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators Travel Youman, Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? ]. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. >> we were kayaking and a gator almost flipped us over. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. If you get too close to the alligator, it may give warning signs that should make you move away. It can be dangerous if you don't take safety precautions such as paying attention to eroded terrain while hiking and avoiding areas with loose rocks when climbing cliff walls and hillsides as well wearing adequate clothes for protection from desert temperatures or cactus damage. And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. Pingback: Spend A Day at Smyrna Dunes Park: The New Smyrna Dog Friendly Beach - Just Go! Besides, its really easy to reach the trail. 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel, FL 33957. Don't throw Cheetos at it. If you click on our links, Just Go Family may receive a commission. Salt water crocs live in the north of the country where there are fewer people to interact with. The warm waters remain quite calm year round which makes it great for novice paddlers looking for an easygoing ride. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. Whether you choose to take a manatee kayak tour in Florida, or you choose to kayak in Florida with the manatees on your own, there are some really beautiful locations to choose from. To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. While the idea. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. - Just Go! It has 105 mile-long segments that run from the Aucilla River to Yankeetown and offer a bountiful array of marine and birdlife. There's even a nearby boat ramp so you can launch your kayaks right into the saltwater lagoon just watch out for schools of tarpon though! Here are some great places to visit if you want alligators-free kayaking in Florida.1. Emus, giraffes, camels, antelopes, water buffalo, and other exotic species may be seen at the Wild Florida Drive-thru Safari, which is located approximately an hour south of Orlando. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here. This is something that you would say to someone who has never seen an alligator before. The first thing most people think of when considering kayaking in Florida is alligators. 11 The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',124,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_4',124,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0_1'); .medrectangle-3-multi-124{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. 1. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. The main feature is the 9-mile Manatee River Paddling Trail. When is the best time to see manatees in Florida? The park covers over 2,300 square miles and is home to thousands of alligators. According to some people, the Suwannee River is Floridas best as it accommodates any skill level of paddler. One great option near Orlando is Lake Monroe County Park. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. For more information, call us at 321-735-9400 today. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. You should, therefore, do your research and know when the water levels are high enough to enable you to paddle comfortably. Yes, there are scorpions in Big Bend National Park. Copyright 2023 Just Go! Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. You definitely wont be alone while paddling through this spectacular natural space! CNN . Fortunately, there are plenty of reputable sources online that can help direct you to some of the best places to kayak without fear of gators. Rentals and tours are available from Crystal River Kayak Company. This kayaking paradise is not a linear water trail. The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. And close by Blue Spring State Park also offers serene views while providing good trout fishing on their large spring pond. As well the human population that interacts with the Nile is much higher. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. Know Now! A novice can find adventure in a one-hour paddle or the seasoned veteran can tie several segments together for an all-day . Instead, it is three interconnected areas, each with its unique attributes. 2. 2 where to kayak in florida without alligators; 3 Santa Fe River; 4 The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River; 5 The Manatee River; 6 Madison Blue Spring State Park; 7 Do Alligators Attack Kayaks? Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. Hey there kayak lovers! There is something for everyone. Located in the Ocala National Forest, you'll find that this hidden gem is less crowded than some of the other kayak spots around Orlando. Ultimately there are many diverse locations throughout Florida offering safe (alligator free!) Search no more! The Great Calusa Blueway. This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. If youre looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. If you see an alligator, stay at least 50 yards away from it and don't feed them. Additionally alongside most springs you'll often find campgrounds providing convenient spots often right alongside waterways allowing visitors ample opportunity dip their boats into cool temperatures 365 days outa' year while having a basecamp they can return each day after paddlin' round larger regions - this gives newcomer kayakers ample time refine their craft before hitting bigger open waters later down the line if desired at all! In most areas, the water is less than 10 feet, but there are some areas where the water is around 25 feet. In a few incidents, alligators have actually bitten canoes and kayaks, resulting in minor injuries to people and damage to their boats. All in all, there are so many amazing spots across Florida where you can take part in a safe yet exhilarating kayaking experience no matter if youre a beginner or experienced pro - guaranteed those who come here seeking adventure will not be disappointed! Suwannee River Wilderness. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. The Suwannee River: Start off in the swamps north of Okeechobee, then head along this stunning river as it winds its way towards Suwannees outlet bay coasts near Tampa Bay! This beautiful state park is home to the Weeki Wachee River, a popular spot for kayakers. Don't test how close you can get to the alligator. With so many of these predators roaming around, one might anticipate fatal alligator attacks are a regular occurrence. The goal of SNAP is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. The variety here is breathtaking as visitors paddle up low lying creeks where they can gaze at remarkable birds among pristine trees draped in mosses and lichens before reconnecting with their destination shoreline. Happy reading! Leave no trace. These are also things that one might warn a . But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. time to kayak out of the area into safety. Keep in mind that due to its size Lake Okeechobee can sometimes experience windy weather so its important to be aware and prepared for more challenging conditions than expected when venturing out here. Blackwater River. 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What is the Steering Wheel on a Boat Called? The current is steady, and you could paddle for three hours and at a good pace or relax and enjoy the scenery. A post shared by Dry Tortugas National Park (@drytortugasnps) One of the best snorkeling spots in Florida is located 70 miles west of Key West. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges people to keep their distance if they see an alligator. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. Best places for kayaking in Florida. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? . Eight major crystal-clear springs join the Ichetucknee River. So, it would have been very easy for someone to take an egg or a hatchling home, just kind of without anyone noticing," Jarrod Forthman . Kayaking in this river may be challenging since the water can get relatively low. With its tropical climate and abundance of waterways, Florida's waterways are a paradise for kayakers. Tampa Bay, Crystal River & Spring Park, Ichetucknee Springs State Park and Fort De Soto County Park are some of the best places to kayak in Florida. The water is crystal blue, and the wildlife is stunning. With over 8,000 miles of coastline and thousands of lakes, rivers and even springs to explore, the Sunshine State offers something for every level of kayaker. That is why although there have been kayak attacks by alligators, they have not been many. Crystal River is well known as a great manatee spotting site, and leads to Three Sisters Spring, a beautiful kayaking site. Alligators have pretty scarce here since the area doesn't contain enough food sources to sustain them. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! 6. Where Can You Kayak In Florida Without Alligators? What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? Throwing rocks, casting too close to a group . They won't attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. Lake Kissimmee, near Orlando, comes in second with just shy of 2,000. Following are some tips you should follow and keep yourself safe in the waters of Florida. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. "They shouldn't be fed," and "Stay at least fifty yards away from them.". These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. There are not many places in Florida where you can be assured they are alligator-free. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. Here, you can rent a kayak or take a guided tour along the river, where you will find beautiful springs where to stop and explore. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Florida wildlife officials have now killed a nearly 12-foot alligator that swam within inches of a frightened paddleboarder in a popular state park during an encounter in September recorded on video that went viral. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. He said that they are not made for chasing prey and that making a lot of noise can scare off an alligator. Formerly known as Dunn's Lake, this sparkling spot covers more than 15,900 acres in North Central Florida. At waterfront parks, be cautious with your dog around shorelines. The Best Disney Springs Happy Hours in 2022 - Just Go! Running along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Manatee River includes wide waterways that span all of 46 miles, stretching to Tampa Bay. The Loxahatchee River. - Kayak-sensei. getupandgokayaking. Be sure to heed these warnings and avoid paddling in areas where alligators are known to be present. It is located in the Silver river springs state park in Ocala. Kayaking in these locations will give you an amazing experience. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. You will find everything from calm waters for beginners to rapids for experts. Seeing gators on the state's lakes is most likely the experience of fishermen who are on the hunt for bass and sunfish. With zero pressure from swimmers or motor boats it's perfect for those wanting a less invaded area and its completely free from alligator presence too! The Suwanee River is a 246-mile river that runs all the way from northwest Florida to the Gulf of Mexico. If youre looking for a way to get out on the water without worrying about pesky alligators, then look no further than Florida! We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. Learn More{{/message}}. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. The ones you simply cannot go without visiting. Contents. "Alligators are dangerous animals.". Paddling upstream may be difficult, but you can manage if you want a challenge. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. A rash guard or swim shirt will help protect your skin from the sun, and a hat will help keep you cool. Find the trail maps here: Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. The park offers a 13-mile paddle trail for experienced kayakers but more importantly has no gators! (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). Before entering the network of tunnels you are likely to see dolphins and manatees. Alligators can swim as fast as 20mph with the help of their tails and webbed feet. This beautiful and diverse state has many amazing kayaking spots where you can paddle without seeing any gators. This requires slightly more effort than Weeki Wachee but still can be done by inexperienced kayakers.
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