This is for you if: You want to make memories that will last a lifetime on this all-inclusive multi-day kayaking adventure on the wonderfully unique Suwannee River in Northern Florida.We are excited to bring back our latest, and possibly most unique, NOLI offering yet: the Suwannee River Multi-Day Kayak Adventure! The Suwanee River is a wild, blackwater river that runs through southern Georgia and northern Florida. Blackwater rivers are a type of slow-moving river that flow through forested wetlands and derive their color from the tannins that leach into it, giving it a transparent, darkly stained appearance resembling black tea.
Most blackwater rivers are in the Amazon basin and the southern U.S., with the Suwanee being among the best-known in North America. Our lead flatwater kayak instructor, Deb Briscoe, rates this as among the most enjoyable trips she has ever done because of the ease of the paddle down this beautifully unique river, with a sandy bottom and wide-open springs to paddle into that have crystal clear water that shimmer like small blue lagoons. Our route will take us from Lafayette Blue Springs State Park near Mayo, Florida and, over the course of three days, we will paddle roughly 27 miles to reach our takeout at Ivey Memorial Park in Branford, Florida. We will maintain a leisurely pace, stopping often to take breaks, swim, snorkel and rope swing in the springs for those interested.
You'll even have the opportunity to jump from a high dive platform into a spring at one of the parks we encounter along the way if you so desire. And at Troy Springs we'll have the opportunity to see remains of the Civil War-era steamboat Madison, which was scuttled in 1863 to keep it from being captured and is nestled in the shallow water of the spring. And along the way there are lots of opportunities to view wildlife such as waterfowl, fish, deer and armadillos. We are able to access all of these things from our kayaks, part of what makes this wilderness river trail system so special. The best highlights of all though remain the river and springs themselves.
Upon arriving you will be greeted by your instructors and meet your fellow adventurers. We limit group size to 10 to make for a more personalized experience and to minimize our footprint. Our instructors will then lead you through a review of boats, gear and safety information and we will inventory your gear to make sure you have everything you need. Next, you will be outfitted to one of our top-of-the-line recreational kayaks, paddles and life jackets and we will load up our boats so that everything stays dry and is evenly distributed.
Now the real fun begins as we take it to the water where your guides will lead you through a review of paddling strokes and techniques so that you safely get the most out of your experience before embarking downriver on our journey. Each night we will stay at state managed river camps that have camp hosts on site and full amenities, including restrooms with flush toilets and showers. Upon arriving at camp each day, we will be greeted by our very own camp cook who will have a cooler of cold drinks waiting for us followed by a delicious catered meal!
Afterwards we can play cards, throw a Frisbee or sit by the river and daydream. A few of our guides play music so you might even get to sing along around the campfire! We also stop on the second day at a local business that has a camp store and short order grill with lots of ice cream desserts! Deb often has a hot dog and a milkshake for lunch! Cold drinks and ice are also available there along with almost anything you might have forgotten.
For more information on the Suwanee River and what the area has to offer you can check out the
Florida State Park website
and the
Suwannee River Paddling Guide. We are always happy to answer any questions you may have along the way. So, if you're looking for a special destination kayak vacation where the weather is warm, the water is beautiful, the company is excellent and, best of all, the details are handled by our outstanding guides, look no further and join us for Suwanee River Muti-Day Kayak Adventure! We expect this to become one of our most popular courses and spots are limited so register early to reserve your spot. Kayak, paddle, life jacket, tent (as needed), sleeping bag, sleeping pad and dry bags are provided. Participants are welcome to bring their own kayak but will need to confirm with us ahead of time that it will be suitable for the trip. After registering your instructor will send you a complete list of items with recommendations on how to prepare and pack, as well as a link to a video where we walk you through some tips and tricks to help you get ready.