Paddle Florida, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation organized to support canoeing and kayaking in Florida. As part of its mission it offers supported, multi-day paddling/camping adventures throughout Florida to showcase the state’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage while promoting water conservation, wildlife preservation, springs restoration, and waterways protection. Paddle Florida also seeks to promote Florida as an international destination for nature-based tourism.
Next adventure is the Wild, Wonderful Withlacoochee Feb. 11-16, which begins at Lake Panasoffkee in Sumter County. Paddlers will thread their way through hardwood swamps and tannic streams on a 60-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico traveling through Citrus, Marion and Levy counties. The adventure includes a side trip to the colorful Rainbow River and its world class first-magnitude spring. Register here by February 1st.
Here are other trips through next spring.
Choctawhatchee Challenge
March 13-19, 2020
Get away from it all into the heart of the Panhandle as we paddle 86 miles of the mighty Choctawhatchee. This is a journey into Wild Florida where wildlife far outnumber humans, and paddlers can stumble upon spectacular springs.
Register by: February 28
Suwannee River Paddling Festival
April 3-5, 2020
With camping atop the bluff overlooking two beautiful rivers, our season-capping festival takes place at Suwannee River State Park near Live Oak. The weekend will offer supported 8-12 mile paddling options on both the Suwannee and Withlacoochee Rivers, a concert featuring Paddle Florida’s favorite musicians, and educational presentations from regional waterway experts.
Register by: March 20
Earth Day Celebration: Flori-Bama Expedition on the Perdido River
April 11-16, 2020
Paddling the Florida/Alabama border, enjoy beach camping along a cozy meandering river to the more open waters of Perdido Bay as we explore the most diverse set of ecosystems of the season.
Register by: March 28
Earth Day Celebration: Springtime on the Ochlockonee
April 18-22, 2020
From wild Tupelo honey to fresh Gulf oysters, experience the Panhandle’s Ochlockonee River which winds through state and national forest lands on 76 miles of Florida’s most remote wilderness river trail.
Register by: April 2
For more information, http://www.paddleflorida.org/