KNOW BEFORE YOU GO! The river will be closed starting January 13, 2025 for a minimum of two weeks to clean up additional downed trees from the hurricanes this year. The North Entrance trails, Head Spring and Blue Hole will remain open during this time.

paddling adventures

Reservations are stongly encouraged!

Three trip experiences are available from the

 Ichetucknee Springs State Park South Entrance.

paddle ichetucknee

3.5 Mile Experience (2 hours)

Beginning near the head spring, discover the splendor of nature paddling the Ichetucknee River. Park at the South Entrance where you will be transported by van or bus to the North Canoe/Kayak Launch to start your trip. Paddle with the gentle current of the Ichetucknee to Last Takeout, where you will will exit and ride the open-air tram back to the south parking lot. Open until daily limit of 100 boats has been met.

Group paddle

Extended Rivers paddle

9 Mile Experience (4-6 hours)

Designed for the experienced kayaker, enjoy an extended trip along the Ichetucknee and Santa Fe Rivers. 

Start your paddle from the North Launch, paddling downstream with the current, ending at William Guy Lemmon Park (U.S. Highway 129 bridge). Offered seasonally; Canoes and Kayaks only.  

Arrive by 10 am for this paddle. Paddlers must be off the river by 3 pm.  Includes return transportation from William Guy Lemmon Park back to the park’s South Entrance parking lot.

Couple paddle boarding the Ichetucknee River

DAMPIER'S LANDING paddle

Up to 5.5 Miles (1.5 to 5 hours)

Stand-up Paddleboards, Kayaks, and Canoes available for this trip. Beginning at the South Entrance of the park, launch at Dampier’s Landing and paddle upstream. Paddle as far as you want, up to 2.75 miles upstream, near the head spring. Then, turn around and enjoy the easy return paddle to with the gentle current of the Ichetucknee. Current varies, 1-3 mph. Exit at Dampier’s Landing.  Arrive by 3 pm for this paddle (No daily boat limit). Reservations are available.

 

Paddling rentals

Open Daily from 9 am to 4 pm (must be off river by 5 pm)

 Rental price includes Life Vests, Paddles and Transportation. Gate entry fee is separate. Prices do not include sales tax.

Note: Online Reservations are available and recommended on weekends.

How to Paddle at Ichetucknee Springs State Park
in Four easy steps!

  1. Park at South Entrance
  2. Choose your watercraft rental* and trip
  3. Take shuttle to starting point (for north launches)
  4. Paddle Ichetucknee River to Designated Takeout for your trip
 

*includes paddles and life jackets

SAVE TIME! Reserve your paddle experience and complete your waiver form online prior to your visit OR complete the downloadable Paddling Adventures Waiver prior to your visit and bring it with you.