Best Waterways in Florida

Trying to find the best waterways in Florida? Bivy has great hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, skiing, riding and more, with hand-curated trail maps, as well as detailed driving directions.

1

Florida, Titusville

01 :47 hrs
4 mi
1.4283485 ft
I

Fox Lake is a small but scenic lake that offers quiet waters and undeveloped shoreline for exploration in a designated recreation area. The site offers a convenient boat launch area as well as picnic areas and hiking trails. Fox Lake also connects to South Lake by way of a small channel which is a scenic waterway that leads to an even larger lake that is great for additional exploration.

2

Florida, Hernando County

02 :26 hrs
5.4 mi
4.065143 ft
I

The Weeki Wachee River is a enjoyable and scenic day paddle that explores the clear and wildlife-filled river in the heart of Florida's Nature Coast. The clear water makes it easy to see lots of underwater wildlife including fish, turtles, alligators, and manatees. The put-in is at the state park which is home to a mermaid show that takes place in the springs. The river is slow flowing and very mild but there are not any other access points between the state park and Roger's Park.

3

Florida, Bradenton

01 :34 hrs
3.7 mi
25.05664 ft
I

South of SR 64 about a mile back on the Braden River.

4

Florida, Palm Beach County

03 :47 hrs
8.4 mi
4 ft
II

The Loxahatchee is one of two Wild and Scenic Rivers in Florida, the other being the Wekiva River, near Orlando. This is an an official canoe trail along a stretch of the river offers some of the best paddling available in the whole state. The run begins from the canoe launch at Riverbend Park which is easily accessible with lots of parking. The run then travels over 8 miles downstream to a take-out at Jonathan Dickinson State Park boat ramp. The canoe trail travels through mostly undeveloped natural terrain that is home to lots of wildlife, including multiple species of endangered birds. There are two small dams that can either be run or portaged. Both Riverbend Park and Jonathan Dickinson State Park offer picnic areas and lots of hiking and biking trails.

5

Alabama, Geneva County

01 :27 hrs
3.6 mi
1.7984886 ft
SK I

As part of the Geneva State Park, this lake sits within a primarily longleaf pine timber forest. Begin your trip upon the lake from the boat ramp located off Forest Lake Road. From here enjoy this 100 acre lake that also provides great fishing. This area also offers great birding opportunities. A daily use fee of $2 is required. Signs are posted around the lake to caution you of Alligators that may be present.

6

Florida, Volusia County

00 :21 hrs
0.4 mi
0.990048 ft
I

Blue Springs is the largest spring on the St. Johns River and is a scenic and enjoyable paddling destination that provides opportunity to view lots of wildlife including manatees. The water is crystal clear and warm. The run is not open between mid November and mid March for manatee season. The park also offers easy access to the St. John's River which provides miles of additional paddling. The park is popular and reaches capacity so be sure to arrive early.

7

Florida, Monroe County

04 :38 hrs
11.6 mi
- ft
SK IV

Located north of Key West, this group of small islands is a worthwhile destination for paddlers looking for a challenging all-day trip in the backcountry waters off of Boca Chica Key. Despite the close proximity to Key West, the Lower Harbor Keys are very remote and are a great place to find solitude and view wildlife.The water can be hard to navigate during bad weather and there can also be strong tidal currents so it is important to be aware of the conditions before setting out. Ideally it is best to arrive right after low tide to avoid the strong tidal currents that can arise. Also for safety, paddle with another kayak and be sure to have plenty of water, sunscreen, maps/compass, and other safety equipment that may prove useful.

8

Florida, Miami-Dade County

01 :37 hrs
2 mi
0.076261625 ft
SK I

Located just 15 miles from the busy metropolis of Miami, Bill Baggs Cape State Park offers lots of opportunity for outdoor recreation including miles of well-known scenic shoreline for paddling. The state park offers access to the water on the east side of the park at Beach Access #1 where a trail leads down from the parking lot to the beach. A boat dolly is recommended as the portage is a few hundred feet away. Launching from the park allows paddlers to explore the popular shoreline around the cape including the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse. Mild currents and windy conditions can result in some rough paddling so only make the trip if conditions permit and stay close to the shoreline when paddling.

9

Florida, Bradenton

0-1 :60 hrs
- mi
1.2264951 ft
I

Perfect day to be out before the storms hit: Sep 12, 2018

10

Mississippi, Gulfport

10 :15 hrs
12.8 mi
0.3679123 ft
SK V

The Gulf Islands National Seashore is one of the prime places to paddle along the Mississippi Coast and is headquartered in Ocean Springs. Cat Island is the westernmost island and is a perfect playground for paddlers. Its unique T-shape was created by colliding Gulf currents. The beautiful sandy beaches are backed by dense forests of slash pines and live oaks. Bayous and marshes on Cat Island are home to alligators as well as refuge to migratory birds. The scenery is spectacular and there are many places to explore.

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