Wekiva River Run

Wekiva River

  • Location: Near Orlando, starting at Wekiwa Springs State Park.
  • Description: A serene river with clear waters, lush vegetation, and abundant wildlife, including turtles, birds, and occasionally alligators. Great for beginners and families.
  • Route Highlights: Wekiwa Springs to the St. Johns River, with various access points along the way.
  • Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate.
  • Best Time to Go: Early morning to avoid crowds.
  • Tips: Paddle upstream first if possible; it’s easier to return downstream. Keep an eye out for gators near the banks, and watch for boats near Wekiva Island. Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the river’s sandbars.

Kayaking the Wekiva River is a fantastic experience that combines serene paddling, abundant wildlife, and beautiful scenery, making it one of the most popular paddling routes in Central Florida. Below is an in-depth guide to help you fully understand and prepare for kayaking the Wekiva River.

Wekiva River Overview

  • Location: The Wekiva River runs through the heart of Central Florida, originating from Wekiwa Springs and Rock Springs. It winds its way northeast, eventually merging with the St. Johns River.
  • Length: The Wekiva River itself stretches approximately 16 miles from Wekiwa Springs State Park to the St. Johns River.
  • Scenery: The river is flanked by lush greenery, including cypress trees, saw palmettos, and various aquatic plants. It’s a slow-moving river with clear, spring-fed water, making it ideal for spotting wildlife.

Planning Your Trip

Launch Points and Routes

  1. Wekiwa Springs State Park Launch
    • Address: 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712.
    • Description: The most popular starting point, located inside Wekiwa Springs State Park. This launch point gives you access to the main spring area and the upper portions of the river.
    • Route Options:
      • Short Route (2-4 miles round trip): Paddle upstream towards the spring and explore the headwaters, then float back downstream to the launch point.
      • Extended Route (8-16 miles round trip): Paddle downstream towards Wekiva Island, continuing all the way to the St. Johns River for a full-day adventure.
  2. Wekiva Island
    • Address: 1014 Miami Springs Dr, Longwood, FL 32779.
    • Description: A popular halfway point and a great spot for a break. Wekiva Island offers rentals, a bar, food options, and restrooms. This is a common entry and exit point for shorter trips.
    • Route Options:
      • Paddle upstream to Wekiwa Springs for a more challenging workout, then return downstream.
      • Paddle downstream to explore the river towards the St. Johns River.
  3. Katie’s Landing
    • Address: 262 Wekiva Park Dr, Sanford, FL 32771.
    • Description: A quieter launch site located further downstream, closer to the St. Johns River. Ideal for those looking to paddle upstream towards Wekiva Island and back.
    • Route Options: Paddle upstream to Wekiva Island or Wekiwa Springs, then float back.

Best Time to Kayak

  • Time of Year: The best time to kayak the Wekiva River is in the spring or fall when temperatures are moderate. Summer is also popular, but be mindful of afternoon thunderstorms.
  • Time of Day: Early morning paddles offer calm waters, fewer crowds, and better wildlife viewing opportunities. Weekends can be busy, so weekdays are preferable for a quieter experience.

What to Expect on the Water

River Conditions

  • Water Clarity: The Wekiva River is spring-fed, providing clear water that allows you to see the sandy bottom, fish, and aquatic plants. The water is shallow in many areas but can reach depths of up to 8-10 feet in the deeper sections.
  • Current: The current is gentle, making it accessible for paddlers of all skill levels. However, paddling upstream requires more effort.
  • Obstacles: Be prepared to navigate around submerged logs, tree roots, and occasional narrow passages. The river is generally wide enough for easy maneuvering.

Wildlife

  • Common Sightings: Alligators, turtles, otters, wading birds (such as herons and egrets), and fish like bass and gar are frequently seen along the river. Manatees can occasionally be spotted near the confluence with the St. Johns River, especially in colder months.
  • Safety Tips: Maintain a safe distance from alligators. They are generally not aggressive but should never be approached or fed.

Facilities and Amenities

  • Wekiwa Springs State Park: Offers restrooms, picnic areas, a concession stand, kayak rentals, and a swimming area at the spring. The launch area is easily accessible with a small dock for putting in.
  • Wekiva Island: Offers additional amenities such as a full bar, food options, restrooms, and areas to relax. It’s a great halfway point for resting and socializing.
  • Katie’s Landing: A simpler launch with basic amenities like restrooms and picnic areas.

Route Highlights

  1. Wekiwa Springs: The source of the river, Wekiwa Springs is a popular swimming hole with crystal-clear water and sandy bottoms. The spring area is crowded in the summer but beautiful to explore by kayak early in the day.
  2. Emerald Cut: A narrow, winding section just downstream from Wekiwa Springs, known for its stunning water clarity and lush surroundings. This section requires careful paddling due to tight turns and occasional fallen trees.
  3. Wekiva Island: About 3.5 miles downstream from Wekiwa Springs, this area is lively and provides a perfect place to take a break. The island often hosts live music and events, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
  4. Turtle Island: A small, sandy spot located between Wekiva Island and the St. Johns River, often used by paddlers to stop and rest. It’s great for a picnic and watching turtles bask on logs.
  5. Confluence with the St. Johns River: For those taking the full route, the Wekiva River merges with the St. Johns River, opening up to broader, more open waters. This area has diverse wildlife, including occasional sightings of manatees and bald eagles.

Safety Tips

  • Life Jackets: Florida law requires life jackets on board for all paddlers, and they must be worn by children under six.
  • Weather Awareness: Be mindful of afternoon thunderstorms in the summer months. If you hear thunder, get off the water immediately and seek shelter.
  • Navigation: Bring a map or GPS; although the river is well-marked, it’s easy to get turned around in the many side channels and tributaries.

Final Thoughts

Kayaking the Wekiva River offers an unforgettable experience, blending the beauty of Florida’s natural landscapes with the thrill of exploration. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely paddle or a full-day adventure, this river caters to paddlers of all levels. Plan ahead, respect the wildlife, and take the time to enjoy the serene environment that makes the Wekiva River one of Central Florida’s premier kayaking destinations.