Ever want to get away from the crowds while you're kayaking or paddling a canoe?  Head to Cedar Key, FLorida and check out the Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park.  If you like kayak fishing then this is the place for you.  Anglers can fish either freshwater or saltwater in the preserve.  It can only be reached by the water, so crowds are somewhat less of a problem.  For more info call (352) 543-5567

If you're looking for a place to take the whole family for a weekend of fun, look no further than Jacksonville, FL.  There you will find Big Talbot Island State Park.  This park provides plenty of opportunity for recreational kayaking, canoe paddling, hiking, picnicking and photography.  This park is rather unique in that it's located on one of Florida's sea islands.  It's basically a preserve and showcases plenty of birdlife and habitat.  Check it out at http://bit.ly/c9nlkk.  For more information contact (904) 251-2320.

Less than five miles from St. Augustine, Florida, Anastasia State Park has something for the entire family, the Anastasia State Park Beach Bash.  Saturday, June 5, 2010 is a special day at the park.  There will be sand sculpting, scavenger hunts, guided walks and more.  For more info contact (904) 461-2033.  Recreational canoe and kayak enthusiasts can put into Salt Run, a tidal salt marsh for some paddling time.

So, you think that Florida may not have any rapids?  Think again.  Big Shoals State Park near White Springs, Florida has the largest whiteater rapids in the state.  Of course, you need to wait until there is enough rainfall to get the Suwannee River water level somewhere over 58 feet above sea level .  Recreational kayak and canoe paddlers will have great fun when conditions are right.

Hillsborough County, Florida near Tampa will feature the Talon Adventure Race on May 1, 2010.  This ten hour race will be held at the Alafia River State Park.  For more info contact 1-800-877-2351.

The panhandle area of Florida offers beautiful areas in which to kayak.  One of your options would be to try Big Lagoon State Park near Perdido Key and the Gulf of Mexico.  The park is suitable for every taste and offers chances to kayak, canoe, hike, picnic, birdwatch or just relax.  It's located at 12301 Gulf Beach Highway in Pensacola, Florida.  For more info call 850-492-1595.  Florida State Parks are celebrating their 75th anniversary, so some offer reduced prices/discounts on certain days or park features.

Visitors to Florida's panhandle region will enjoy the Ecofina River State Park in Lamont, Florida.  With over 4,000 acres to explore, you're sure to find something interesting.  Grab your canoe or kayak and head out to the Ecofina River.  It meanders through the park down to the Gulf of Mexico.

Blackwater River State Park in Florida's panhandle (Holt, FL) has a full service campground and is a favorite with kayakers and canoeists. The Blackwater River starts in Alabama before winding its way down to Florida. It's considered a Florida canoe trail and is a popular spot to paddle. The park doesn't offer rentals so bring your own canoes or kayaks. Alternatively, there are vendors near the parks that can rent you the paddling equipment or even inner tubes for tubing. For kayaking, canoe paddling, tubing or camping information Call (850) 983-5363.  The address is  Blackwater River State Park, 7720 Deaton Bridge Road, Holt, FL  32564

Ready for some fun paddling?  Head to Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park in Punta Gorda, Florida.  This park stretches over two counties, Lee and Charlotte County and offers canoe enthusisasts and yakkers a chance to paddle 70 miles of shoreline.  Contact (941) 575-5861 for more information.  The entire family can have fun on the water at Charlotte Harbor!

Kayak racing will take place this year in Labuan, Malaysia as the Malaysia Water Festival 2010 begins.  The event runs from April 27, 2010 until May 2, 2010.  It promises to be an exciting time!  Check it out at the following website:  http://www.labuantourism.gov.my/

Whether it's snorkeling over a reef, paddling a kayak or canoe, fishing from shore or a boat  Bahia Honda State Park is a great place to enjoy all those activities.  Located south of Marathon Key between the Gulf of Mexico & the Atlantic Ocean in south Florida.  The crystal waters beckon.  Bring the entire family for some fun outdoors activities.  Recreational kayaking is at its best here.  Check out the campsites and cabins, but bring bug repellent if you stay.   Call (305) 872-2353 for more info.

During the WW II period, the US Navy trained "frogmen" (now SEALS) at a spot off the coast of Ft. Pierce, FL.  Avalon State Park is the place to check this out.  There are stilll concrete barriers and steel underwater, so care needs to be taken.  Check it out at http://www.floridastateparks.org/avalon.

Part of the Island Earth Days Festival at Honeymoon Island State Park, in Dunedin, Florida, the Shark Bite Challenge runs April 17 & 18th, 2010.  The Challenge will feature canoe and kayak marathons, paddleboards, outrigger races, live entertainment, food and more.  Check it out!  For more info contact (727) 510-3493.

Kayakers will have a chance to compete in a 17.5 km race in Sydney, Australia.  The Kayak for Kids 2010 will be held March 28, 2010.  Proceeds will go to help intellectually & developmentally disabled persons.  Check out Lifestart for Kids  @ http://www.lifestart.org.au/.     

In February there's going to be an exciting race in South America in Tierra del Fuego.  It combines several elements including sea kayaking, trekking, ropes and more.  Really something to keep looking for.  This is one for the experts!  Check it out at the following link: 

http://www.patagonianexpeditionrace.com/index.php

Prince William Sound is located on the south coast of Alaska.  The sound is part of the Gulf of Alaska.   Recreational sea kayaking here takes place during the summer months.  All sorts of wildlife including bear and waterfowl may be encountered.  Paddlers have to be aware of the tidal influences that occur every six hours as it makes for strong currents.  A knowledge of the coastal conditions in Alaska is extremely advisable for recreational paddlers.  A good guide is essential for sea kayaking Prince William Sound.  Challenge Alaska offers an adaptive program for paddlers with disabilities so that many people who thought it was impossible to paddle this area can have the opportunity to experience it first hand. 

Pinellas County in Florida is home to the Caladesi Island State Park.  Accessible only by kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, boat or ferry service the park is a completely natural island along the Gulf Coast.  A three mile kayak trail weaves around the bay and the mangroves.  Hiking is permitted on the island.  No pets are allowed, so don't bring your dogs.  For more information phone 727-469-5918.

Lake Griffin State Park near Fruitland Park, Florida offers access to the Dead River.  Fall is a good time to go paddling.  The water levels are generally up and the algae bloom has somewhat abated.  The park has access to Lake Griffin from Dead River.  For more information phone 352-360-6760. 

Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway in Parker County, Texas offers campsites, boat rentals, kayak rentals, canoe rentals and more.  The park is open daily except for those days dedicated to  Public Hunts.  At Lake Mineral Wells you can focus on some easy paddling and recreational kayaking.  You and your family have the opportunity to see deer, raccoons, waterfowl and more wildlife in this State Park.  Call 940-328-1171 for more information.

Believe it or not, North Miami, Florida is the site of the largest urban urban park in the state of Florida.  Oleta River State Park provides recreational yakkers and other outdoor enthusiasts a place to focus on and get away from it all without really leaving town.  This is a really great place for bikers too with over 15 miles of trails.  Kayakers and canoeists can paddle the Oleta River and see a nice mangrove forest with plants and animals native to South Florida.  A concession stand which is open from 9 am until about 1½ hours before sunset rents kayaks, canoes and bicycles if you don’t feel like packing in your own gear.  Call 305-919-1844 for more info of visit http://www.floridastateparks.org/oletariver  

Bald Point State Park offers budget friendly fun activities for the entire family. It is a popular place for hiking, biking, fishing, bird watching kayaking and canoing. Fall is probably the best time of the year to focus on recreational paddling in the northwest area of Florida. Some of the best recreational kayak and canoing areas can be found at Bald Point State Park on Florida's Gulf Coast. The park offers recreational yakkers and canoeists access to freshwater lakes, tidal creeks and two bays (Ochlockonee Bay and Apalachee Bay). Migratory birds including neotropical species as well as butterflies make Bald Point State Park a stop on their annual trips to Central and South America. Of course raptors tend to flock into the park during this time to focus on and take advantage of all the plentiful food sources. Park admission (in 2009) is $4.00 USD per vehicle for up to 8 people. Pedestrians and cyclists pay $2.00 per head. Bald Point State Park is open daily from 8 am until sundown. Bring plenty of bug repellent because mosquitoes and sand flies may be present year-round. The park is about a mile south of Ochlockonee Bay, off of US. Highway 98. Contact Bald Point State Park, 146 Box Cut, Alligator Point, FL 32346 or phone 850-349-9146 for more information.

At the north end of Singer Island in North Palm Beach County, Florida is the John D. MacArthur State Park and Nature Center. This is the only state park in Palm Beach County. It's located on a barrier island off SR 703 (A1A). This is a good spot for recreational kayaking.  The park is open daily (365 days a year) from 8 am until sundown. There's a free launch site for yakkers and canoe paddlers within the John D. MacArthur State Park. However, kayakers and other paddlers can also join a ranger led tour by making arrangements beforehand. Weekends and winter are the most popular paddling dates (most likely to be fully booked), so call ahead at the main gate 561-624-6950 to reserve a spot. The tours are $20 per single kayak and $35 per double. Munyon Island and the Lake Worth Lagoon estuary are the preferred routes for the trip. Independent kayak rentals are available from 9 am until 3 pm with returns no later than 4 pm. For the non-paddlers at John D. MacArthur State Park there are always things to do too-nature walks, picnics and the beach are popular. Just a thought for saving money-by becoming a member of the Friends of MacArthur Beach State Park, you are entitled to kayaking privileges on every visit, discounts at the gift shop and more.   For more info contact  John D. MacArthur State Park and Nature Center at 10900 Jack Nicklaus Drive, North Palm Beach, Florida 33408. Phone 561-624-6952 or 561-624-6950.

The Candace R. Strawn/Lake Dias Park near DeLeon Springs, Florida offers a free launch site for canoes and kayaks. The park is open sunrise to sunset 365 days a year. There are also picnic tables, grills, pavilions, restrooms, a playground and primitive tent camping/RV sites. This is a 20 acre park with a freshwater lake.   The park is at 5320 SR 11, DeLeon Springs, Florida.   Call 386-736-5953 for more information.

 In southeast Florida, the Loxahatchee River winds through the lands of Jonathan Dickinson State Park. This river is the first in Florida to be designated by the federal government as a Wild and Scenic River. The park is open from 8 am until sunset year round.  Recreational kayakers, kayak fishermen and those who would rather paddle a canoe can enjoy the all year! Jonathan Dickinson State Park has camping facilities available and some cabins available to rent. Spend a weekend enjoying the recreational paddling opportunities. Jonathan Dickinson Park is south of Stuart, Florida in Martin County, near Hobe Sound. For more information call 772-546-2771.

 Just a quick note.  You may not have needed one in the past, but some states have recently revised their fishing license requirements. These requirements might apply to recreational kayak fishing. If you're a fisherman or woman using a kayak in pursuit of the elusive finned friends, be advised-you may need to secure a fishing license from the State authorities.

Here in Florida, as of August 1, 2009, fishing licenses are required even if you're shore bound, bridge, dock or pier fishers.  There are exceptions for age, disability, members of armed services, pole or hand line fishing and more. Check with your local licensing division.  It's better to be safe than sorry.  Comply with the regulations the local Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or Fish, Wildlife and Parks department have issued.  In Florida check out the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission at myFWC.com.

Paddlers take note-Ocala National Forest has a number of recreational kayak opportunities. One of them is at Juniper Springs Recreational Area. It's about 30 miles east of the I-75/SR Hwy. 40 intersection in Marion County, Florida. The entrance to the recreational area is on the north side of Hwy. 40. Juniper Creek is a 7 mile one-way run. It's very narrow in some spots. The Park Service has carts available for portage due to the fact that the launch area is quite a distance from the parking lot. Juniper Creek provides about 4 hours or so of fairly easy paddling using either canoes or kayaks. The run goes through canopied overhangs and shallow grassy areas. There are alligators, otters and fish in these waters, so focus on your surroundings. The beginning of the run has crystal clear water, but as you progress, the water becomes darker, almost the color of tea, due to the tannin in the leaves of the surrounding trees. The course winds through the National Forest and ends up near the SR 19 bridge with the Creek eventually emptying into Lake George. For a fee, a shuttle can provide pick-up service if you make arrangements when you arrive. This is a good paddling spot for the entire family.  Not too strenuous and quite beautiful.  For more info, contact Juniper Springs Recreational Area, 26701 E. Highway 40, Silver Springs, FL 34488. Phone 352-625-3147.

Flagler County is one of our favorites. This time we will focus on The Gamble Rogers State Recreation Area. This park near Flagler Beach offers opportunities for recreational kayakers, ocean kayakers and non-kayak enthusiasts too. The Recreation Area is about 3 miles south of the intersection of SR 100 and A-1-A in Flagler Beach, Florida. Coming from the south, it's about 11 miles north of the Volusia County/Flagler County line, along the west side of A-1-A. There's a boat ramp along the Intracoastal side of the park to launch your kayak from. Should you prefer ocean kayaking, you'll have to carry your gear across busy A-1-A. This park is open daily (365 days) from 8 am until sundown. A parking fee is currently (2009) about $5.00 USD There's a full facility campground just across A-1-A on the Atlantic. You might want to make a quick weekend trip here. Call 386-517-2086 for information.

Playalinda in Brevard County is the southernmost entry to the Canaveral National Seashore Park.  Volusia County near New Smyrna Beach is the north entrance (Apollo).  Canaveral National Seashore park is located on a barrier island.  Recreational kayakers have the opportunity to kayak either the Indian River and its estuaries, or sea kayak/surf kayak in the Atlantic Ocean on the east side of the park.  Recreational kayaks are available for rental outside the park. Campers are able to rent canoes within the park. Owners of fishing kayaks can enjoy a day on the water pulling in a plentiful supply of fish, including redfish, snook and more.  Be sure and have your fishing permits! There is a fee for use of the park, currently $3.00 USD per person. An annual pass can be obtained. Both park entrances have information centers. Launch sites for kayaks, canoes and motor boats are available to provide access to both the Indian River and Mosquito Lagoon. Phone number for the park headquarters in Titusville, Florida is 321-267-1110.

Florida:

Ever want to get away from the crowds while you're kayaking or paddling a canoe?  Head to Cedar Key, FLorida and check out the Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park.  If you like kayak fishing then this is the place for you.  Anglers can fish either freshwater or saltwater in the preserve.  It can only be reached by the water, so crowds are somewhat less of a problem.  For more info call (352) 543-5567

If you're looking for a place to take the whole family for a weekend of fun, look no further than Jacksonville, FL.  There you will find Big Talbot Island State Park.  This park provides plenty of opportunity for recreational kayaking, canoe paddling, hiking, picnicking and photography.  This park is rather unique in that it's located on one of Florida's sea islands.  It's basically a preserve and showcases plenty of birdlife and habitat.  Check it out at http://bit.ly/c9nlkk.  For more information contact (904) 251-2320.

Less than five miles from St. Augustine, Florida, Anastasia State Park has something for the entire family, the Anastasia State Park Beach Bash.  Saturday, June 5, 2010 is a special day at the park.  There will be sand sculpting, scavenger hunts, guided walks and more.  For more info contact (904) 461-2033.  Recreational canoe and kayak enthusiasts can put into Salt Run, a tidal salt marsh for some paddling time.

So, you think that Florida may not have any rapids?  Think again.  Big Shoals State Park near White Springs, Florida has the largest whiteater rapids in the state.  Of course, you need to wait until there is enough rainfall to get the Suwannee River water level somewhere over 58 feet above sea level .  Recreational kayak and canoe paddlers will have great fun when conditions are right.

Hillsborough County, Florida near Tampa will feature the Talon Adventure Race on May 1, 2010.  This ten hour race will be held at the Alafia River State Park.  For more info contact 1-800-877-2351.

The panhandle area of Florida offers beautiful areas in which to kayak.  One of your options would be to try Big Lagoon State Park near Perdido Key and the Gulf of Mexico.  The park is suitable for every taste and offers chances to kayak, canoe, hike, picnic, birdwatch or just relax.  It's located at 12301 Gulf Beach Highway in Pensacola, Florida.  For more info call 850-492-1595.  Florida State Parks are celebrating their 75th anniversary, so some offer reduced prices/discounts on certain days or park features.

Visitors to Florida's panhandle region will enjoy the Ecofina River State Park in Lamont, Florida.  With over 4,000 acres to explore, you're sure to find something interesting.  Grab your canoe or kayak and head out to the Ecofina River.  It meanders through the park down to the Gulf of Mexico.

Blackwater River State Park in Florida's panhandle (Holt, FL) has a full service campground and is a favorite with kayakers and canoeists. The Blackwater River starts in Alabama before winding its way down to Florida. It's considered a Florida canoe trail and is a popular spot to paddle. The park doesn't offer rentals so bring your own canoes or kayaks. Alternatively, there are vendors near the parks that can rent you the paddling equipment or even inner tubes for tubing. For kayaking, canoe paddling, tubing or camping information Call (850) 983-5363.  The address is  Blackwater River State Park, 7720 Deaton Bridge Road, Holt, FL  32564

Ready for some fun paddling?  Head to Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park in Punta Gorda, Florida.  This park stretches over two counties, Lee and Charlotte County and offers canoe enthusisasts and yakkers a chance to paddle 70 miles of shoreline.  Contact (941) 575-5861 for more information.  The entire family can have fun on the water at Charlotte Harbor!

Kayak racing will take place this year in Labuan, Malaysia as the Malaysia Water Festival 2010 begins.  The event runs from April 27, 2010 until May 2, 2010.  It promises to be an exciting time!  Check it out at the following website:  http://www.labuantourism.gov.my/

Whether it's snorkeling over a reef, paddling a kayak or canoe, fishing from shore or a boat  Bahia Honda State Park is a great place to enjoy all those activities.  Located south of Marathon Key between the Gulf of Mexico & the Atlantic Ocean in south Florida.  The crystal waters beckon.  Bring the entire family for some fun outdoors activities.  Recreational kayaking is at its best here.  Check out the campsites and cabins, but bring bug repellent if you stay.   Call (305) 872-2353 for more info.

During the WW II period, the US Navy trained "frogmen" (now SEALS) at a spot off the coast of Ft. Pierce, FL.  Avalon State Park is the place to check this out.  There are stilll concrete barriers and steel underwater, so care needs to be taken.  Check it out at http://www.floridastateparks.org/avalon.

Part of the Island Earth Days Festival at Honeymoon Island State Park, in Dunedin, Florida, the Shark Bite Challenge runs April 17 & 18th, 2010.  The Challenge will feature canoe and kayak marathons, paddleboards, outrigger races, live entertainment, food and more.  Check it out!  For more info contact (727) 510-3493.

Kayakers will have a chance to compete in a 17.5 km race in Sydney, Australia.  The Kayak for Kids 2010 will be held March 28, 2010.  Proceeds will go to help intellectually & developmentally disabled persons.  Check out Lifestart for Kids  @ http://www.lifestart.org.au/.     

In February there's going to be an exciting race in South America in Tierra del Fuego.  It combines several elements including sea kayaking, trekking, ropes and more.  Really something to keep looking for.  This is one for the experts!  Check it out at the following link: 

http://www.patagonianexpeditionrace.com/index.php

Prince William Sound is located on the south coast of Alaska.  The sound is part of the Gulf of Alaska.   Recreational sea kayaking here takes place during the summer months.  All sorts of wildlife including bear and waterfowl may be encountered.  Paddlers have to be aware of the tidal influences that occur every six hours as it makes for strong currents.  A knowledge of the coastal conditions in Alaska is extremely advisable for recreational paddlers.  A good guide is essential for sea kayaking Prince William Sound.  Challenge Alaska offers an adaptive program for paddlers with disabilities so that many people who thought it was impossible to paddle this area can have the opportunity to experience it first hand. 

Pinellas County in Florida is home to the Caladesi Island State Park.  Accessible only by kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, boat or ferry service the park is a completely natural island along the Gulf Coast.  A three mile kayak trail weaves around the bay and the mangroves.  Hiking is permitted on the island.  No pets are allowed, so don't bring your dogs.  For more information phone 727-469-5918.

Wilmington, North Carolina is the setting for the second annual Cold Stroke Classic.  The race will be held January 9, 2010 at the Dockside Marina & Restauant in Wilmington.  There is a short race (3.5 mile) for the Recreational Division and a long race for the Elite Division.  Registration fees apply.

Lake Griffin State Park near Fruitland Park, Florida offers access to the Dead River.  Fall is a good time to go paddling.  The water levels are generally up and the algae bloom has somewhat abated.  The park has access to Lake Griffin from Dead River.  For more information phone 352-360-6760. 

Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway in Parker County, Texas offers campsites, boat rentals, kayak rentals, canoe rentals and more.  The park is open daily except for those days dedicated to  Public Hunts.  At Lake Mineral Wells you can focus on some easy paddling and recreational kayaking.  You and your family have the opportunity to see deer, raccoons, waterfowl and more wildlife in this State Park.  Call 940-328-1171 for more information.

Believe it or not, North Miami, Florida is the site of the largest urban urban park in the state of Florida.  Oleta River State Park provides recreational yakkers and other outdoor enthusiasts a place to focus on and get away from it all without really leaving town.  This is a really great place for bikers too with over 15 miles of trails.  Kayakers and canoeists can paddle the Oleta River and see a nice mangrove forest with plants and animals native to South Florida.  A concession stand which is open from 9 am until about 1½ hours before sunset rents kayaks, canoes and bicycles if you don’t feel like packing in your own gear.  Call 305-919-1844 for more info of visit http://www.floridastateparks.org/oletariver  

Bald Point State Park offers budget friendly fun activities for the entire family. It is a popular place for hiking, biking, fishing, bird watching kayaking and canoing. Fall is probably the best time of the year to focus on recreational paddling in the northwest area of Florida. Some of the best recreational kayak and canoing areas can be found at Bald Point State Park on Florida's Gulf Coast. The park offers recreational yakkers and canoeists access to freshwater lakes, tidal creeks and two bays (Ochlockonee Bay and Apalachee Bay). Migratory birds including neotropical species as well as butterflies make Bald Point State Park a stop on their annual trips to Central and South America. Of course raptors tend to flock into the park during this time to focus on and take advantage of all the plentiful food sources. Park admission (in 2009) is $4.00 USD per vehicle for up to 8 people. Pedestrians and cyclists pay $2.00 per head. Bald Point State Park is open daily from 8 am until sundown. Bring plenty of bug repellent because mosquitoes and sand flies may be present year-round. The park is about a mile south of Ochlockonee Bay, off of US. Highway 98. Contact Bald Point State Park, 146 Box Cut, Alligator Point, FL 32346 or phone 850-349-9146 for more information.

At the north end of Singer Island in North Palm Beach County, Florida is the John D. MacArthur State Park and Nature Center. This is the only state park in Palm Beach County. It's located on a barrier island off SR 703 (A1A). This is a good spot for recreational kayaking.  The park is open daily (365 days a year) from 8 am until sundown. There's a free launch site for yakkers and canoe paddlers within the John D. MacArthur State Park. However, kayakers and other paddlers can also join a ranger led tour by making arrangements beforehand. Weekends and winter are the most popular paddling dates (most likely to be fully booked), so call ahead at the main gate 561-624-6950 to reserve a spot. The tours are $20 per single kayak and $35 per double. Munyon Island and the Lake Worth Lagoon estuary are the preferred routes for the trip. Independent kayak rentals are available from 9 am until 3 pm with returns no later than 4 pm. For the non-paddlers at John D. MacArthur State Park there are always things to do too-nature walks, picnics and the beach are popular. Just a thought for saving money-by becoming a member of the Friends of MacArthur Beach State Park, you are entitled to kayaking privileges on every visit, discounts at the gift shop and more.   For more info contact  John D. MacArthur State Park and Nature Center at 10900 Jack Nicklaus Drive, North Palm Beach, Florida 33408. Phone 561-624-6952 or 561-624-6950.

Oceania is the latest site for earthquake activity.  News has it that a category 8 earthquake may cause some tidal surges.  Tsunami warnings were issued in the Cook Islands, Tonga and Samoa.  Apparently however there were still deaths resulting from 15-20 foot waves hitting America Samoa.  Several villages were reported to be flattened by the wave activity.  Water can definitely be a destructive force!  Always check weather and tidal conditions before venturing out to paddle!

The Candace R. Strawn/Lake Dias Park near DeLeon Springs, Florida offers a free launch site for canoes and kayaks. The park is open sunrise to sunset 365 days a year. There are also picnic tables, grills, pavilions, restrooms, a playground and primitive tent camping/RV sites. This is a 20 acre park with a freshwater lake.   The park is at 5320 SR 11, DeLeon Springs, Florida.   Call 386-736-5953 for more information.

 In southeast Florida, the Loxahatchee River winds through the lands of Jonathan Dickinson State Park. This river is the first in Florida to be designated by the federal government as a Wild and Scenic River. The park is open from 8 am until sunset year round.  Recreational kayakers, kayak fishermen and those who would rather paddle a canoe can enjoy the all year! Jonathan Dickinson State Park has camping facilities available and some cabins available to rent. Spend a weekend enjoying the recreational paddling opportunities. Jonathan Dickinson Park is south of Stuart, Florida in Martin County, near Hobe Sound. For more information call 772-546-2771.

 Just a quick note.  You may not have needed one in the past, but some states have recently revised their fishing license requirements. These requirements might apply to recreational kayak fishing. If you're a fisherman or woman using a kayak in pursuit of the elusive finned friends, be advised-you may need to secure a fishing license from the State authorities.

Here in Florida, as of August 1, 2009, fishing licenses are required even if you're shore bound, bridge, dock or pier fishers.  There are exceptions for age, disability, members of armed services, pole or hand line fishing and more. Check with your local licensing division.  It's better to be safe than sorry.  Comply with the regulations the local Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or Fish, Wildlife and Parks department have issued.  In Florida check out the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission at myFWC.com.

Paddlers take note-Ocala National Forest has a number of recreational kayak opportunities. One of them is at Juniper Springs Recreational Area. It's about 30 miles east of the I-75/SR Hwy. 40 intersection in Marion County, Florida. The entrance to the recreational area is on the north side of Hwy. 40. Juniper Creek is a 7 mile one-way run. It's very narrow in some spots. The Park Service has carts available for portage due to the fact that the launch area is quite a distance from the parking lot. Juniper Creek provides about 4 hours or so of fairly easy paddling using either canoes or kayaks. The run goes through canopied overhangs and shallow grassy areas. There are alligators, otters and fish in these waters, so focus on your surroundings. The beginning of the run has crystal clear water, but as you progress, the water becomes darker, almost the color of tea, due to the tannin in the leaves of the surrounding trees. The course winds through the National Forest and ends up near the SR 19 bridge with the Creek eventually emptying into Lake George. For a fee, a shuttle can provide pick-up service if you make arrangements when you arrive. This is a good paddling spot for the entire family.  Not too strenuous and quite beautiful.  For more info, contact Juniper Springs Recreational Area, 26701 E. Highway 40, Silver Springs, FL 34488. Phone 352-625-3147.

Flagler County is one of our favorites. This time we will focus on The Gamble Rogers State Recreation Area. This park near Flagler Beach offers opportunities for recreational kayakers, ocean kayakers and non-kayak enthusiasts too. The Recreation Area is about 3 miles south of the intersection of SR 100 and A-1-A in Flagler Beach, Florida. Coming from the south, it's about 11 miles north of the Volusia County/Flagler County line, along the west side of A-1-A. There's a boat ramp along the Intracoastal side of the park to launch your kayak from. Should you prefer ocean kayaking, you'll have to carry your gear across busy A-1-A. This park is open daily (365 days) from 8 am until sundown. A parking fee is currently (2009) about $5.00 USD There's a full facility campground just across A-1-A on the Atlantic. You might want to make a quick weekend trip here. Call 386-517-2086 for information.

Playalinda in Brevard County is the southernmost entry to the Canaveral National Seashore Park.  Volusia County near New Smyrna Beach is the north entrance (Apollo).  Canaveral National Seashore park is located on a barrier island.  Recreational kayakers have the opportunity to kayak either the Indian River and its estuaries, or sea kayak/surf kayak in the Atlantic Ocean on the east side of the park.  Recreational kayaks are available for rental outside the park. Campers are able to rent canoes within the park. Owners of fishing kayaks can enjoy a day on the water pulling in a plentiful supply of fish, including redfish, snook and more.  Be sure and have your fishing permits! There is a fee for use of the park, currently $3.00 USD per person. An annual pass can be obtained. Both park entrances have information centers. Launch sites for kayaks, canoes and motor boats are available to provide access to both the Indian River and Mosquito Lagoon. Phone number for the park headquarters in Titusville, Florida is 321-267-1110.

Florida: