Suwannee Kayak Expedition & Skills Course

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Trip Highlights

This year, trade the ordinary for something unforgettable—seven days of wild beauty, rich history, and hands-on kayaking skills, all woven into one immersive river journey.

Feel the gentle pull of the current as you paddle downstream through the untouched beauty of Florida’s Suwannee River, where time slows and nature takes center stage. On this 7-day guided kayak tour, you’ll drift past towering limestone bluffs, ancient cypress trees, and crystal-clear springs that invite a refreshing swim. The earthy scent of riverbanks lined with hardwood hammocks fills the air, while birdsong and the splash of turtles slipping into the water offer a soothing soundtrack. Evenings bring the comfort of screened-in river campsites with hot showers and cool breezes, perfect for sharing stories under the stars. Whether you're perfecting your paddle stroke or floating in silence watching a barred owl take flight, you'll feel a deep sense of peace, wonder, and connection. Led by two expert ACA instructors, this small-group experience blends skill-building, wildlife encounters, and the raw beauty of Old Florida into a transformative adventure you’ll never forget.

At A Glance

 Oct 18th - Oct 24th, 2025  All equipment included
 Group classes included  Shuttle included
 6 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners, and snacks included

Itinerary

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Your Suwannee River adventure begins bright and early in Branford, Florida. After loading up the shuttle, we’ll transport you upriver to Suwannee River State Park. Launching mid-morning, we’ll paddle past moss-draped oaks and limestone banks, stopping for a swim and picnic at Anderson Spring. Stretch your legs with an optional hike on the scenic 5-mile Trailwalker Loop before continuing on to Dowling Park River Camp. Tonight, settle into screened sleeping platforms with bathrooms and showers, and enjoy your first night under the stars.

We leave Dowling Park behind and head downstream toward Lafayette Blue Springs. Along the way, take in the peaceful flow of Charles Spring and stop to explore the quiet waters of Allen Mill Pond Spring, where remnants of a historic mill whisper tales of Florida’s past. At day’s end, take a refreshing dip in the vivid blue waters of Lafayette Blue Spring. Tonight’s accommodations are rustic and cozy at our primitive group site—perfect for storytelling and skill-building beneath the stars.

Today’s paddle is a mellow journey to the tucked-away haven of Peacock Slough River Camp. Along the way, enjoy scenic solitude, peaceful backwaters, and opportunities to spot turtles sunning on logs. Arriving early, take time to swim, snorkel, or cast a line in the waters near camp. Wind down around the evening campfire and let the day’s rhythm lull you into the tranquility of river life.

Wake up to birdsong and morning light filtering through the trees—today we stay put at Peacock Slough. Paddle to nearby Telford Spring, where submerged ledges invite curious swimmers. Participate in a kayak stroke clinic or take time to write, stretch, or simply lie back in a hammock beneath the ancient cypress. It’s a day to recharge your body and soul.

We’re back on the water today with a beautiful paddle to Adams Tract River Camp. Along the way, dip into the cool waters of Convict Spring and visit the nearby store for a treat. Pause at Royal Spring to admire its deep turquoise pool, then enjoy a peaceful walk to Owens Spring, a lesser-known gem surrounded by lush forest. As the sun sets, settle into your screened shelter and soak in the serenity.

With no mileage to cover, today offers time to refine your paddling and rescue techniques or participate in an optional ACA Skills Assessment. Prefer to relax? Go for a short nature walk, swing in a hammock, or catch up on journaling. Optional private instruction is available for those wanting to work on kayak rolls or other advanced skills. The calm of the Suwannee is yours to savor.

Your final day brings a bittersweet farewell to the Suwannee’s peaceful waters. Paddle downstream past soaring bluffs and hidden springs, stopping to explore Troy Spring, where the skeleton of the sunken Steamboat Madison rests beneath the surface. Take one last dip at Ruth Spring, then wrap up the journey with a celebratory swim in the brilliant waters of Little River Springs. Your car awaits at Ivey Memorial Park—but your memories of this wild and restorative river will linger long after the last paddle stroke.

 

Tour Info

Duration
7 days
Group Size
4 to 10
Price starts at
$1,675
Languages
English, German
Meeting Point

614 SW Ivey Memorial Park Dr Branford FL

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Dropoff location

614 SW Ivey Memorial Park Dr Branford FL

Why take this tour?

🧭 Two Certified Expert Guides & Instructors
This expedition is led by two ACA Level 4 Coastal Kayak Instructors—Anthony Sousa and Astrid Jackson—who bring decades of experience to the water. With two highly qualified guides and a limited group size, you’ll enjoy hands-on instruction, individualized support, and a more personalized, enriching paddling experience.

🦅 Remote Wilderness Escape
Enjoy true solitude in quiet stretches where motorized boats are rare and cell service fades away. Disconnect from daily life and reconnect with the rhythms of nature in this peaceful, off-the-grid experience.

📚 Group & Private Instruction
Enjoy free daily group lessons where you’ll learn efficient paddling techniques, safety skills, and the essentials of kayak camping—including how to pack, set up camp, and travel self-sufficiently. Want to go deeper? Take advantage of discounted private coaching sessions to master advanced skills like kayak rolling or refine your technique one-on-one.

🌊 Hidden Freshwater Springs
Take refreshing swims or snorkel in crystal-clear springs like Royal Spring and Troy Spring. These spring-fed oases offer perfect midday breaks and magical moments of stillness and clarity.

🏛️ Rich Cultural Heritage
Paddle through history with stops near Native American sites, Civil War-era crossings, and old settlements. This river tells stories that stretch back centuries, deepening your connection to the landscape and its legacy.

🚍 Shuttle-Supported Itinerary
Our fully supported downstream route includes a convenient shuttle, allowing you to focus on soaking in the scenery—not backtracking. Paddle one way with ease while we handle the logistics.

Included

  • All camping accommodations and gear included, featuring river camps and one night of tent camping

  • Kayak and gear rental included

  • Interpretive guidance about local wildlife, ecology, cultural landmarks, and regional history

  • Support with packing and logistics leading up to the trip

  • Opportunity to complete an ACA Skills Assessment during the trip, upon request

  • Photo package from your adventure, shared digitally after the trip

Excluded

  • Transportation to/from the tour start and end points

  • Accommodation before and after the trip

  • Trip insurance (highly recommended)

  • Gratuities for guides (never expected, always appreciated)

  • Souvenirs or personal purchases during stops or travel to/from the tour

Frequently asked questions

No worries—beginners are welcome! We offer free group coaching along the way, and optional private lessons if you want extra help. You’ll learn fast and feel confident in no time.
Totally understandable! Alligators are shy and tend to avoid kayaks. We’ve been paddling and guiding in Florida for years and never had a problem. Our guides are trained to keep you safe and relaxed.
We paddle downstream, so the current helps! It’s a steady, moderate pace with breaks, snacks, and swims. If you can walk a couple miles comfortably, you’ll be just fine.
Florida weather can be unpredictable, but we watch it closely. Light rain? We paddle. Severe weather? We adjust safely. Comfort and safety always come first.
We’ve got you covered! Most nights you’ll stay in river camps—screened shelters. Just one night we’ll camp in tents—which we provide. We will also provide sleeping pads and bags if you need them, compact gear organizers, personal eating kit (bowl, cup, utensils). All sites have bathrooms and showers. Just bring your clothes and sense of adventure.
Our standard camping kit includes a tent, sleeping pad, and sleeping bag. We also provide compact gear organizers, a personal eating kit (bowl, cup, utensils). Just let us know what you need—we’ve got you covered!
Yes! Get 10% off if you bring all your own gear—kayak, paddle, PFD, and camping kit. Or 5% off if you just bring your own camping gear (tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, gear organizers, eating kit). Or 5% off for FPTA members, military, or first responders. Let us know at the time of booking!
This one’s best for adults and older teens who can paddle independently. It’s a wilderness experience—not ideal for small kids.
This tour was designed with folks like you in mind! We keep group sizes small and the pace comfortable. You’ll have plenty of support and time to soak it all in.
Our kayaks do have weight limits, but we have a variety of sizes and capacities. Just reach out to us—we’ll make sure you’re matched with the right gear for a safe, comfortable paddle.
This tour involves getting in/out of kayaks and walking short distances on uneven terrain. If you’re unsure, just reach out—we’re happy to help you decide.
We camp at sites with real bathrooms and showers. During the day, we have respectful ways to handle nature’s calls—your guides will explain everything.
You’ll be led by Astrid and Anthony—both certified Level 4 Coastal Kayak Instructors with years of experience. You’re in expert, friendly hands the entire trip.
We recommend this trip for ages 18+. It’s ideal for adults who are excited about nature and adventure—not extreme athletes.
Most nights you'll stay in elevated, screened river shelters with electricity, bathrooms, and hot showers. One night we'll do more primitive tent camping, but we provide all the gear and there are still facilities nearby. It’s comfy, mosquito-free, and always close to nature.
You’ll be in true Florida wilderness—peaceful and unplugged—but we do have access to help if needed. Safety and comfort are always covered.
We are often asked, whether it is appropriate to tip the Trip Leaders and what a reasonable amount might be. While we have considered including such gratuities in the overall trip cost, we always come back to the belief that recognizing excellent service is a personal matter. If you feel your Trip Leaders have provided an exceptional trip experience, gratuities are encouraged—and welcomed—at the end of the trip. A typical gratuity on a 7-day Backcountry Paddling Trip is $160 per guest (about $23 per day). The gratuity is then divided among your Trip Leaders.

Things to know

Discounts & Codes

We’re happy to offer a few ways to save on your adventure! Use the following discount codes at checkout if they apply to you:

⦁ Bring Your Own: Get 10% off when you bring your own kayak gear and camping kit.
⦁ Bring Your Own Kit: Save 5% when you bring your...

We’re happy to offer a few ways to save on your adventure! Use the following discount codes at checkout if they apply to you:

⦁ Bring Your Own: Get 10% off when you bring your own kayak gear and camping kit.
⦁ Bring Your Own Kit: Save 5% when you bring your own camping kit.
⦁ FPTA Members, Military & First Responders: Enjoy 5% off with code OFF5 at checkout.

Only one discount applies per booking. Reach out if you’re unsure which one is right for you!

Trip Insurance Recommendation

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive trip insurance for this multi-day expedition. While we prioritize safety and preparedness on every tour, the Suwannee River is a remote wilderness area, and unforeseen circumstances—such as medical emergencies, personal injury, or the need for earl...

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive trip insurance for this multi-day expedition. While we prioritize safety and preparedness on every tour, the Suwannee River is a remote wilderness area, and unforeseen circumstances—such as medical emergencies, personal injury, or the need for early evacuation—can arise. Having travel insurance can help cover the costs of emergency transportation, trip interruption, and other unexpected events, giving you peace of mind so you can fully enjoy your adventure.

Cancellation Policy

Flexible cancellation policy: Read the full details here.

Flexible cancellation policy: Read the full details here.

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From $1,675

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