Kayaking the Nature Coast
Paddle Into Florida’s Wild Beauty
Within a short drive of the resort, you’ll find a variety of unforgettable kayaking experiences. Whether you’re craving remote wilderness, vibrant springs, or coastal estuaries, we can guide you to the perfect launch spot. Here are the standout rivers our guests love most:
Waccasassa River & Wekiva Run
A true “Old Florida” river, the Waccasassa is peaceful, shaded, and wonderfully wild. The Wekiva Run or Wekiva Creek is a spring-fed tributary of the Waccasassa River with clear, shallow water.
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Quiet, Remote Atmosphere – Ideal for guests seeking solitude and nature immersion.
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Cypress & Palm Corridors – Paddle through towering trees draped in Spanish moss.
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Abundant Wildlife – Look for herons, egrets, turtles, and the occasional otter.
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Gentle, Slow-Moving Water – Perfect for beginners or relaxed paddlers.
This is one of the best spots for a serene, immersive Nature Coast paddle. Located 20 minutes from Black Prong, it can be accessed by the Waccasassa River Park boat ramp.
Rainbow Springs & Rainbow River
Famous for its dazzling clarity, Rainbow Springs offers one of the most breathtaking paddling experiences in Florida.
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Pristine, Crystal-Clear Water – Turquoise, spring-fed, and visually stunning.
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Gentle Current – Easy paddling for all ages and experience levels.
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Lush Shorelines – Palms, aquatic plants, and colorful fish throughout the river.
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Popular but Worth It – We can help you choose launch times that avoid peak crowds.
Perfect for photography, families, and anyone who loves spring-fed waterways. Kayak launch is available at the KP Hole Park, or you can rent a kayak from the Rainbow Springs State Park. Located 31 minutes from Black Prong.
Crystal River
Known for its manatees and remarkable clear water, Crystal River offers a magical paddling experience.
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Manatee Encounters (Seasonal) – Winter months often bring gentle giants to the springs.
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Three Sisters Springs Area – One of the most beautiful spring systems in Florida.
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Mix of Springs & Coastal Waterways – Offers both freshwater and brackish zones to explore.
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A Bit Busier – We recommend early mornings or weekdays for the quietest experience.
A must-do paddle for anyone who loves wildlife and true Florida springs. The city of Crystal River operates a public boat ramp just 34 minutes from Black Prong.
Suwannee River
A legendary blackwater river with a peaceful, historic charm.
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Wide, Slow-Moving Waterway – Ideal for longer, scenic paddles.
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High Limestone Banks & Sandbars – Beautiful, varied river features.
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Old Florida Scenery – Cypress knees, overhanging oaks, and remote river bends.
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Quiet & Less Crowded – A great choice for paddlers who love broader, more open rivers.
Perfect for full-day adventures or anyone wanting to explore Florida’s natural heritage. This river can be accessed through the Manatee Springs State Park, which is 36 minutes from Black Prong and also offers kayak rentals and concessions.
Solid & Inflatable Kayaks
Guests can check out hard-sided or inflatable kayaks at the Activities Barn! Please let the front office know that you want to check out a kayak, and they will have one of our grounds crew meet you down at the Activities Barn to pickup your kayak. Paddles, life jackets, and helmets are also provided.
Driftsun Inflatable Kayaks
This easily portable option packs into a backpack that can be stowed in the trunk of a car for transport, no truck needed!
Check-out this video for a quick guide on how to inflate your kayak! Please note that this video is for a different model so the PSI requirements are different. Please use the PSI requirements printed on your kayak.
Kayaks are due back at the Activities Barn at 4 PM. All guests must have a signed waiver on-file before being permitted to check out a kayak.
