Kayaking the Nature Coast
Explore Old Florida by Water
How it works:
- Check in at the Black Prong Activities Barn between 9 AM and 2 PM.
- Sign a waiver and receive life vests, paddles, kayak keys, directions, and an optional GPS/satellite communicator.
- Drive approximately 20 minutes to the Gulf Hammock launch site to retrieve and launch your kayak at the public boat ramp.
- After your paddle, return and lock the kayaks by 4 PM.
This experience is ideal for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike, with slow-moving water and a quiet, immersive atmosphere.
Other Kayak Destinations
For guests looking to explore beyond the Waccasassa River, the following destinations offer unforgettable paddling experiences.
The locations below all offer outstanding kayaking experiences but, unlike our Waccasassa kayaking experience, require you to bring a kayak with you. The Black Prong activities barn has kayaks available for guest check out, both hard-sided and inflatable, depending upon your preference and your vehicle’s ability to haul a kayak.
- Rainbow Springs & Rainbow River (~30 Minutes from Black Prong)
Crystal-clear turquoise water, gentle currents, and lush shorelines—perfect for photography and families. - Suwannee River (~40 Minutes from Black Prong)
A legendary blackwater river with high limestone banks, sandbars, and quiet, scenic stretches ideal for longer paddles. Manatee Springs State Park charges a fee, but it has a parking lot and a kayak launch. - Crystal River & Three Sisters Springs (~40 minutes from Black Prong)
Often crowded during manatee viewing season, but famous for viewing these majestic sea cows (during the winter), and a mix of spring-fed and coastal paddling. Kings Bay Park is the recommended kayak launch to access Three Sisters Springs from the water.