Kayaking the Rock Springs Run - Blog

By: BW Admin (2/13/2022)

Date: 2/9/2022

Rating:

Total: 1

This is a beautiful kayak run that can be done in just a few hours depending on your speed and how far you choose to paddle in each direction. We rented kayaks from King's Landing for the trip for around 50 clams. When you paddle out of the put in spot there are two directions you can go. Unfortunately both directions are up and back, so you'll be paddling against the current at some point no matter what you decide.

If you head right this is considered the scenic route so we hit this one first. It probably took us a little under an hour to paddle to the end of this stretch, the end is a barrier crossing the springs at Kelly Park. You are paddling against the current on the way to the barrier, then when you reach it you turn around and can essentially drift back to the starting point with the current. There are some beautiful stretches in this section, crystal clear waters all the way with some nice spots where you have to navigate cypress trees growing in the middle of the springs. We were there in the middle of the week so it wasn't too crowded, we only passed a few other groups. It is shallow enough to stand most of the way, plenty of spots to stop for a quick swim or photo op.

The second portion of the springs to the left of the put in spot is considered the wildlife stretch. We saw plenty of wildlife on both sections but the water is deeper and no longer crystal clear in this section, so there is a much greater chance of seeing gators. There is also a lot of floating foliage to navigate through on this section.

One of the nice things about this trip is the wildlife is so accustomed to people they barely seem to notice your presence, which makes it possible to get some extreme close ups of animals that would ordinarily high tail it at the first site of you. Highly recommended for a half day adventure, well worth the cost.

Kayaking the Rock Springs Run - Photos

by: BW Admin (2/13/2022)

(click images to view full size)

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This is the King's Landing shop where we rented kayaks for just over 50 clams per kayak. Nice outfit, the staff was extremely helpful.

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Put in spot

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This is the barrier at Kelly Park and turn around point. Down current starts here. It's easier to snap more photos and videos on the way back when you're with the current, as soon as you stop paddling on the way up to take a photo the current sends you sideways and it takes effort to get going.