Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Silver Springs
Apr
Where to launch:
Silver Springs State Park
5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488
Drive right when entering the parking lot towards the launch/unloading area
Fees:
If you want to rent directly from the park, visit their website.
BYOB – $4 launch fee + $2 per person entrance into State Park
Rules (park/state/fed)
What to bring:
Board & Paddle
Life Jacket
Sunscreen
Hat
Water
Snacks
Whistle
Camera (for Monkeeeeez!)
Time:
1-2 hours minimum (if doing the short loop)
Longer if you want to paddle down Fort King Waterway
Level:
Beginner – Intermediate
There is a bit of a current paddling up stream (~3.5 MPH) to it will require constant paddling but isn’t very difficult. There are glass bottom boats out on the waterway so it’s important to keep an eye out from traffic.
Distance:
The loop is about 2 miles – But you can paddle down the waterway so you’re going with the stream (continue straight under the bridge, instead of turning right).
Things to see:
Silver Springs is a 1st Magnitude Spring averaging about 359 million gallons per day. The water near the spring head is stunning, crystal clear and a beautiful turquoise blue. Near the spring head be sure to paddle out by the boats to see statues underwater. There is a sunken ship and many blue holes worth paddling over. When going through the canal look for monkeys, alligators, birds and many turtles. Monkeys are not always a guarantee, but we’ve seen them about every other time we go. If you hear them, they’re nearby.
Best time:
The park opens at 8am. We’ve seen the monkeys more often on weekdays and in the early afternoon or when it’s warm. The waterways are pretty wide in a lot of places, and not too much traffic, but as always if you want a quieter paddle go on the weekdays or early.
