Chipola River Kayak and Base camp

3345 Caverns Road,Marianna FL 32446

27 November, 2022

Description

Florida Caverns Expedition The Camp Florida Caverns is one of the few state parks with dry (air-filled) caves and is the only state park in Florida to offer cave tours to the public. The Florida Cavern has dazzling formations of limestone stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, flowstones, and draperies. The Chipola River and Blue Hole spring provide areas for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. The Paddle Fed by numerous springs, this scenic 51-mile paddling trail flows through high bluffs, river swamps and hardwood forests, with few signs of humanity along most of the river. Chipola River is photographer’s delight with colorful fall foliage, spring wildflowers and abundant wildlife. The water alters color from clear gold to an opal-like blue, with crystal clear springs tucked along the river. Limestone bluffs and caves, part of the unique karst geology, add to the unique beauty of the Chipola River. Itinerary Saturday: Set up camp and free time in the evening to hike or bike the many trails! Group dinner fireside. Sunday: Upper section, 4.5 miles of paddling till the river goes underground at Florida Caverns S.P, we will portage (vans) then put back in and paddle 6 more miles to the Magnolia Bridge. 10.5 miles of paddling Monday: Magnolia Bridge to Johnny Boy Landing. 16.5 miles of paddling Tuesday: Johnny Boy Landing to Jehue Landing. 18 miles of paddling Wednesday: Ocheesee Pond- An amazing photographers dream! An enormous flooded cypress forest that we paddle through. You will be thankful to have a guide that knows the way! Thursday: Merrit’s Mill Pond- A unique 202-acre spring-fed lake about 4 miles in length with crystal clear waters. Merritt’s Mill Pond flows into Spring creek, which starts just south of the dam on US 90 and is popular in the summer with throngs of people lazily floating in the cool water. Spring Creek continues for another 2.5 miles before it joins the Chipola River Paddling Trail. The Pond is encircled with tall cypress wreathed in waving Spanish moss, offering shade to paddlers who like to wind between the trees. There are crystal blue springs available to swim and snorkel in and submerged caverns offer adventure for certified cave divers. Jackson Blue, Shangri-la, Twin Caves, Hole-in-the-Wall, Gator Hole and Indian Washtub are six delightful springs to explore. Friday: Spring run from Merritt Mill Pond to the confluence of the Chipola followed by an afternoon hike. Saturday: Pack it up after breakfast and head home. Accommodations: Our lodging consists of a group campsite, covered pavilion, and a bathhouse with modern amenities. All meals will be prepared and served by your guides. All kayaks, paddling gear, transportation on the tour, guides, and permits are provided . A detailed packing list and mandatory Participant Approval Forms will be sent to you after making a reservation.