Last updated on May 8th, 2026 at 01:22 pm
One of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors during Florida’s long hot summers is to start planning where you’ll go this winter.
For ideas about paddling trips, you can find inspiration from Paddle Florida, whose Florida kayak tours for 2026-27 were announced recently.
Paddle Florida is a non-profit that supports kayaking and canoeing in Florida by organizing reasonably priced multi-day paddling and camping trips on Florida’s greatest rivers and waterways.
The beauty of these Florida kayak tours is that Paddle Florida staff researches the best locations, arranges all the logistics from camping and meals to musical entertainment around the campfire. The group even shuttles your camping gear between campsites each day, allowing you to travel light and always arrive to a dry tent and sleeping bag. Groups are limited to 100 or, in the case of the Suwanee, 200 people. These trips are a great option for solo paddlers.
Participants bring their own boats and tents or arrange to rent them (for an extra charge) from affiliated outfitters.
As you read the trip descriptions, you’ll see a nice variety: Some of these trips are beginner-level paddles; on some paddleboards are welcome; for some only sit-inside kayaks are allowed.
Florida kayak tours
Santa Fe Springs Celebration November 2-8, 2026
The Santa Fe boasts dozens of significant springs, including the celebrated paddleable Santa Fe tributary, the Ichetucknee River. Both are Florida Rambler favorites, covered here: Santa Fe and Ichetucknee.
Florida Keys Challenge January 18-24, 2027
This trip uses a cabin-based base camp with both short and long paddling options, from our basecamp each day provided by Seacamp Association, Inc. Here’s more about favorite kayaking trips in the Keys from Florida Rambler.
Blackwater River & Coldwater Creek Experience February 22-28, 2027
Near Pensacola, Blackwater River is known for its contrast of dark, tannic water with pristine, white sandy beaches and large sandbars. Coldwater Creek, a major tributary of the Blackwater River, also features sandy bottoms and broad sandbars. Here’s a Florida Rambler story on kayaking and cabins these two rivers near Milton.
Suwannee River Paddling Festival March 19-21, 2027
This annual festival takes place at Suwannee River State Park near Live Oak with camping atop the bluff overlooking two beautiful rivers. The weekend will offer supported 12 mile paddling options on both the Suwannee and Withlacoochee Rivers, a concert featuring Paddle Florida’s favorite musicians, and educational presentations from regional waterway experts.
Suwannee River Wilderness Trail March 19-24, 2027
This trip spans 65 miles of the scenic Suwannee and a portion of the (northern) Withlacoochee, from Madison Blue Spring to Branford. This section features dozens of clear blue springs perfect for swimming and snorkeling. See this Florida Rambler story on Suwannee paddling and camping.
St. Augustine History Paddle April 12-17, 2027 This trip will take advantage of the many historic sites in the St. Augustine area. Base for this historic adventure will be at Anastasia State park, which has four miles of pristine white sand beach plus abundant wildlife. Here’s Florida Rambler on Anastasia State Park.
People who’ve taken these Florida kayak tours before talk about the camaraderie, the convenience and the memorable wilderness experiences.
Past Paddle Florida itineraries: If you’re looking for ideas for paddle trips, consider some of their past trips that are not offered this year: Springtime on the Chipola River in the Panhandle, Fall on the Peace plus Fisheating Creek and Mangroves, Manatees & More, which explores the Sebastian River and Indian River Lagoon.
- Paddle Florida
- Paddle Florida FAQ
- Past trip reviews.
We are three old river kayakers from Missouri.
We often go out for a week or more and can do 25-30 mile day when needed.
We are looking for a unescorted, kayak/tent camp, muti day trip on the Gulf coast, Keys or possibly Spoils.
We keep a clean camp site.
We prefer primitive, pull up and set up tents camping to campgrounds. We are open to suggestions to either.
We are hoping someone with local experience may have some recommendations.
We would like to plan for a Jan. Or Feb. trip.
I would be glad to advise or help anyone wishing to come float Missouri waters.
We are blessed with great rivers.
Many thanks!
Mike
mikenmarystuhr@gmail.com
You’ll find a lot of rivers to consider when you look over our paddle section . If you’re looking for an easy-to-plan a paddle trip in Florida, consider the affordable trips organized by Paddle Florida. Here’s its list for 2024-25: https://www.paddleflorida.org/
Also, from what you write, I think you’d love the Suwannee River and a series of campsites spaced out along its shores. There’s more info here: https://www.floridarambler.com/kayaking-in-florida/suwannee-river-camping/ I hope this helps.