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Paddling in Central Florida, Eco-Tourism Destination

Central Florida is a mecca for eco-tourism in Florida, providing a natural alternative to the theme parks. Paddling opportunities span east from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico on the west. To the east, the Space Coast is defined by the Indian River Lagoon and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The central area is dominated by the St. John's River, with the Orlando area featuring several outstanding spring runs. To the west, the Nature Coast is more remote with salt marsh, tree islands and winding tidal creeks, while around and south of Tampa Bay are scenic rivers and mangrove creeks.

Central Florida Links and Sample Photos (hover over images to enlarge)
Central (Orlando)
Blue Spring/ St. John's River		Dora Canal		Econlockhatchee River
A designated manatee refuge		Short but scenic		One of the last unspoiled rivers in Central Florida
Lake Norris / Blackwater Creek		Shingle Creek		Wekiva River/ Rock Springs Run
Paddle the Blackwater Creek trail to Lake Norris, then enjoy the cypress forest		A tranquil get-away in the middle of the Disney tourist corridor		A combined 27-mile paddle
East (Space Coast)
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge		Shipyard Island		Spruce Creek
Unparalleled views of unspoiled natural habitat and wildlife		At Canaveral National Seashore, south of New Smyrna Beach		Between Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach
West (Nature Coast)
Chassahowitzka River		Homosassa River		Kings Bay (Crystal River)
Spring-fed pristine river, the wildlife refuge is only accessible by water		Paddling with manatees		Popular with manatees and abounding with birds
Rainbow River		Weeki Wachee River		Withlacoochee River
The entire river is a Registered National Landmark		Fed by Weeki Wachee Spring, home of the Weeki Wachee Mermaids		One of a few rivers flowing north, originating in the Green Swamp
West (Tampa Bay)
Alafia River		Little Manatee River and Cockroach Bay		Weedon Island
The Spanish moss overhanging the river was a notable feature		From forest to bay, paddling through unspoiled Florida		Paddling through mangrove near St. Petersburg

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Paddling in Florida - Kayak, Canoe
Central Florida