Kayaking & RV Adventures with Anderson's in High Springs - Gainesville

Kayaking & RV Adventures with Anderson's in High Springs

Gainesvilleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Basic fitness needed; suitable for beginners and families comfortable sitting and paddling for a few hours

Overview

Discover High Springs’ spring-fed rivers with Anderson's Outdoor Adventures, where kayak floats, tube rentals, and RV stays bring you close to pristine Florida waters. Learn why their guided trips and rentals make them a standout choice for paddling and camping enthusiasts.

Details

High Springs, Florida, offers a rare slice of natural serenity, where karst springs feed clear rivers that pulse with life. Anderson's Outdoor Adventures stands as a gateway to this terrain, specializing in guided paddling trips, tube and pontoon rentals, and RV accommodations that immerse visitors fully in North Florida’s wild waterways. Their signature "8 Springs in 8 Miles" kayak float takes paddlers on a winding journey through pristine springs, each with its own unique character—from the cool, sapphire waters of Poe Springs to the lush banks of Ginnie and Hart Springs. These trips carve through one of Florida’s most intact freshwater ecosystems, where turtles sunbathe on logs and the occasional manatee may surface, especially in cooler months.

The Bridge to Bridge kayak trip stretches about 10 miles along the Santa Fe River from October to February, offering a peaceful, almost meditative paddle among cypress and water oaks. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides who not only manage logistics seamlessly but bring local lore and ecological insights to each excursion, elevating the experience beyond a simple paddle.

Beyond paddling, Anderson’s provides flexible RV rentals spread across several nearby springs such as Otter and Manatee, enabling adventurers to camp close to some of Florida’s most celebrated freshwater sites. For those looking to host gatherings or spend a day by the water, Poe Springs Pavilion and Clubhouse rentals offer well-equipped bases with easy river access.

More than a rental company, Anderson's Outdoor Adventures operates as a steward of the region's natural assets, pairing accessible, safe adventure with respect for the ecosystem. Their consistent positive reviews highlight attentive service and well-maintained equipment, making them a trusted choice for families, solo paddlers, and groups eager to experience Florida’s freshwater springs at a comfortable, engaging pace.

Adventure Tips

Reserve Your Kayak or RV Early

Spring and fall are busy seasons; booking your gear or pavilion rental well in advance ensures availability.

Wear Water Shoes

Rocky or sandy river bottoms make water shoes important for comfort and protection during entry and exit.

Pack Reusable Water Bottles

Staying hydrated is key; there are limited refill spots along the rivers and springs.

Check Weather Before Departing

Florida weather can shift quickly; be prepared for sun or sudden showers during your trip.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Upper Santa Fe River's remote springs
  • Secluded hiking trails around Manatee Springs

Wildlife

  • Freshwater turtles
  • Seasonal manatee visits

History

These waterways have supported indigenous peoples and settlers for centuries, with historic springs playing a key role in local livelihoods.

Conservation

Anderson's Outdoor Adventures promotes leave-no-trace ethics and partners closely with spring preservation groups to maintain water quality and habitat health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Early morning
Golden hour
Mid-afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Poe Springs pavilion
  • Bridge to Bridge river segments
  • Ginnie Springs snorkeling spots

What to Photograph

Clear spring waters
Native wildlife
Sunlight filtering through cypress

Recommended Gear

Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Essential

Required safety equipment for all water activities.

Water Shoes

Essential

Protect feet from sharp rocks and slippery surfaces on spring entries and exits.

Sun Protection

Essential

Hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and sunscreen guard against strong Florida sun.

spring|summer|fall specific

Light Rain Jacket

Keeps you dry during unexpected showers common in shoulder seasons.

spring|fall specific