Paddle the Ichetucknee River by moonlight on a Ranger-led trip that reveals Florida’s river in a new light. Choose kayak or canoe for a 2-hour journey beneath the stars.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal paddling experience needed as instruction and guidance are provided.
Wildlife
History
The Ichetucknee River area has long been valued by Indigenous peoples and was designated a State Park in 1970 to protect its crystal-clear springs.
Conservation
Strict group limits and gear restrictions reduce human impact and protect fragile aquatic plants and wildlife unique to this karst spring ecosystem.
Ichetucknee Springs
Paddle the Ichetucknee River by moonlight on a Ranger-led trip that reveals Florida’s river in a new light. Choose kayak or canoe for a 2-hour journey beneath the stars.
Ichetucknee Springs, located in Cape Canaveral, Florida, is a park-based outfitter and natural attraction offering guided and rental paddling experiences on the Ichetucknee River. The site provides a range of water activities including stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, and river tubing that let visitors experience crystal-clear springs, river channels, and scenic riparian corridors. As the only rental facility operating within the park, Ichetucknee Springs equips guests with boats, tubes, safety gear, and tram information for easy shuttles between launch and take-out points. Trip options accommodate short leisure floats, multi-mile river paddles for experienced paddlers, and specialty guided events such as moonlit and ranger-led sunset paddles that highlight nocturnal wildlife and quiet river atmosphere.
Ichetucknee Springs emphasizes guest safety and environmental stewardship through regulated rentals, staffed launch points, and collaboration with park rangers to maintain natural resources and visitor compliance. Families, couples, and small groups find accessible paddle options at the Midpoint Launch and Dampier’s Landing, as well as extended routes that traverse the Ichetucknee and Santa Fe rivers to distant take-outs. The variety of craft — from single and tandem kayaks to canoes and stand-up paddleboards — supports different skill levels and trip preferences. With all-day wristband options for tubing, tram service between key points, and experienced staff familiar with local currents and park procedures, Ichetucknee Springs delivers an organized, memorable river experience rooted in the unique spring-fed environment of the Ichetucknee River. Reservations and onsite staffing vary seasonally; visitors should check availability and park rules before arrival for safe enjoyment.
Location
Cape Canaveral, FL
Access to the Ichetucknee River
Tours Offered
7 Trips
Paddles, tubing, guided events
Rental Types
SUP, Kayak, Canoe, Tube
Multiple craft available
Guided Nights
Moonlit & Sunset
Ranger-led evening paddles
Book kayaks, paddleboards, or tubing wristbands now — availability varies seasonally and fills quickly.
Wear Water-Resistant Layers
Evenings can be cool on the water, so dress in quick-drying, warm layers to stay comfortable during your paddle.
Bring a Headlamp or Waterproof Flashlight
For after-trip safety and shuttle rides, a hands-free light source is handy though night paddling is guided and gear includes lighting.
Arrive Early for Orientation
Plan to arrive ahead of your departure to get fitted for your kayak or canoe and attend the safety briefing by Rangers.
Leave Personal Watercraft at Home
To protect the delicate river ecosystem and maintain organized group paddling, personal kayaks and canoes are not permitted.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against cool winds and possible light rain during night paddling.
fall
Dry Bag
Keeps personal items dry from splashes or unexpected weather.
Closed-Toe Water Shoes
Protect your feet while launching and paddling in and out of the water.
summer
Insect Repellent
Helps prevent mosquito bites, especially important during warmer months.
spring