Clear Kayak Adventure with Get Up and Go Kayaking in Apopka - Orlando

Clear Kayak Adventure with Get Up and Go Kayaking in Apopka

Orlandoeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for beginners and intermediate paddlers; must be able to sit and paddle for several hours comfortably.

Overview

Paddle through the crystal-clear waters of Apopka’s Rock Springs with Get Up and Go Kayaking for a vivid, immersive experience that highlights Florida’s hidden freshwater beauty.

Details

In the heart of central Florida’s Lake County lies Apopka, a gateway to subtle but striking freshwater landscapes. Here, Get Up and Go Kayaking offers the Rock Springs Clear Kayak Tour, an experience defined by Florida’s rare, crystal-clear spring waters. This region’s karst geology feeds pristine waterways that beg to be traversed silently under the sun, with underwater visibility that brings the aquatic world to life beneath your kayak.

The Rock Springs Run State Reserve is the highlight—an ecological treasure coursing through hardwood forests, swamps, and rolling sandhills. On this journey, paddlers move across shimmering waters as colorful fish dart below and turtles lounge on sunlit logs. Cypress knees emerge like natural sculptures at the shoreline, while wading birds such as the great blue heron and anhinga patrol shallow water near reed beds. This immersive interaction with Florida’s freshwater ecosystems offers a contrast to the usual coastal paddling scene.

Get Up and Go Kayaking stands out in the local adventure landscape by offering clear kayak tours that spotlight environmental clarity and calm. Their guided trips balance ease of access with an intimate connection to nature, making it ideal for novices and seasoned paddlers alike. The operators know this stretch of water well and provide insights into the natural history and conservation efforts around Florida’s springs—still susceptible to environmental pressures.

This tour offers more than a paddle. It is a chance to witness Florida beyond the theme parks—where quiet water currents reveal the state’s wild roots. For travelers seeking a hands-on way to engage with Apopka’s natural landscape, Get Up and Go Kayaking creates a memorable blend of education, recreation, and serene beauty.

Adventure Tips

Wear quick-dry clothing

Expect to get wet; lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes help stay comfortable throughout the trip.

Use reef-safe sunscreen

Protect your skin and the delicate freshwater ecosystem by applying environmentally friendly sunscreen before launch.

Bring a waterproof phone case

Keep your electronics safe while capturing the underwater clarity and wildlife during the tour.

Be prepared for afternoon mosquitoes

Late day insects can increase; packing insect repellent will enhance comfort on shore breaks or rest stops.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Quiet cypress swamp tributaries off the main run
  • Small spring vents bubbling along the shoreline

Wildlife

  • Florida softshell turtle
  • Anhinga

History

Rock Springs Run has long supported indigenous communities and early settlers for its abundant freshwater source.

Conservation

Water quality is carefully monitored due to sensitivity of the spring ecosystem; participants are encouraged to minimize environmental impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Early morning
Late afternoon
Golden hour

Best Viewpoints

  • Near natural spring vents
  • Along the cypress-lined riverbanks
  • Open stretches of clear water

What to Photograph

Underwater fish and plant life
Wading birds on the water’s edge
Reflections of sky and forest on the clear water

Recommended Gear

Personal flotation device (PFD)

Essential

Required safety gear for all kayakers, ensures buoyancy and security on water.

Water shoes

Essential

Protect your feet when launching or if you step into shallow areas along the shore.

summer specific

Wide-brimmed hat

Shields your face and neck from strong Florida sun during peak daylight hours.

summer specific

Dry bag

Essential

Keeps essentials like phones, snacks, and cameras dry while on the water.