THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Float 11.5 miles of the Econ River from the Little Big Econ State Forest headquarters at 2000 Snow Hill Rd, Chuluota. This two-day, intermediate paddle includes equipment and a shuttle back—ideal for paddlers who want a compact overnight river escape close to Oviedo.
Float 11.5 miles of the Econ River from the Little Big Econ State Forest headquarters at 2000 Snow Hill Rd, Chuluota. This two-day, intermediate paddle includes equipment and a shuttle back—ideal for paddlers who want a compact overnight river escape close to Oviedo.
Book with Adventures in Florida
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Adventures in Florida · Chuluota, Florida
Little Big Econ State Forest sits just east of Oviedo in central Florida, and this 2 Day Paddle follows 11.5 miles of the Econ River from the forestry headquarters at 2000 Snow Hill Rd. Chuluota, FL. The trip launches from a boardwalk behind the Forestry Office: a short, 660-foot walk from the pavilion parking area drops you onto a slow, tannin-stained river flanked by cypress swamps, oak hammocks, and low sandhills. Over two days you’ll find a rhythm of paddling and shore exploration, camping options nearby, and easy logistics — all equipment and a shuttle back to your vehicle are included.
The river itself is the star: dark, clear water that mirrors bald cypress knees and Spanish moss, punctuated by occasional sandbars and oxbow bends where turtles lounge and river otters hunt. This intermediate trip covers varied water: placid stretches for steady mileage, narrow winding sections that require attention to current and low-hanging limbs, and shallow areas where careful boat handling keeps you moving. Nights are quiet; gates close at sunset so plan your shore breaks and overnight parking at the pavilion accordingly.
What makes this option special is how accessible it feels. The launch behind the Forestry Office removes long portages and gives direct access to a river corridor that feels remote despite being minutes from Oviedo and Chuluota. The landscape—sandhill scrub, live oak hammocks, and floodplain forest—offers an intimate look at central Florida’s freshwater ecosystems without the crowds of larger parks.
Practical details are pared down: meet at 2000 Snow Hill Rd, Chuluota, where the pavilion parking and boardwalk make loading gear straightforward. Overnight parking is allowed; expect gates to close at sunset. All paddling equipment is provided, and a shuttle to return you to your vehicle is included, so you can focus on navigation and wildlife watching. This paddle rewards steady, confident paddlers who want a two-day escape with comfortable logistics.
For photographers and wildlife watchers, the river glows in early morning and late afternoon light; look for wading birds, otters, and turtles along quiet bends. Respect the forest rules: pack out what you pack in, avoid disturbing nests or dens, and follow gate times. Whether you’re chasing solitude, birdlife, or a focused paddling challenge, this Little Big Econ paddle delivers a compact, well-run river trip that showcases a less-visited side of Florida’s freshwater network.
Pack insect repellent and layered clothing — mornings can be cool and damp while afternoons heat quickly — and bring a small first-aid kit. If you have time, extend your stay to explore nearby trails and small-town cafés in Chuluota or Oviedo after your paddle. The straightforward launch, included shuttle, and quiet river make this an ideal multi-day introduction to Florida paddling, and memories.
moderate.
48 hours.
Moderate fitness: ability to paddle several hours across two days and carry or manage gear across the short boardwalk
Meet at 2000 Snow Hill Rd. Chuluota, FL 32766 at the pavilion parking area; the boardwalk behind the Forestry Office leads to the canoe launch.
Yes—overnight parking is allowed at the forestry pavilion, but gates close at sunset so plan your timing accordingly.
All paddling equipment is included and a shuttle back to your vehicle is provided.
This is rated intermediate: basic paddling competency and comfort managing a canoe/kayak in narrow or shallow river sections are required.
The Forestry Office area has basic facilities at the trailhead; expect limited services once on the river.
Shore stops and dispersed camping near designated areas are common; follow forest rules, pack out waste, and avoid nests or sensitive habitats.
The river’s local name, Econ, is a short form of Econlockhatchee, the longer historic name used for this river corridor.
Follow Leave No Trace: pack out trash, avoid disturbing cypress knees and nesting birds, and respect gate hours to reduce human impact.
Adventures in Florida, based in Buffalo City, Wisconsin, offers guided paddling trips, instructional classes, rentals, and multi‑day expeditions that showcase Florida’s waterways. Their trip lineup includes day paddles like the Wekiva River Kayak Tour; skills programs such as ABC Kayaking: FUNdamentals and the Wet Exits, Recovery, and Rescue Class; shuttle‑supported Econlockhatchee River rentals and a Private Econlockhatchee River ztour; long backcountry journeys down America’s first Wild and Scenic river, the Buffalo; wilderness camping on Lake Fontana and the Great Smoky Mountains; and a seasonal Okefenokee Lodge departure. Safety and skill development are emphasized across offerings. The Wet Exits, Recovery, and Rescue Class explicitly features certified instructors guiding wet exits, recovery, and rescue techniques. ABC Kayaking teaches paddling techniques, safety tips, and kayaking etiquette, with gear available when requested. Several trips include shuttle service to launch points and a riverside picnic or lodge meals, improving logistics and comfort. Wildlife and landscape interpretation are central to many itineraries. The Wekiva River tour highlights opportunities to see alligators, rare black bears, and manatees, while the Buffalo river journey includes backcountry camping, caves, and waterfalls. Econlockhatchee rentals shuttle guests to the Little Big Econ Canoe Launch for self‑guided exploration. Information about schedules, availability, and gear is provided with each listing. Travelers can select day trips, skill classes, rentals, private tours, or multi‑day lodge and camping expeditions based on preference and ability. Booking details, pricing, and trip requirements are listed per tour so paddlers can prepare appropriately before arrival and check equipment needs in advance.
Book with Adventures in Florida