🛶🌳 Paddling Paradise: Exploring O’Leno State Park & Florida’s Crystal-Clear Spring-Fed Rivers 💧🌞

March 22, 2024

If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the best of Florida’s natural beauty, then exploring its state parks and spring-fed rivers should be at the top of your list. We recently dove into some of North Florida’s most breathtaking outdoor gems—O’Leno State Park, the Santa Fe River, and the Ichetucknee River—and we’re excited to bring you along for the ride.

🛤️ From Suwannee to O’Leno: The Scenic Route Through North Florida 🌲

Before arriving at O’Leno, we’d already been swept away by the magic of the Suwannee River—paddling through dark tannin waters, discovering hidden springs, and exploring the quiet Gulf coastline. But O’Leno promised something different: history, trails, and the unique hydrology of Florida’s vanishing rivers.

Nestled just outside High Springs, O’Leno State Park is one of Florida’s oldest, offering a blend of rich conservation history and endless outdoor activities.

🥪🍓 Farm Stand Surprise: Strawberries & Southern Charm

On our way, a detour brought us to The Farm Stand, a delightful roadside stop that checked all the boxes:✔️ Fresh food✔️ Clean restrooms✔️ Easy RV parking✔️ And the sweetest strawberries ever (if you're there during the right season!)

These are the kind of unexpected discoveries that make road-tripping so rewarding.

🚲📜 Biking Through History at O’Leno State Park

Rolling into O’Leno felt like stepping back in time. Built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the park has stories etched into every pine beam and winding trail.

O’Leno also holds the ghostly memory of the old town of Keno (later renamed “Leno”). When the railroad rerouted in the 1890s, the town faded, earning its new name—“Old Leno”, or O’Leno.

We opted to explore by bike, gliding through quiet forests and over scenic bridges—until the Hubs’ e-bike battery decided to quit early. 😅 But the trails, peaceful scenery, and bird calls more than made up for the detour.

🌊🚣‍♀️ Paddling the Santa Fe River: Sinks, Springs & Serene Beauty

The Santa Fe River, which flows through O’Leno, is one of Florida’s most unique waterways. It’s where tannin-stained river water meets crystal-clear spring water, creating mesmerizing contrasts along its route.

We arranged a shuttle service with a local outfitter in Fort White who welcomed us like family. Armed with maps and local advice (and an invite for food & live music later), we hit the river.

One unforgettable moment? River Sink Trail—where the Santa Fe vanishes underground into a limestone sinkhole, only to reappear three miles later at River Rise Preserve State Park. It’s Florida geology at its finest.

☀️🛍️ Rest & Refuel in High Springs: Small-Town Magic

After a full day paddling, we headed into High Springs, a lovely small town brimming with character. With great local eats, walkable streets, and a welcoming vibe, it was the perfect pit stop.

Meanwhile, the Hubs gave his e-bike one last chance—spoiler alert: the battery gave up again. 😄 Still, we enjoyed the ride while it lasted!

💎🛶 Kayaking the Ichetucknee River: Florida’s Clearest Waters

Next up was a Florida favorite: the Ichetucknee River—known for its crystal-clear spring water and gentle flow. Unlike the Suwannee and Santa Fe, this river looks like liquid glass.

We rented kayaks at Ichetucknee Springs State Park, using their shuttle from the south entrance ($12.50 per person + $12.50 per kayak). The six-mile float took us through an otherworldly landscape of clear water, lush canopy, and fish visible below the surface.

Tubing is allowed in the lower section, but the upper river is protected for conservation. We appreciated the effort to keep this natural treasure pristine.

🚣‍♀️🎣 Tandem Trouble & A Lesson Learned: Solo Kayaks for the Win

This trip finally confirmed something we suspected: tandem kayaking isn’t our strong suit. The coordination, the disagreements, the zig-zag path downriver...

So from now on? Solo kayaks for us! They’re more peaceful, more forgiving, and way better for fishing and personal pacing. Plus, I learned I’m pretty darn good on my own!

📚 Final Thoughts: Forests, Forgotten Towns & Flowing Springs

Our time at O’Leno State Park, and paddling the Santa Fe and Ichetucknee Rivers, was unforgettable. From vanishing rivers and CCC history to clear springs and quiet forest trails, this part of Florida proved that beauty lies in the slow, simple, and unexpected.

If you’re dreaming of Florida adventures without the crowds, this area is calling. Whether you're a nature-lover, a history buff, or a paddler at heart, you’ll find something to love here.

📅 What’s Next?

We’re off to explore one of Florida’s most unique state parks next—expect more wild trails, rare ecosystems, and moments that make you stop and stare. Subscribe or follow along—we’d love to have you with us on the next leg of the journey.

🧭 Pro Tips for Planning Your Trip:

✔️ Book your kayak shuttles in advance, especially during weekends and spring break.

✔️ Solo kayaks = less stress, especially for couples 😉

✔️ Support local outfitters and eateries—they’re part of the adventure!

✔️ Bring binoculars or a waterproof phone case for river wildlife.

✔️ Don’t skip the visitor centers—you’ll always learn something new.

💬 Been to O’Leno or High Springs? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your favorite trails, secret stops, or river tips!

🌊 Until next time—may your kayak float straight and your springs stay cold.