Chipola River, FL

This 4.5-mile paddling trail from Christoff Landing downstream to the Florida Caverns State Park is suitable for beginning to intermediate paddlers, depending on water levels and amount of downed trees. Portages may be necessary, especially after storm events. From Christoff Landing it may be possible to paddle about 1.5 miles upstream, to visit the historic Bellamy Bridge, site of colorful local ghost legends. The Bellamy Bridge Heritage Trail is about a half mile walk and can be accessed from the parking area on CR 162. Accessing the river at SR 162 bridge is not recommended as the dirt road is rough and rainy conditions may require carrying boats and gear through thick muck.

The trail ends at a boat ramp near a small bridge on Blue Hole Drive inside Florida Caverns State Park. A short distance downstream of the boat ramp the river disappears into a submerged cave, re-emerging a quarter of a mile later. As a result, paddling is not allowed past the bridge. The portion of the river that continues downstream follows a man-made cut that was made decades ago in order to allow logs to be floated downstream. This feature has since become clogged with downed trees and is now preserved as wildlife habitat. It is possible to rent canoes from the state park office at the entrance and paddle upstream and back. Be sure to visit Baltzell Springs, about 1.2 miles upstream from the park boat ramp on the east side of the river. Please avoid trespassing on private lands around the springs.

Note: Due to impacts from Hurricane Michael, the paddling trail may be impeded by numerous snags and certain features at Florida Caverns State Park may not be available.

Source: Florida Department of Evnironmental Protection

For More Information Visit:

Florida's Designated Paddling Trails - Florida DEP

Upper Chipola River Paddling Guide (PDF)- Florida DEP