Kayaking, canoeing + paddle boarding are great ways to explore the Lakeland area. These water sports also offer both physical and mental health benefits that extend far beyond a day on the water.
But before we dive in, let’s get a lay of the land (er, water). Check out these unique facts about our region:
- With 12,106 square miles of water, Florida ranks third in the US for water area.
- The National Forests in Florida have over 600 lakes and rivers.
- Florida has the second largest freshwater lake wholly contained within the United States
Next, we should talk about paddling safety, so you don’t capsize:
- Always wear a PFD, or personal flotation device.
- Start small. Water, especially flowing water, can be intimidating. First-timers should opt for a small lake, pond, or city canal. You don’t want to get in over your head.
- Consider a guided adventure from Get Up and Go Kayaking before heading out on your own.
- For a fully detailed list of dos + don’ts, check out this paddling safety guide.
And finally, here are a few options for getting your feet wet — all within two hours of Lakeland:
- Lake Crago Outdoor Recreation Complex, 525 Lake Crago Dr. | This is the city’s only public kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboard facility. You can also bring your pup to the nearby Lake Crago Dog Park.
- Colt Creek State Park, 16000 State Rd. 471 | The ranger station at this state park in north Lakeland offers canoe and kayak rentals.
- Chain of Lakes, Winter Haven | Explore 22 of the 50 lakes around Winter Haven with kayak + canoe rentals from Off the Chain Kayaks or a paddleboard tour from Paddleboard Winter Haven.
- Edward Medard Conservation Park, 6140 Turkey Creek Rd., Plant City | Stop by the park’s entry station to rent canoes + kayaks and enjoy this 700-acre reservoir.
- Lake Kissimmee State Park, 14248 Camp Mack Rd., Lake Wales | Tour the 10-mile Buster Island Paddling Trail and keep an eye out for birds, alligators, and other wildlife.
- Wekiwa Springs State Park, 1800 Wekiwa Cir., Apopka | Rent a canoe or kayak from the park, or go on a guided tour with Wekiva Outfitters. Either way, you can’t go wrong in these emerald waters.
- Silver Springs State Park, 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs | Enjoy one of America’s largest springs via canoe, paddleboard, kayak, or even a glass bottom boat.
