Coldwater Creek in Florida - Weekend Trip Report

Trip Overview

Our group came down for our annual Fall paddle trip. We were going to paddle the Blackwater River but the water level was low so we decided on Coldwater Creek instead. There were seven of us in various boats from solo canoes to full touring kayaks. The first day we launched from Hwy. 4 and took out at Springhill rd. The GPS said this was 10.6 miles. The sandbars around every curve made stretching ones legs very easy. The water was very clear so every obstacle was visible. Once we passed the Adventures Unlimited Launch there were less obstructions in the water. The Fall foliage made for a pretty trip.

The second day we launched at Springhill rd. and took out at Hwy 191 bridge. The weather was great for a Fall paddle. Temperature topped out in the low 70's. The Trainer planes at Whiting Field were doing touch and go's all day as we paddled this section. If you were looking for a wilderness experience this would have spoiled it. I thought it was cool to see them flying wing tip to wing tip. We had a Coyote come out on a sandbar then disappear back into the woods once it saw us. We also came across one of the largest Alligator Snapping turtles I have ever seen in the wild.

We stayed at Blackwater River State Park. It's like all of the Florida State Parks that I have stayed at in the past. Clean, quite and affordable w/ friendly staff. We would have stayed longer but a storm run us off.

Fees:

Adventures Unlimited and Bob's Canoe Rental have boats available.

Blackwater River State Park, $20+tax per night

Directions:

191 North from Milton, Fl to Coldwater Creek. North to Springhill Rd, turn Left to Creek. Continue West on Springhill rd. it becomes Lewis Rd. Turn Left @ 87 sigh. Turn North on 87, turn Right on Hwy. 4 continue to Coldwater bridge.

Resources:

Canoe Florida, Blackwater River State Forest map