Rainbow River in Florida

Trip Overview

Rainbow River has its beginning at Rainbow Springs. The river is beautiful, but houses have almost completely taken over the west side of the river. No trespassing signs are posted everywhere and boat traffic is high. I originally tubed this river during the winter and nearly froze as it took a full four hours to complete the trip and there was no take out points along the way. The Kayak trip was a completely different trip. I started at KP Hole, a county park, after renting a kayak from Dragonfly Watersports in Dunellon. They put me in at KP Hole and picked me up at the bridge near their shop. I paddled from KP Hole to the head spring at Rainbow Springs State Park and then paddled back to the takeout point. It was an easy paddle, but the 5th of July was a busy time with tubers, boats and kayaks/canoes all over the river. Even with the high traffic this is a beautiful trip.

Accommodations:

Rainbow Springs State Park has a campground separate from the Rainbow Springs. (Phone Number (1-352-489-8503). During peak season and holidays it is hard to get a campsite if you have not pre booked your site. A number of motels are available in Dunnellon.

Fees:

Launch fees are to be paid at KP Hole. No camping along the river and no materials that can be thrown away can be taken with you on the river as fines will be assessed if you are caught. (Strictly enforced)

Directions:

From Dunnellon go north on US-41 and turn east on 99th Place, (look for signs.)

Resources:

Florida's Fabulous Canoe and Kayak Trail Guide.