Shingle Creek (Kissimmee) in Florida

Trip Overview

Paddled up stream (north) until too many blockages to continue; about hour and a half round trip. Nice cypress / mostly shaded trip. Heading south looks like good opportunity to dead-head for a possible 5-7 mile one way trip. Will try that next time.

If even longer is desired, DeLorme maps show a launch area at north end of Lake Tohopekaliga somewhere a few blocks south of Osceola Hospital.

Accommodations:

There is Harbor Oaks Marina & Campsites downstream (3605 Marsh Rd; no answer by phone, may not even be in business anymore?)

Fees:

No fee at put in, unless renting/launching from airboat business on south side of 192 (4266 W Vine St)

Directions:

Near marker 15 on 192; east of Bass Rd; North side of 192 is a Roadhouse Restaurant (looks closed so it could be different when you go); dirt path enters on west side behind the restaurant. Path was drivable w/ 4-wheel drive; room to park/unload at waters edge.

Launches:

Officer on foot arrived as we were leaving, did not indicate any problem w/ having launched there - was more concerned w/ tourists that don't know any better in getting too close to gators (saw none); air boats started their adventures after 10 am.

Resources:

DeLorme Florida Atlas & Gazetteer; Google Maps.