Wacissa River in Florida

by  guest-paddler

A self-supported trip created by guest-paddler

Trip Overview

Lead a trip with almost 20 members of the Bayou Haystackers and a few close friends to the panhandle area of Florida south of Tallahassee. The idea was to do three rivers in three days. We did the Wakulla River the first day... The next day we did the Wacissa River from the put in in the city of Wakulla to the take out at Goose Pasture Road.

Like the day before, water was crystal clear and there was tons of aquatic and bird life. We even got good pictures of a bald eagle sitting on a branch over the river. The water moved slowly the first 5 miles (under 2 mph), a little faster the next four as the river narrowed quite a bit.

We used an outfitter (Wilderness Way) to run the shuttle as it is quite a drive from the take out to the put in. (we did a reverse shuttle). The outfitter was very professional and this is the best way for a large group to handle the shuttle.

This was our longest paddle at 10.7 miles and everyone was ready to get off the water. However, everyone agreed that the river had been georgeous and well worth the trip.

Accommodations:

The group camped out at the Newport Park Campground. It was pretty close (within 30 miles) of every paddle put in and much closer to some. Most were in tents and were allowed to put three tents on each campsite, which defrayed the $20 per nite fee quite a bit.

There is a primitive campground at the end of Goose Pasture Road. Porta potties but no electricity.

Outfitting:

Most were in solo canoes, a few tandem canoes and a few kayaks.

Fees:

No launch fees.

Use of the Wilderness Way outfitter to be shuttle bunnies was $15 per person and well worth it. They were very professional and friendly. Worked hard with us to facilitate the paddle.

Directions:

Put in off County Road 59 in the community of Wakulla, take out at the end of Goose Pasture road at the primitive campground there.

Trip Details

  • Trip Duration: 2-3 Day Trip
  • Sport/Activity: Kayaking
  • Water Type: River/Creek (Up to Class II)

Trip Location