Private Weeki Wachee Kayak & Canoe Launch
Launch Your Own Vessel for a Self-Paced Weeki Wachee River Paddle
Includes
Launch ramp, courtesy carts
Highlights
Bring your own kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard for a self-paced paddle down the Weeki Wachee River. Launch upstream and plan your preferred downstream takeout.
- Launch from the upstream ramp for a downriver paddle
- Paddle at your own pace before the kayaking gate closes
- Take out at the 2.8-mile retrieval point or continue to a public downstream ramp
- Arrange your return transportation if you do not use the return shuttle
What's Included
- Upstream launch-ramp access
- Courtesy boat carts, subject to availability
Important details
- Arrive 15–30 minutes before your scheduled reservation
- Ages 18+ required to make the reservation; participants 18 and under require adult accompaniment
- Ages 12+ required to operate a vessel solo
- Return shuttle service from the 2.8-mile takeout costs an additional $5 per person and is not included in the listed price; last pickup is at 2 PM
- Tax applies and is not included in the listed price
- Arrange your own return transportation if not using the shuttle; downstream public-ramp fees may apply and are not included in the listed price
- Return to the parking area before the 4:30 PM gate closure or your vehicle may be locked in; the kayaking gate closes at 5 PM
- Only kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards may launch; motorboats, jon boats, rafts, and tubes are prohibited
- Inflatable kayaks must be USCG-certified and have prior staff authorization
- State-required life jackets and a sound-producing device are required; overloaded vessels cannot launch
- Disposable items, alcohol, drugs, smoking, and pets are prohibited; only legal service animals are allowed
- Use reusable food and drink containers; bags and coolers are checked, and coolers cannot exceed 10 inches by 10 inches by 10 inches
- Swimming or exiting your vessel is prohibited on State Park property
Cancellation Policy
Cancel at least 24 hours before your reservation for a full refund. Arrivals more than 15 minutes late and no-shows are cancelled without a refund.
FAQs
Complete a Risk Acknowledgment for every participant before launching.
No. Returning to the launch ramp by water is not permitted. Personal vehicles cannot access the retrieval dock, and you need a valid shuttle wristband to take out your vessel there.
If you join a group with rental vessels, you will separate from them when they reach the retrieval docks at the 2.8-mile takeout.
Meeting details
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park