Rock Springs Run Full-River Kayak Adventure

Guided Wild & Scenic River Eco Kayak Tour – Rock Springs Run, Apopka, FL

This is Rock Springs Run in its entirety. The Eco River Adventure Shuttle Run is a 5-hour guided kayak tour covering the full 8.5 miles / 13.7 km of this federally designated Wild and Scenic River — from the crystal-clear springhead all the way downstream to Wekiva Island. It's the most comprehensive way to experience everything this remarkable river has to offer, and one of the most memorable full-day paddling adventures in Central Florida.

The tour begins with a golf cart ride to the top of the run, where you'll enter the crystal-clear spring water just moments from the springhead. From there, it's an entirely downstream float — over one mile of the world-famous Emerald Cut with its brilliant emerald water and jungle-like canopy, transitioning into the quieter, more tannic Wild Florida stretch of the river where the real wilderness begins. Rock Springs Run has been featured in National Geographic documentaries on Florida's spring systems and the Florida Black Bear — the largest colony of black bears in one area is found right here along this run.

As the river winds deeper into Wild Florida, the ever-changing landscape — from open grassy banks to dense subtropical hammock — keeps every bend interesting. Wildlife encounters are abundant and close: alligators, river otters, white-tailed deer, turtles, black bears, and an array of birds including great egrets, herons, and bald eagles are all commonly spotted. Your guide will lead you through the full journey, stopping at favorite swimming spots and sharing the natural and cultural history of this ancient river corridor, including the passageways once used by the Timucuan Indians.

The tour concludes at Wekiva Island, where your shuttle returns you to King's Landing. If time allows, guests are welcome to unwind at The Tooting Otter craft beer and wine bar, grab a bite at the Without A Paddle Café, or relax on the boardwalk overlooking the river before heading back.

This is an intermediate-level paddling activity. Due to the length and duration of the tour — up to 5 hours on the water — participants must be in good physical condition, comfortable with extended paddling, and at ease with Florida wildlife and nature.

Duration

1. 5 hours on the water
   
2. Approximately 8.5 miles / 13.7 km total distance — entirely downstream
   
3. Allow extra time for check-in, pre-launch instruction, and the golf cart ride to the top of the run
   

Location / Where to Meet

King's Landing 5722 Baptist Camp Road, Apopka, FL 32712

Please plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to your tour start time! It is important we start on time to experience the entire run.

King's Landing is located approximately 30 minutes from downtown Orlando and less than 5 minutes from the more popular Kelly Park Rock Springs entrance.

Parking is available along the road outside the property (free street parking). Locker rentals are available on-site to secure personal belongings, and luggage storage is available at the office for a fee. Restrooms are on-site. Speakers are not permitted on any vessel.

Ages & Requirements

1. Minimum age: 13 years of age. This tour is not suitable for younger children.
   
2. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult on the water.
   
3. Intermediate paddling experience is required — this is not a beginner tour.
   
4. Participants must be confident swimmers and fully comfortable in the water and with Florida wildlife.
   
5. Must be fully mobile and in good physical condition — you will be on the water for up to 5 hours.
   
6. Single and double kayaks are available for this tour.
   

What's Included

1. Experienced tour guide
   
2. Golf cart ride through the property to the private launch at the top of the run
   
3. Kayak and all safety equipment (PFD, paddle)
   
4. Pre-launch instruction
   
5. Water entry and exit assistance
   
6. Shuttle return from Wekiva Island back to King's Landing
   
7. Photo package
   

Not Included

1. Gratuity — never expected, but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10–25% to your guide.
   
2. Lockers for personal belongings (available on-site for a rental fee)
   
3. Water, snacks and food — given the 5-hour duration, bringing plenty of both is strongly recommended
   
4. Transportation to/from King's Landing
   

What to Bring / Wear

1. Swimsuit & Towel — you will get wet!
   
2. Water Shoes or Sandals with Straps — secure footwear recommended
   
3. Reef-Safe Sunscreen — please avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens; choose non-nano mineral formulas
   
4. Insect Repellent (DEET-Free)
   
5. Reusable Water Bottle & Snacks — pack more than you think you need for a 5-hour paddle
   
6. Extra Layers of Clothing — mornings on the water can be cool, especially in winter months
   
7. Dry Bag or Dry Box — to protect your phone, camera, and valuables
   
8. Waterproof Camera — the company is not responsible for any damaged or lost items
   
9. Please remove any jewelry, watches, or anything you don't want to lose or get damaged by water.
   

Eco River Adventure Shuttle Run Tour