Rock Springs Run Kayak, Canoe, & Paddleboard Rentals

The Day Paddle is a self-guided 4-hour rental on Rock Springs Run. You rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, launch from King's Landing, and explore the river at your own pace. The rental window is 4 hours and includes all safety equipment. No guide is provided — you go where you want, stop when you want, and return to the launch when you're ready.

Both sides are worth exploring, and most guests do both within the 4-hour window. The Emerald Cut (right, upstream) is the most visually stunning stretch — crystal-clear water, emerald color, and a canopy of overhanging jungle. The Wild Florida side (left, downstream) is calmer, more tannic, and offers the best wildlife watching. If you only have time for one, the Emerald Cut is the classic choice for first-timers.

Yes — most guests cover both the Emerald Cut and the Wild Florida side in 3–3.5 hours, leaving time to stop, swim, and relax. The 4-hour rental window is designed with this in mind.

Single and double kayaks are the most popular options and suit most paddlers. The canoe is a great choice for groups of up to 3, or for guests who want a more stable, relaxed platform. The paddleboard offers a different perspective on the water and is popular with experienced stand-up paddlers — it's an inflatable Bote 11'6" model. If you're unsure, a kayak is the easiest starting point for most people.

A late fee of $50 per vessel per hour will be assessed automatically at check-out. All vessels must return to the launch no later than 4:30pm. The park closes at 5pm.

Yes — the Day Paddle is a great option for first-time kayakers and paddlers. The Emerald Cut's gentle current makes the upstream paddle manageable, and the downstream return is a relaxed drift. The Wild Florida side is even easier, as the initial paddle is downstream with the current. There are no rapids, no strong currents, and no technical paddling required.

Yes — children ages 2 and older are welcome. Children 12 and under may ride on a paddleboard with an adult, as long as the combined weight doesn't exceed 300 lbs (136 kg). For younger or smaller children, a double kayak or canoe with a parent is the most comfortable option.

During the rainy season in August and September, rising water levels can cause the Emerald Cut to turn a tannic, tea-brown color. This is a natural and temporary process. Wildlife viewing remains excellent regardless of water color. If you have concerns, reach out to the team before your booking date.

The Day Paddle is entirely self-guided — there is no guide, no set route, and no fixed schedule beyond the 4-hour rental window. You explore at your own pace and decide when and where to stop. The guided tours (Emerald Cut Kayak Adventure, VIP Wild Florida, and others) include an experienced guide who leads the group, provides local knowledge, points out wildlife, and shows you the best swimming spots. If it's your first time on the river or you'd like a richer experience, a guided tour is worth considering.

Rock Springs Run is one of only two designated Wild and Scenic Rivers in Florida, flowing through the heart of the Wekiva River Basin. It is spring-fed, which means the water maintains a constant, crystal-clear quality year-round at a refreshing temperature. The Emerald Cut section is particularly famous for its brilliant green water, overhanging jungle-like canopy, and sandy riverbed. It is a genuine natural oasis only 30 minutes from Orlando.

Rock Springs Run is rich with Florida wildlife. Commonly spotted animals include river otters, turtles, white-tailed deer, alligators, black bears, and a wide variety of bird species including great egrets, herons, and bald eagles. The spring-fed water also supports diverse fish species visible through the clear water. The river corridor is home to the largest colony of Florida Black Bear in one area and has been featured in National Geographic documentaries.

No — for safety reasons, dogs and all other pets are not permitted at King's Landing. Service animals are permitted but must remain under the handler's control at all times.

Yes, coolers are welcome. However, no glass, no Styrofoam, and no alcohol are permitted. All coolers will be checked before launching.

Speakers are not allowed on any vessel launching from King's Landing. This policy is in place to preserve the natural experience for all guests on the water.

Free street parking is available along the road outside the property. Locker rentals and luggage storage are also available on-site for a fee.

Tours run rain or shine in most conditions. Tours will only be canceled by a staff member in the event of severe weather or a safety concern. In that case, a full refund is provided. Light rain, overcast skies, or cool temperatures are not grounds for cancellation. If you have concerns about weather on your booking date, contact the team in advance.

King's Landing has restrooms, locker rentals, luggage storage at the office, and a small general store on-site. At the end of this tour, guests arrive at Wekiva Island, which has a café, craft beer and wine bar, and a boardwalk overlooking the river.