Rock Springs Run Kayak Rentals with Shuttle

Self-Guided 8.5-Mile Kayak Shuttle Run on Rock Springs Run – Apopka, FL

Paddle the full length of Rock Springs Run — all 8.5 miles / 13.7 km of it — entirely at your own pace. The Shuttle Run is a self-guided downstream paddle from King's Landing all the way to Wekiva Island, with a return shuttle included to bring you back to your car. No guide, no fixed schedule, just you and one of Florida's most extraordinary wild rivers from start to finish.

The run begins in the crystal-clear spring water of the Emerald Cut and transitions downstream into the more tannic, wildlife-rich Wild Florida stretch of Rock Springs Run. As the water darkens and the jungle closes in, the wildlife encounters intensify — larger turtles, alligators, river otters, deer, black bears, herons, egrets, and bald eagles are all commonly spotted on the lower half of the run. The ever-changing landscape keeps every paddle stroke interesting.

The trip averages 4.5 hours on the water, with the full window typically running 4–6 hours depending on how many stops you make. One shuttle departs from the Wekiva Island dock at 3:30pm — this is the only shuttle of the day, and guests must have their shuttle run wristband to board. Guests who arrive at Wekiva Island early are welcome to enter the park at no additional cost and 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 the shuttle departs.

This is an experienced paddlers only trip. Due to the length, remote nature, and the one-way format of the run, this is not suitable for beginners. Paddle experience is required.

Optional add-on: guests who launch by 8:30am can paddle the scenic Emerald Cut first before beginning the shuttle run, adding an additional 2 miles / 3.2 km to the journey.

Duration

1. 4–6 hours on the water (average 4.5 hours)
   
2. Approximately 8.5 miles / 13.7 km — entirely downstream
   
3. Check-in cutoff: 10:30am — guests who check in after 10:30am will not be permitted to launch for the remainder of the day
   
4. Shuttle departs Wekiva Island dock at 3:30pm — guests must have their wristband to board
   

Location / Where to Meet

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

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.

A valid ID (driver's license, military ID, passport, or fishing license) is required at check-in and will be held for the duration of the rental.

Ages & Requirements

1. Minimum age: Children under 2 years of age are not permitted.
   
2. Recommended minimum age: 13 years old
   
3. Prior paddling experience is required — this is not suitable for beginners. Guests must be comfortable paddling independently for up to 6 hours in a moving river environment and at ease with Florida wildlife including alligators.
   
4. Guests must be fully prepared for the trip — a rescue fee of $100 per person will be assessed for any guest who requests a rescue due to being unprepared.
   
5. Vessel options and weight limits:
   
1. Single Kayak: 1 person, max weight 300 lbs (136 kg)
   
2. Double Kayak: 2 people, max weight 450 lbs (204 kg)
   

What's Included

1. Kayak rental (single or double — your choice of vessel)
   
2. All safety equipment (PFD, paddle)
   
3. Shuttle return from Wekiva Island back to King's Landing
   
4. Access to Rock Springs Run for the full downstream run
   

Not Included

1. Guides — this is a self-guided paddle
   
2. Gratuity — never expected, but always appreciated if staff go above and beyond.
   
3. Lockers for personal belongings (available on-site for a rental fee)
   
4. Water, snacks and food — given the 4–6 hour duration, bringing plenty of both is strongly recommended
   
5. 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 4–6 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.