VIP Wild Florida Kayak Adventure

This is a 2.5-hour guided kayak tour — approximately 2.5 miles / 4 km — that begins with a golf cart ride to a private launch at the top of Rock Springs Run, just 1/4 mile from the springhead. From there, it's an entirely downstream float through the Emerald Cut and into the Wild Florida section of the river, with swimming stops and wildlife watching along the way. Single kayaks, double kayaks, and paddleboards are all available.

The VIP tour covers more of the river — including the Wild Florida section downstream — and the entire journey is downstream with the current, so there's no upstream paddling at all. A golf cart transports you to the private launch at the top of the run to make this possible. It's longer (2.5 hours vs. 2 hours), covers more diverse terrain, and takes you into quieter, more wildlife-rich stretches that the standard Emerald Cut tour doesn't reach. It's the most complete guided experience available on Rock Springs Run.

Beyond the Emerald Cut, Rock Springs Run transitions into a more tannic, jungle-like stretch known as Wild Florida — a section of the river that sees far fewer visitors and is home to an abundance of wildlife. The water shifts from clear emerald to a darker, tea-colored hue as tannins from the surrounding forest enter the flow. This area is where alligator sightings, river otters, deer, and birds are most commonly encountered, and where the river retains a truly untouched, primeval character.

No — this is entirely a downstream float. The golf cart ride at the start of the tour transports your group to the private launch at the top of the run, so the current does all the work from put-in to take-out. It's a relaxed, accessible experience for all fitness levels within the beginner-to-intermediate range.

Yes — paddleboards are available for this tour in addition to single and double kayaks. Before embarking on the water, your guide will provide paddling instruction and customize the experience to your skill level. The higher vantage point of a paddleboard is great for spotting wildlife.

The tour covers approximately 2.5 miles / 4 km, all downstream with the current. There is no upstream paddling on this tour. It is suitable for beginner to intermediate paddlers, as long as you are a confident swimmer and in good physical condition.

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.