WEKIVA RIVER
KAYAKING & TOURS

ABOUT WEKIVA OUTFITTERS

We started way back in 1994 as a group of outdoor enthusiasts who spent more time paddling, snorkeling, and exploring swamps than at any job. We incorporated under the name “Into the Outdoors” until a large clothing manufacturer threatened us saying they had the rights to the name.

We have operated under several other names running local tours, overseas expeditions, and even operating as sales reps for a local kayak manufacturer. The recent boom in paddling demanded the need for a genuine outfitter on the river to offer shuttles, rentals, and tours on the entire river system, so here we are.

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We love the paddling community so come pay us a visit, hang out under the shade of one of the many live oaks, paddle the river, or just swap stories with us. We only ask that people respect the river, respect each other, and respect all living things. We look forward to meeting you all and showing off the river we all love so much.

Ask us Anything!

We are grateful for any questions you bring to us, go ahead and ask!

Also, we can help design custom packages if you'd like. Submit your questions in this form, and we will be back in touch as soon as possible.

WEKIVA RIVER KAYAKING & BENEFITS YOU DIDN'T EXPECT

The Wekiva river in Florida is one of Florida's few remaining untouched river systems. Nearly a quarter of its basin is set aside as parks, preserves, and state forests.

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The extensive stretch of undeveloped land, held together by the untamed and beautiful Wekiva River, can be found up north in Orlando. This beautiful place provides a plethora of recreational escapes that can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

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There are many ways to enjoy the rare beauty of this preserved system. However, of all the methods available, canoeing or kayaking is the best way.

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Kayaking mainly lets you get up and personal with the unique ecosystem, such as its one-of-a-kind animals. With Kayaking, you get a sense of immersion in nature that no other form of transportation offers.

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As a result, kayaking down the magnificent and pure Wekiva River in Central Florida is an experience that you won't soon forget. No matter how old or young you are or how experienced or inexperienced you are, you will never forget coming here.

You'll be wowed by the magnificent centuries-old oak trees that line the river's banks, providing an enticing canopy that shields you from the midday heat as you paddle along with the calm current of the river.

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Plus, if you go on a guided tour like the Wekiva Outfitters, you have a chance to learn as you enjoy your trip. The article will give a vivid description of what it’s like to paddle down the waters of the Wekiva River with your Kayak.

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About The Wekiva River

The Wekiva River system has a total land area of 352 square kilometres and is spread throughout three counties in Florida. The counties include Orange County, Seminole County, and Lake County.

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The Wekiva River demarcates between Orange County and Seminole County in Florida. However, it stays between Lake County and Seminole County as both counties remain on opposite sides of the river.

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The St. Johns River Water Management District and the Geographic Names Information System state that Wekiwa Springs is where the Wekiva River begins its journey. The St. Johns River Water Management District also states that the Wekiva River is joined by the Rock Springs Run approximately 0.8 miles (1.3 kilometres) downstream from the spring.

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The Wekiva system consists of approximately 34 identified springs and 42 miles of river that run together. Over a hundred different species of plants and animals, including several that are critically endangered, vulnerable, or of particular concern, call the vast floodplain of hardwood forest home.

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For instance, the wood stork is a threatened species that builds its nests in cypress trees around the river. If careful enough, you will observe the animal eating in the river's shallows at certain times of the year.

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Other species you may find in the area include the small blue heron, the tri-coloured heron, the gopher tortoise, the Florida black bear, the American alligator, and many more.

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The enormous river's watershed has beautiful natural features, such as crystal-clear springs, a breathtaking river system, and magnificent wilderness routes suitable for hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding.

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The basin is so large that you could spend a few days touring the basin, yet you still wouldn't see all there is to see.

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Benefits of Kayaking at Wekiva River

If you have not tried Kayaking at the Wekiva River, you may be under the impression that there is not much to kayaking activity. In reality, there are some surprising advantages of kayaking that you may not be aware of.

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Kayaking in a beautiful place like Wekiva gives you a fantastic opportunity to go outside to enjoy nature and have fun all together. In addition, the following are some benefits you may not know.

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Kayaking reduces stress and aids in getting a better night's sleep

Kayaking in a place like Wekiva River allows you to enjoy the fresh air while soaking up some vitamin D. Naturally, this is one of the most delicate things you can do to reduce stress.

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Numerous studies have shown that engaging in physical activity throughout the day may not only enhance the quality of sleep but also make it easier to fall asleep. Consequently, you feel refreshed when you get up in the morning, spend less time tossing and turning in bed and need fewer sleep drugs.

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In addition, you'll perform better on the water the more rested and refreshed you feel.

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Engage with the Natural World

You probably spend most of your day inside four walls, whether you work from home or at an office, study, or just enjoy watching television from the comfort of your sofa.

There is a good probability that you do not spend more than an hour each day exercising outdoors, even if you are very athletic.

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This kind of activity is wrong for our life. It is vital to have at least the recommended amount of vitamin D daily to strengthen your immune system, grow, and create healthy bones and teeth.

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Consuming an adequate amount of vitamin D may also reduce depressive symptoms and facilitate weight loss. Sadly, most individuals do not consume enough of this essential vitamin to meet their requirements.

Even while it is possible to get vitamin D via one's diet or supplements, the most effective method is to spend time basking in the sun.

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Even on the Wekiva river that is partially covered, kayaking will expose you to ultraviolet rays, which will enable your vitamin D levels to increase. As you go, you can bask in the sun and connect with nature and feel better.

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Improves Cardiovascular Health

Exercises focusing on the heart are essential if you want to build muscle in your heart, increase the amount of oxygen in your blood, and keep your blood circulation functioning well.

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Since kayaking is an aerobic exercise, participating regularly might help improve your cardiovascular health. Plus exercising in a place like Wekiva River releases endorphins that help you feel good.

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As a consequence of this, you may have a variety of positive effects on your physical health, such as a reduction in your body weight, your blood pressure, and your cholesterol levels.

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Beneficial for the Control of One's Weight

Keeping your weight in check is a vital component of leading a healthy lifestyle. However, if you have a lot of weight to lose, high-impact workouts like jogging and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) could be too much for your body to handle at once.

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In comparison, kayaking exerts very low-stress levels on your joints and muscles, making it an ideal activity for people of varying ages and levels of physical ability. Kayaking, on the other hand, is a fantastic exercise for the whole body.

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According to Harvard Health Publications, a paddler who weighs 125 pounds burns around 150 calories during a 30-minute exercise. However, a paddler who weighs 180 pounds will burn 210 calories during the same activity.

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When compared to the 453 calories that a person weighing 125 pounds may burn by jogging for 30 minutes, it may not seem like a very significant amount. However, since kayaking has a minimal impact, you can continue exercising for a much more extended time. In addition, spending the day on the water is much more enjoyable than running on a treadmill for half an hour.

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Final Thoughts

Finally, if you want to learn all there is to know about Wekiva River Preserve while kayaking there, you could join a Wekiva River Guided Kayak Tour.

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Wekiva Outfitters is one of the best options that you have. The company offers guided kayaking trips in the Wekiva River and employs local guides who have completed training via the University of Florida's Naturalist Program.

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The tour guides have extensive knowledge of the region and can answer any questions you may have thanks to their formal education and years of experience. You can trust these tour leaders to lead your family on a fun and educational kayaking adventure in Wekiva River Springs Park.