FLORIDA'S HIDDEN GEM, THE CHIPOLA RIVER AND FLORIDA CAVERNS

STARTING AT

$1,550

7 Days

Advanced

Home

Lodge-Base Tours

Florida’s Hidden Gem, the Chipola River Paddle, & Florida Caverns

OVERVIEW

Chipola River Base Lodge

Fed by numerous springs, this scenic 51-mile paddling trail flows through high bluffs, river swamps and hardwood forests, with few signs of humanity along most of the river. Chipola River is photographer’s delight with colorful fall foliage, spring wildflowers and abundant wildlife. The water alters color from clear gold to an opal-like blue, with crystal clear springs tucked along the river. Limestone bluffs and caves, part of the unique karst geology, add to the unique beauty of the Chipola River.

TOUR DATES

November 8-14th, 2025

DAY 1: All guests will meet at the Pensacola International Airport at noon. We will be shuttled to our lodge via private transportation. Once at our lodge we will go over introductions, cover the day to day itinerary, answer all questions, take a short nature hike, then return in time for our first dinner together.

DAY 2 Beautiful upper section of paddling with lots of springs and tiny caves, we paddle until the river goes underground at Florida Caverns S.P, we will portage (vans) then put back in and paddle 6 more miles to the Magnolia Bridge. 10.5 total miles of paddling

DAY 3 Magnolia Bridge to Johnny Boy Landing. 16.5 miles of paddling. This section of river is shaded and includes a few riffles, great picnic lunch spot with a huge pasture, and a few spring runs to explore. Today we will stop at our favorite post paddle sweet shop, Southern Craft Creamery.

DAY 4: Today we will paddle and explore the mysterious Ocheeses Pond. This well kept secret is a huge sinkhole that has filled with millions of cypress trees that now make up a giant swamp that makes you feel like you are going to be swallowed up by the Earth itself. Bring your cameras for the blooming pitcher plants and bladder worts. After our paddle we will make our way to the Nature Conservancy’s “Garden of Eden Trail” and enjoy the high bluffs overlooking the Appalachacola River.

DAY 5: Way back in the day the first settlers of Marianna damned the spring run to power a grain mill. Several large springs now feed the Merritt Mill Pond. We will paddle the crystal clear water, paddle into a few spring caves, and get out of our kayaks and snorkel a few. If there is enough daylight left we will float the spring run from Merritt Mill Pond to the confluence of the Chipola. Sleep will come fast and hard after a huge fireside dinner!

DAY 6: A bit of a drive with a huge pay off. Today we will explore Dead Lakes with all of it’s skeleton trees, tupelo, and giant cypress. We will also stop in nearby Wewahitchka for some local tupelo honey.

DAY 7: Take your time with a morning hike, bike, or paddle. We will start packing up after a hearty breakfast. We will have everyone back to the airport by noon.

Built in 1917 our lodge has 6 bedrooms and six bathrooms. Newly remodeled with the essential modern conveniences. Enjoy the view from one of the many porches. Eat in kitchen screen porch with the view of the oak trees is the perfect place for breakfast. The lodge is so large, nearly 6000 sq feet H/C, each guest will find their own space to disappear and relax for a while. Even spreading out to the 4000 sq foot of porches. Board games and cards are available to pay in the game room or any of the many tables throughout the house. The property is a great place to walk and admire the 200+ year old peaceful oak trees.

The leaders will prepare and serve all meals. Meals included in the trip fee begin with lunch on the first day and end with lunch on the last day. Meals served on the trip will honor and reflect local cuisine. A typical dinner would consist of shrimp Creole, white rice, garlic bread, fresh salad, and something chocolate for dessert. If you have a particular diet or allergy please let us know prior to the trip.

Adventures in Florida provides all meals, lodging, kayaks/canoes, paddling gear, paddling safety gear, permits, shuttles, and two local experienced guides.

This is a wonderful paddle for new or experienced paddlers alike. Everyone should be in reasonable shape, be comfortable swimming, be able to get in and out of their own kayak with out help, and be able to help carry gear each day.