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Blackwater River - A Favorite River to Canoe and Kayak

Located in Northwest Florida and a short drive from Mobile, Pensacola, Montgomery, Fort Walton Beach and Panama City, Blackwater River is a favorite river to canoe and kayak in Florida.  With it's pure sandy bottom and refreshing water that flows through the Blackwater River State Forrest, Blackwater River is a popular river for people to canoe, kayak, camp, and fish.

The Blackwater River Canoe Trail is officially designated as part of Florida's Statewide System of Greenways and Trails. Located in the middle of Florida's Western Highlands, this 31-mile canoe trail flows through the Blackwater River State Forest. Cedar, maple, and cypress trees often form a dense canopy over the river. There are also some high bluffs where pine and cedar trees tower above the paddler. The water is a dark, tannin-stained color. The Creek Indians called the river "Oka Lusa" (water-black). Along the bends, white sandbars provide a perfect place for camping or picnicking. The trail provides opportunity to observe wildlife including deer, turkey and bobcat. The Mississippi Kite soars overhead in the summer. Fishing can be an enjoyable addition to the trip. This panhandle trail ends at the Deaton Bridge, in Blackwater River State Park.

To request more information or to make reservations to kayak or canoe the Blackwater River, please click here.