Tips for the best day on the water while kayaking in Silver Springs!
A trip to the Silver River and Silver Springs in central Florida is truly taking a step back in time. Paddling down the Silver River is the best way to experience “Old Florida”, where the landscape has remained untouched for hundreds of years. Gazing down into the crystal-clear water displays a showcase of fish, seagrass, turtles, and even manatees.
And don’t forget about the monkeys that live in the trees along the riverbank! For that real “jungle cruise” feeling, take a day to paddle the Silver River.
Where is the Silver River?
The Silver River is located in central Florida east of Ocala just outside of the Ocala National Forest. The river starts at the Silver Springs headsprings and eventually connects to the Ocklawaha River. While it is a shorter river, it has a long and rich history with an abundance of surrounding woodlands and wildlife.
Will I see monkeys while kayaking in Silver Springs?
There is a definite possibility that you will see a monkey (or several) during your paddle. More than 300 rhesus macaques, a monkey native to Asia, are thriving in the woodlands of Silver Springs. Back in the 1930’s, several monkeys were released by a boat tour operator onto an island to create a local “Jungle Cruise” tourist attraction. Guess what he didn’t know? Monkeys are very good swimmers!
These monkeys have multiplied and spread their territory from that one island to the banks of the Silver and Ocklawaha Rivers, and with no natural predators they continue to multiply. Visitors can often see them leaping from tree to tree overhead, or even sitting along the riverbank looking ever so cute. But don’t get too close, some carry a deadly virus! They are clever and curious but unless you are holding out food, they should not be a problem.
PSA: Do not feed any wild animals! These animals do not need our help and every time a wild animal is fed, it becomes a danger to others. In Silver Springs, feeding the monkeys is punishable by a fine and jail time.
When is the best time to visit a Florida spring?
Unlike other springs and state parks in Florida, there is no swimming, tubing, snorkeling, or diving allowed at Silver Springs. The reason for this is to keep the wildlife wild, and the banks of the river clean and undisturbed. Since you won’t be getting wet, any time from fall through spring is perfect for paddling the Silver River. The weather is mild and there are less mosquitoes.
There are several other springs in the Ocala National Forest that are great for swimming and snorkeling, such as Rainbow Springs, Salt Springs, Juniper Springs, and Silver Glen Springs. These are best enjoyed in the warmer months because the water is a constantly cool 72° year round.
How long does it take to paddle the Silver River in Silver Springs?
The Silver River is just under six miles long with a very slow current from the springs. Total paddle time should be around four hours from the launch point at the state park to the pickup at Ray Wayside Park. This includes taking your time, stopping to see the manatees, and pulling aside for the Glass Bottom Boat tours as they have the right of way.
Silver River Paddling Launch Points
The easiest place to launch your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard is at Silver Springs State Park. Kayaks and canoes can also be rented here, and there is a small outfitter with essentials such as life jackets, sunscreen, waterproof bags, and sunglasses.
The parking area to the launch site is just a short walk, and the shuttle ride will bring you back to the parking lot. The shuttle bus was prompt and clean, making this a great experience after a morning of paddling!
To launch here you will have to pay the park entry fee of $2 per person, unless you are camping at Silver Springs and then the fee is waived. The launch fee is $4 if you bring your own vessel, or $15 if you wish to use the return shuttle.
Another option is to launch from Ray Wayside Park and travel upstream towards the springs. Keep in mind to reach the headspring and return back is over a 10 mile paddle, half of which is against the current. There is a $5 fee per vehicle to park and launch from this county park.
Silver Springs State Park
After your paddle, you should continue on to explore Silver Springs State Park. Their world-famous glass bottom boat tours are a must, and with miles of shaded hiking trails it is easy to spend a day here.
The state park campground also has a launch point that guests can access for free located at the two mile mark when heading downriver. However, the walk from the closest parking area to the water is over half a mile away. To reach this launch take the River Trail 0.6 miles. When paddling, this is a great spot to get off of the water for a bit and have a snack at the provided picnic tables.
Wildlife along the Silver River
The Silver River and Silver Springs is home to hundreds of animals besides the infamous feral monkeys. Manatees are abundant here especially in the winter months, when they migrate to the warmer waters of the springs in herds.
Turtles bask on logs along the shoreline while anhinga dry their wings nearby. Herons, egrets, and ospreys return each year to breed. And as in any waterway in Florida, there is the occasional alligator sighting! However they prefer the murky waters where the Silver River mixes with the Ocklawaha.
Tips for Paddling in Florida
- Bring a small cooler on the river or even into the park for a picnic. This one is great for trips and stays ice cold.
- Wear sunscreen, and remember to reapply. The sun is super strong in Florida, and one sunburn can ruin your trip. We love this one because it is reef friendly and zinc based- no more chemicals! And don’t forget your lips, they need protection too.
- Wear UPF clothing, and a good hat. This helps with the sun and with the bugs!
- Water shoes are helpful in Florida for walking on rocky surfaces in the rivers and springs.
- Bring a reusable travel water bottle. This one stays cold all day, holds 40 ounces of liquids, AND fits in our cup holders!
- Bring a waterproof camera such as a GoPro, there is so much marine life to see and capture in photos.
- If you will be paddling with your phone, use this waterproof phone case for protection. Also a dry bag or floating case for credit cards and keys is essential!
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We know you will love your day on the water at Silver Springs. Other great springs and rivers to paddle in Florida:
Happy Travels!
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