Blackwater Creek Paddle

Looking for a cooler outdoor adventure? Join Trout Lake Nature Center on Saturday July 24th for a paddle on Blackwater Creek in Seminole State Forest.

This is a delightful trip on a stream stained dark by "swamp tea" steeped from the vegetation of the surrounding wetland. The water is made darker still by the cool shadows of the over-hanging trees. No power boats are allowed so the sounds will be our voices, dripping paddles and perhaps the complaint of a startled Great Blue Heron. Bring a snack or early lunch, we plan to stop at Moccasin Spring, explore the boils, maybe spot an alligator hiding on the bottom.

We will meet at Seminole State Forest South entrance. Directions: Traveling through Mt Dora on US 441 turn East onto SR 46 proceed about 12 miles. There is a sign marking the entrance to the forest on the left. If you cross the Wekiva River you have gone too far. Go back about a half mile, the entrance is now on your right. After turning into the entrance, proceed on the gravel road. Stop at the pay station, you will need $2.00. Almost immediately after the pay station pull into the Bear Pond parking lot on your left. We will meet there at 8:30am. This will be a leisurely paddle and we will be off the water about noon.

If you wish to join us you must reserve a space; we have a limited number of permits. Call 352-357-7536 or 352-223-4761, slowly leave your number, and a message; you will receive a confirmation call.