Welaka

Glide onto the St. Johns River and follow the gentle bends once explored by 18th-century naturalist William Bartram, paddling toward Welaka Springs and back. Joined by a local naturalist as your kayak guide, you’ll trace Bartram’s historic route while learning about the river’s ecology, wildlife, and cultural history. At Welaka Springs, clear, cool water rises from the limestone beneath a lush hammock of cypress, palmetto, and live oak. Wading birds, turtles, and alligators still line the banks much as they did in Bartram’s time, making the return journey a peaceful paddle through living history.