Blue Springs Hopper
The only paddle on the Santa Fe that ends at the State Park, with return shuttle services
The Blue Springs Hopper takes you along a beautiful, spring-filled stretch of the Santa Fe River near High Springs, Florida. Launch from Poe Springs Park, explore crystal-clear freshwater springs along the way, and finish your Adventure at the refreshing, sapphire waters of Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park.
Visit 5 or more springs along the way:
The Blue Springs Hopper is the perfect short paddle. Only 2.5 miles downriver, ending at the beautiful newly renovated R.B.K. Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park
Lilly Springs
Pickard Springs
Mermaid Springs
Rum Island Springs
Gilchrist Blue Springs
Why choose this Adventure:
The Blue Springs Hopper by AOA is the only authorized paddle on the Santa Fe that includes ends at the newly renovated State Park, with shuttle services to get you back from Gilchrist Blue Springs to your vehicle.
Paddle through the heart of Florida’s spring country as the Santa Fe River carries you from one beautiful destination to the next. Beginning at Poe Springs Park, you’ll pass Mermaid Springs, Rum Island Spring, and other hidden gems before finishing your adventure in the crystal-clear and sapphire waters of Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park.
Step 1:
Reserve Online:
Simply tap above to take a look at the calendar and reserve your Blue Springs Hopper in real time.
Step 2:
Check-in at Poe
Arrive at Poe Springs Park ( 28800 NW 182nd Ave. High Springs, FL ), Pay your entry fee ( $6 ), Drive to AOA’s Boat Barn & kayak launch inside the park and check-in with staff.
Step 3:
Launch your Watercraft
Our dedicated team will make sure that you have everything you need and answer any final questions you may have, then you board your vessel and slip into the Santa Fe River to paddle downriver.
Step 4:
Check in with our staff at the Gilchrist Blue Springs Smokehouse & Mercantile
After enjoying R.B.K. Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park for awhile, putting your day pass to use, simply call our office or tap the shuttle button on the app and one of our driver’s will arrive at Santa Fe River Park to shuttle your craft, your gear, and yourself back to Poe Springs Park