Blackwater River & Coldwater Creek Experience (near Pensacola)
February 16-22, 2026
Start: Blackwater Joe’s, Harold FL
End: Carpenter’s Park, Milton FL
Total Distance: 42-50 Miles
Full Trip Fees:
Includes camping, meals, river maps, and evening programs.
$725/Adults
$700/Seniors (65+) and college students
Registration Deadline: December 18, 2025 or when trip capacity of 36 paddlers is reached.
Optional cabins:
Official Outfitter: please email janice@paddleflorida.org
ALL OTHER INQUIRIES – please email janice@paddleflorida.org
Paddling Itinerary:
Come explore Penscola’s finest river and creek on our Blackwater RIver & Coldwater Creek Experience. We are excited to share these incredible areas with you and paddle in the beautiful Blackwater River State Forest! The Blackwater River of Florida is a 56.6-mile-long (91.1 km) river rising in southern Alabama and flowing through the Florida Panhandle to the Gulf of Mexico. The river enters Florida in Okaloosa County and flows through Santa Rosa County to Blackwater Bay, an arm of Pensacola Bay. The river passes through Blackwater River State Forest and Blackwater River State Park. Milton, the county seat of Santa Rosa County, is located on the river.
The Blackwater's sandy bottom, white beaches and large sandbars contrast with the dark tannic water that gives the river its name. "Blackwater" is a translation of the Choctaw word oka-lusa, which means "water black".
31 miles (50 km) of the river are navigable by canoe, kayak or small boats. We will paddle part of this Florida Canoe Trail and end at Blackwater River State Park. We have partnered with Florida State Parks so we can spend two nights at the Blackwater RIver State park, alllowing us an extra day to explore the beautiful white sandy beaches. From here we will continue on to the Milton, Florida, which calls itself the Canoe Capital of Florida, and the wealth of paddling opportunities in the area supports that name. One of the most beautiful and popular is Coldwater Creek, a premier Florida Panhandle paddling trail enjoyed for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. This lovely creek is mostly spring fed, which keeps the water cold (leading to its name) with clear shallow water and one of the swiftest currents in Florida (3+ mph). The bottom is sand or river rock, with many sand bars for stretching, picnicking, or camping. Due to the shallow water, there are few if any motor boats.. We hope you will join us for this warm weather escape!
| Day | Lunch Stop | Miles | Campsite | Daily Miles |
| 1 | N/A | N/A | Blackwater Joe's | 0 |
| 2 | Lunch on River | 5 | Blackwater Joe's | 10 |
| 3 | Lunch on River | 5 | Blackwater River State Park | 10 |
| 4 | At Camp | 7 | Blackwater River State Park | 0-8 |
| 5 | Lunch on River | 5 | Coldwater Creek Recreational Area | 10 |
| 6 | Lunch on River | 6 | Bob's Canoe Landing | 12 |
| 7 | END: Caprenter Park | 7 | 7 | |
| Total Miles | 42-50 |
Evening Programs
Evening programs will include presentations from authors, historians, environmental experts, and one night of live music.
Refund Policy
Due to the financial outlay and costs incurred by Paddle Florida during event planning, any force majeure, which includes but is not limited to water levels, inclement weather, and any other Acts of God not mentioned herein, shall not result in the refund of any fees paid to Paddle Florida. Absolutely no fees will be refunded after 15 days before the event begins. Before each trip registration deadline, requests for fee refunds will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
***You will receive a confirmation email message 7 - 10 days before the event with all the latest details on the trip***
Shuttle Details
Paddlers will all come to the start of the trip at Blackwater Joe’s.
Boat & Gear Recommendations
For this trip, we recommend sit-in kayaks, sit-on-top kayaks or paddleboards of at least 12 feet in length. This trip is for beginner paddlers, you should also be in moderately good physical condition and know how to swim. If you have any questions about the kind of environment you will encounter on this trip, please contact Janice Hindson at janice@paddleflorida.org
Paddle Florida Policies
All paddlers must attend the trip overview and orientation on the first evening. Paddlers must adhere to the safety guidelines presented.
Every Paddle Florida participant must wear a Coast Guard-approved NON-INFLATABLE personal flotation device while on the river (no ifs, and, or buts).
Every kayak and canoe should have a bowline, 8-10 feet in length, secured in such a way that it is readily accessible, but cannot come loose accidentally. Loose ropes increase the risk of entanglement in the event of a capsize.
Kayaks should have grab-loops at both bow and stern.
Paddlers under age 18 are the responsibility of and must be accompanied by, a parent or guardian. No more than two children under the age of 12 per adult guardian.
Sorry, no pets allowed.
All paddlers must provide emergency contact information and sign a Waiver of Claims and Release of Liability form. Parents must sign for their children under the age of 18.
People-powered watercraft only.
Paddle Florida adheres to all rules put forth by the public parks we stay in, including the ban on alcoholic beverages.
All paddlers must respect private property along waterways.
All paddlers must have basic paddling and swimming skills
Violations of any of these policies can result in the paddler being removed from the event without a refund.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1/Monday February 16:
Blackwater Joe’s, Paddling Miles: 0
Blackwater Joe’s is a beautiful place with an incredible beach with access to the Blackwater River. Paddlers will check in between 1 - 5 PM and set up their tents, eat dinner, and receive an orientation for the adventure to come.
Dinner will be served at 6PM each night, followed by an evening program at 7PM. Nightly entertainment ranges from musicians to educational speakers who will provide insights regarding the flora, fauna, and ecology of the region we’re paddling through. Be sure to bring cameras to capture and preserve some great moments.
Day 2/Tuesday, February 17:
Blackwater Joe’s - Today we will shuttle to the put in and paddle back to Blackwater Joe’s: 10 miles
This winding stream is suitable for beginners and flows through the unspoiled Blackwater River State Forest with trees often forming a dense, shady canopy over the river. High bluffs occur in some sections where pine and cedar trees tower above paddlers. The water is coffee colored by naturally occurring tannins, the reason why Creek Indians called the river “Oka Lusa” (“black water”). White sandbars provide plenty of options for camping or picnicking.
Beautiful white sandy beaches!
Day 3/Wednesday February 18:
Today we will paddle from Blackwater Joe’s to Blackwater River State Park: 10 miles
The striking beaches
At Blackwater RIver State Park.
Day 4/Thursday February 19:
Layover day at Blackwater RIver State Park. Optional 5 mile paddle to explore surrounding area.
Day 5/Friday February 20 :
Coldwater Creek Paddle - Paddling Miles: 10
On this day we will make our way to the Coldwater Creek Recreational Area, Amidst the verdant landscapes of the Sunshine State, where the whispering breezes of the South rustle through the trees, Coldwater Equestrian Campground beckons to all who seek adventure in the heart of nature. Located within the Blackwater River State Forest in Santa Rosa County, about an hour's drive from Pensacola, Florida, this equestrian haven offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the great outdoors.
Discovering Coldwater Equestrian Campground
After a day of exploring the wonders of the forest, you can freshen up in the clean and well-maintained restrooms and showers, ensuring your comfort throughout your stay.
Day 6/Saturday February 21:
Coldwater Recreational Area to Bob’s Canoe Landing, Paddling Miles: 12
After a hearty breakfast, paddlers will pack up their tents, load their camping gear on our truck, and launch their boats at the boat ramp. We’ll travel 12 miles (heading south) to Bob’s Canoe Landing.
Day 7/Sunday February 22:
Bob’s Canoe Landing to Carpenter Park - Paddling Miles: 7
Today we’ll explore the last section of Coldwater Creek. We hope you will take memories of this great place with you.
Mission Statement
PADDLE FLORIDA is a non-profit corporation that promotes water conservation, wildlife preservation, springs restoration, and waterways protection via fun and educational multi-day paddling trips in Florida’s most spectacular river and coastal environments. The vehicle for carrying out this mission is the staging of the multi-day paddling/camping trips in each of Florida’s five water management districts from October to April each year. Paddle Florida also seeks to promote Florida as an international destination for nature-based tourism in general, and paddling in particular.
Ranging from three to six days, trips are open to all paddling skill levels and designed to maximize enjoyment of Florida’s natural environments while engaging and empowering citizens so that they may become involved in the protection and restoration of our waterways.
If you wish to be pampered by professional guides, this isn’t the trip for you. But, if you want to experience a real community brought together under a common goal and by the thrill of adventure, Paddle Florida is the trip for you
The Meal Plan
Your Paddle Florida trip fee covers the meal plan, which provides hearty catered breakfasts and dinners, plus daily lunch snacks of assorted fruits, sandwich items, snacks, and drinks.
General Guidelines
Baggage:
Each paddler is limited to two bags and a total of 40-pounds of luggage. You have to haul your baggage and place it in the gear truck each morning, and haul it back to your campsite each evening of the trip. After paddling all day (about 8,000 paddle strokes per day), a 40-pound bag is really heavy. We recommend you pack as lightly and tightly as possible. This saves your back and the backs of your fellow paddlers. Everyone is expected to assist with the loading and unloading of the truck during the week.
Items we would rather not see in your luggage include bulky chaise lounge chairs, framed bedding/cots, and boxes without tops. Your gear should be packed so that it will not get wet. In the afternoon, your baggage may be removed and placed outside the gear truck where it will be exposed to the elements. Overnight rains may result in gear being packed up wet. A wet tent on top of your clothes bag will result in wet clothes. Plan on inclement weather and make sure you have a bag that will protect important gear in the event of rain.
Please place a label on your luggage with your name on it and make sure your bags are secure.
Suggested Packing Lists
For Water: [Note: Unless you’re wearing it, every item you bring should be secured to your boat. Carabiners and bungee cords can be handy devices for this purpose.]
Boat and paddle. Need to rent? Contact Janice at janice.a.hindson.com
PFD. Every Paddle Florida participant must wear a Coast Guard-approved NON-INFLATABLE personal flotation device while on the river (no ifs, and, or buts).
Every kayak and canoe should have a bowline, 8-10 feet in length, secured in such a way it is readily accessible, but cannot come loose accidentally. Loose ropes increase the risk of entanglement in the event of a capsize. Kayaks should have grab-loops at both bow and stern.
An extra throw rope in case of emergencies should be stored safely in each boat.
Attach a whistle to your PFD or body to signal for help in case of emergency.
A knife.
Waterproof matches or another fire source in a waterproof covering.
First aid kit—each vessel should bring a first aid kit stored inside a waterproof covering.
Repair kit—each vessel should be able to make its own repairs (i.e., duct tape, sealant, waterproof tape).
Rain gear—be prepared to get wet and potentially cold. Every participant should have access to a lightweight jacket or fleece, rain jacket, and rain pants or kayak skirt.
Dry change of clothes—be prepared to take an unexpected swim. Every participant should have access to a dry change of clothes kept in a waterproof covering.
Appropriate close-toed footwear that will protect your feet from unseen underwater hazards and permit you to walk comfortably on slippery and jagged limestone when launching and taking out. Flip flops do not meet these criteria.
Sun protection—sunburn might be the trip’s biggest hazard. Bring ample sunscreen and wear a protective hat and sunglasses.
Mask and snorkel? We may get a chance to snorkel at Wabasso Island.
Water—drinking water will be readily available along the Paddle Florida route. Bring sufficient water bottles for the day’s paddle for everyone in your boat.
Food—there is little access to restaurants or grocery stores along the Paddle Florida route. Lunch snacks each day are provided to registered participants. You may also want to bring along your own snacks.
Dry Bag or Ziploc—bring a waterproof bag to protect additional items you don’t want to get wet, like your camera or cell phone.
GPS unit? We’ll give you a map, but a GPS unit might also be handy to note the locations of campsites.
For Land:
Tent
Sleeping bag, pad, and pillow
Camp chair
Clothes to keep you comfortable in temperatures generally ranging from 50-85 degrees. Think layers. You’ll likely be wearing more during potentially chilly mornings, then peeling off layers as the day progresses. Remember dry shoes for when you’re in camp and keep in mind there are often hiking trails available at the parks we camp in.
Bathing suit, maybe.
Headlamp and/or flashlight.
Toiletries and medications.
Other tent items: reading materials, iPod, ear plugs…?
A camera to record the awesome memories you’ll be making!