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Why You Need to Visit Get Up And Go Kayaking at Rock Springs

a man riding on the back of a boat in the water

Imagine gliding through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush greenery and spotting wildlife like turtles, otters, and maybe even a small gator—all from the comfort of a 100% clear kayak. That’s exactly what you’ll get with Get Up And Go Kayaking at their Rock Springs location in Apopka, Florida. This isn’t just any kayaking trip; it’s a front-row seat to nature’s wonders, and here’s why it should be at the top of your must-visit list.

The Original Adventure Spot

Rock Springs is where it all started for Get Up And Go Kayaking back in 2016, making it the heart and soul of their journey. Since then, they’ve expanded across Florida, Texas, and Tennessee, but this flagship location remains a standout. Rated the #1 activity near Orlando by USA TODAY and boasting over 4,000 five-star reviews, it’s clear this spot has something special. It’s close enough for a day trip from Orlando but feels like a world away, offering a perfect escape into nature.

A Paddle Through Paradise

The tour kicks off at Kings Landing, where you’ll hop into a clear kayak and paddle upstream through the Emerald Cut—a stretch of water so stunning it’s named for its emerald hue. The tree canopies overhead create a jungle-like vibe, and the water below is a window to an underwater world of fish and swaying plants. It’s an intermediate paddle, so you’ll get a little workout, but the reward is drifting back downstream, soaking in the scenery. Along the way, you’ll hit photo-worthy stops like the Bonsai Tree and Sandbar/Banana Bend, where deer and otters might make a cameo.

The water stays a refreshing 68-70°F year-round, and there’s even a chance to hop in for a swim. At 2 to 2.5 hours, the tour is just the right length—long enough to feel immersed, short enough to fit into your day. With small groups of up to 10 paddlers, it’s intimate, and the guides are there to point out wildlife and share cool facts about the area. Think of it as a nature lesson meets adventure, all rolled into one.

Wildlife and Wonders

Rock Springs is alive with creatures that make every paddle a discovery. You might spot turtles sunning themselves, birds swooping overhead, or otters playing in the shallows. Fish dart beneath your kayak, and if you’re lucky, you could catch a glimpse of a small gator or even a brown bear in the distance. The clear kayaks amplify the experience—there’s nothing between you and the underwater action. It’s like kayaking in an aquarium, but it’s all real, wild, and untouched.

More Than Just a Tour

What sets this apart is the heart behind it. Get Up And Go Kayaking donates a portion of every Rock Springs tour to Florida Land & Springs Conservation, helping protect this pristine spot for years to come. You’re not just a visitor; you’re part of something bigger. Plus, the guides are pros—many are certified Guardian Guides, meaning they know how to show you the sights without disturbing the ecosystem. Reviews rave about their knowledge and friendliness, with folks calling out guides like Megan and Austin for making the trip unforgettable.

A Brush with Fame

Here’s a fun twist: Rock Springs isn’t just a local gem—it’s caught the eye of the spotlight. In 2022, it was featured on ABC’s “The Bachelor,” turning a romantic paddle into TV gold. Influencers like Heather Martin and Kelsey Owens from MTV’s “Siesta Key” have also sung its praises online. It’s not every day you can kayak where celebrities have been, adding a little extra thrill to your adventure.

Why You Should Go

So, why visit Get Up And Go Kayaking at Rock Springs? It’s the perfect mix of beauty, adventure, and purpose. You’ll paddle through one of Florida’s most gorgeous springs, see wildlife up close, and leave knowing you’ve supported conservation. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend outing or a tourist exploring near Orlando, this is a can’t-miss experience. It’s beginner-friendly yet exciting for seasoned paddlers, and the clear kayaks make it unlike anything else out there.

Ready to dive in? Book your tour at Get Up And Go Kayaking – Rock Springs. Bonus: Collect an exclusive Rock Springs sticker as part of their loyalty program—because who doesn’t love a keepsake from a day this good? Trust me, once you’ve experienced Rock Springs, you’ll be planning your next paddle before you’re even dry.

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