Some of these waters are Ichetucknee, Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Do any lakes in Florida not have alligators? They're carnivorous predators, and it's not unusual for them to lose teeth on a difficult kill. The No. This Orlando landmark is a great place to go kayaking, especially if youre looking for a bit of city scenery. First of all, feeding gators is illegal in Florida, so that's a pretty good reason not to do it. 1 rule of alligator safety is an easy one. I got my start in education as a teacher, working with students in grades K-12. Although alligators can be found in ponds, lakes, canals, rivers, swamps, and bayous in Louisiana, they are most common in our coastal marshes. Each month the park hosts ranger-led tours that are free to the public and nighttime hikes for a small fee. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. What Is Oil Canning on a Kayak? Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. However, there have been repeated cases of alligators getting into peoples' yards and homes. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that arent occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. With its crystal-clear water and shady banks, the river is a great place to spend a relaxing day on the water. ]. Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. Why are there no alligators in Florida springs? Despite what the media and Lake Placid would have you believe, alligators are not naturally aggressive toward humans. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! RELATED: Father of boy killed by gator couldnt pull child from gators jaws. The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. These include: Ichetucknee Springs John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Weeki Wachee Springs Blackwater River The Great Calusa Blueway Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Rainbow Springs State Park Weather can change quickly in Florida, so its important to check the forecast before heading out and ensure you have all the necessary safety equipment. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. They live in China and grow up to 1.5 to 2.1 meters or 5 to 7 feet long. What Happens To The Male Duck After Mating? Alligators are fascinating creatures, but that doesn't mean we'd be willing to get close to any of the million-plus living in Flordia right now. The leading independent voice for aviation news and insight. They already feel they have free run of the place, but when bad weather strikes, it's not uncommon to find displaced gators on the roads, in local swimming pools, and even in your backyard. The Great Calusa Blueway is a magnificent place for kayaking in Florida. Alligators are shy animals that usually avoid human contact. Like bears, gators can smell the menstruation, which will put your entire party at risk. There are an estimated five million American alligators in the southeastern U.S. with a quarter of the alligator population in Florida. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. We love outdoor adventures! Theres no need to worry about alligators here as they are not present in the area, so if youre looking for a place to explore and observe wildlife while kayaking, the Suwannee River is your best bet. National Geographic did an entire study disproving this fact. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. A photo of an American Alligator Sunning itself, Cape Canaveral National Seashore, FL, Some People Refer To Them As "Living Fossils", An Alligator Will Grow More Than 2,000 Teeth In Its Lifetime, They Aren't Naturally Aggressive Toward Humans, The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million, The Largest Alligator Weighed In At Over A Thousand Pounds, Temperature Determines Whether An Alligator Is Male Or Female, because of the Everglades and many swamps, 10 Things You Didn't Know About The Loch Ness Monster, alligators and crocodiles are not living fossils, 10 Of The Most Haunted Places To Visit In Florida, a common sight in the swamps of Louisiana, Lavish Accommodations: Discovering The 10 Most Expensive Hotels In Chile, Breathtaking Mountain Views & Great Luxury: 10 Most Expensive Hotels In Argentina, Spirited Stays: 10 Haunted Hotels In Savannah To Satisfy Your Paranormal Passion, Fun In A University City: The Ultimate Guide To Bowling Green & Things To Do, Beaches & Views: The Ultimate Guide To Biloxi & Things To Do, Art & Adventures: The Ultimate Guide To Knoxville & Things To Do, Luxury At Its Finest: The 10 Most Expensive Hotels In New York City, 10 Best Tropical Destinations Around The World You Should Visit, Discover The Incredible Hidden Gems In Algarve, Portugal. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators? November 6, 2022. While many people may look at crocs and think they look like lizards conclude they must be related (after all, they are both reptiles). The specific species of crocodile that lives in Florida is the American Crocodile. Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. We cover the whole outdoor arena. Alligator and Wildlife Discovery Center, in Madeira Beach on Florida's west coast, is a smaller stop that's good for kids who want to give a gator a smooch, while Jungle Adventures, near Merritt Island on the Space Coast, features all sorts of Florida critters plus a jungle swamp river cruise. What to do if an alligator is chasing you? Most of us think of alligators as vicious, carnivorous predators, but did you know they are fond of eating fruit? Do not allow your dogs or children to swim in waters inhabited by alligators, or to drink or play at the waters edge. If you plan on kayaking, the best time to visit Ichetuknee Spring is during winter, as the waters are quieter without all of the tubers. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Alligators are not usually seen in the Ichetucknee Springs. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. And dont forget your camera! You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. Lake Kissimmee near Orlando comes in second with just shy of 2,000. It is vital that you fight back and not just lie still. As we mentioned earlier in this article, alligator attacks are rare. The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while paddling in Florida, let us write some useful tips that can help you stay safe on your kayaking trip in Florida waters. Some of these markings might include large indentations or gouges in the ground and sliding marks where they reentered the water. They just push through the screen and off they go.. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. I'm also a big believer in lifelong learning- there's always something new to learn! This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. Most locals are aware of the alligators around and know how to steer clear of them. Kayaking with a partner is always recommended as it can be beneficial if something goes wrong while on the water. Use your common sense and if you see or hear anything that makes you uncomfortable, head back to shore. That makes Florida the only ecosystem in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. It is one of the United States wildest and longest publically owned coastal wetlands. So these are where you can go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing Alligators. That means Floridians cant just call up the local alligator trapper to remove one like they would if it were a raccoon or possum. Complete Guide. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. Here, you can explore the estuarine waters of Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay, and Cayo Costa State Park. In June 2016, 2-year-old Lane Graves died after he was snatched from the shore of a Disney World resort by an alligator. [Whats The Best Method? The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. So grab your kayak and explore Floridas waterways today! Video. 1. Video of the capture, shared online by the Miami Dade Police Department, showed an officer with a lasso as he tried to bring in the large hissing gator. Not to scare people, but there are over a million of them and they are all around.. Heavy and ungainly out of. Let's get one thing straight; alligators and crocodiles are not living fossils. Though theres a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. American alligators are found mostly in South Florida, where they live in brackish and saltwater habitats such as ponds, bays, and creeks of mangrove swamps. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. Explanation: Hydrogen, helium and lithium were forged 13. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. American Alligators are found in the Southeastern United States including Orlando. The American alligator is native to the southeastern United States and is found in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Texas. over a year ago. # alligators # are # fort # lauderdale . It's not all that surprising, given how well-kept the waters are. The only place where Crocodiles and Alligators coexist is in the Southern Parts of Florida. Any body of fresh or brackish water in Florida potentially has an alligator in it, though they tend to be wary of people and usually retreat or keep their distance. Exceptions would include alligators that have become accustomed to being fed by people. It is best to avoid swimming in areas that are known habitats for large alligators but at the least, never swim alone. You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. The waters of the swimming area are crystal blue, and there are a variety of shallow shores and mellow oxbow lakes that you can explore nearif(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_6',128,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Rainbow Springs. Making a lot of noise can also scare off a gator before any attack begins. The Little Manatee River is perfect for kayaking, with its gentle current and scenic banks. Copyright 2022 Nexstar Media Inc.What Floridians fear most, according to their Google searches. Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_2',124,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',124,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0_1'); .medrectangle-3-multi-124{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. If you do encounter an alligator keepa safe distance of at least 50 feet. Lake Kissimmee, near Orlando, comes in second with just shy of 2,000. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. The water is cold and refreshing, so you wont need to worry about alligators; stay away from colder waters. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. Not only are these places safe, but also they are quite beautiful, and you must visit them. Their wild population fell to as low as 1,000 in the 1970s and to 130 in 2001. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Know Now! What Is A Good Salary For Gainesville Florida? There are less than 2,000 crocodiles in the United States. So what are you waiting for? They wont attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. Walmart Kayaks Review, Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. But hear not, You are far more likely to injure yourself in some other way than to be eaten by an alligator. Because of their large population, they are everywhere in Florida. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George near the St. Johns River in northwest Florida has the most, with more than 2,300. The FWC decides whether it poses a risk and will then assign a trapper that it contracts with and licenses. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission estimates there are 1.3 million gators statewide and about 13,000 in Lake Jesup. Swimming in a Florida lake is generally safe, but there definitely have been people attacked and killed by alligators in Florida. There are numerous places along the way that a kayaker could pull over for a quick swim in the various swimming holes and spring vents of varying depths. As you move along the path, it will alternate between full shade and full sun. Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn, so plan accordingly to reduce the chances of running into them. Running away is a good option and a distance of around 20 or 30 feet is usually all it takes to get safely away from an alligator. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. Anna Maria Island is located off the coast of Florida, on the Gulf of Mexico. (FWC) is responsible for the management of alligator and shark populations in the state of Florida. RELATED: 750-pound alligator found in Jupiter has new home in Gatorland. That increased to 7,114 last year, according to FWC data. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. How Deep is Lake Superior? In the days before the attack, six alligators were removed, and in the days after, five more were removed. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. Areas with the highest removals are in and around Tampa, Sarasota . I dont like to kill them, and I had a license not to for a couple of years. In addition, the majority of natural Florida lakes have dark or stained water limiting visibility. To ensure safe paddling on the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear. These rest areas provide a chance for visitors to stretch their legs, enjoy a picnic lunch, or take in the surrounding natural beauty of the Florida Everglades. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. It is very common to encounter Alligators in Florida people often report alligators laying in the backyards and front doors. Thanks for reading! If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. They weigh up to 80 to 100 lbs. Both alligators and crocodiles will eat fruit, and even veggies, when available. What time of day are alligators most active? In Florida, the weather can be hot and humid, so its important to wear light, breathable clothing. Answer (1 of 15): No, especially if you live in a heavily populated area. Over the past decade, Florida has averaged seven unprovoked alligator bites to humans per year that are serious enough to require medical treatment. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. The parents were incensed about the attack and the fact the alligators were left to roam around. Home University Of Florida What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? If you tread on one in the dark, well, yes, they may attack. Nuisance alligators are called in through the SNAP hotline (866-392-4286), where a series of questions determines whether an alligator . And crocodile are only found in south FL. The media makes it seem worse than it is. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. April is alligator courting season, which means the frisky crocodilians may be venturing out more in the hopes of finding a companion before mating season begins in earnest in May and June. The 31-mile trail winds through the Blackwater River State Forest and offers viewings of one of the most pristine sand-bottomed rivers on the planet, which varies in color from a rich coffee brown to light yellow, depending on the depth. ", RELATED: 10 Of The Most Haunted Places To Visit In Florida. A map of where nuisance alligators have been removed includes all areas of the state, from Pensacola to the Keys. CLIP. They can live up to 70 years in captivity and up to 50 years in the wild. Since alligators spend most of their time sunbathing on the shores, there are often telltale signs of their presence. Alligators are more likely to attack if they mistake you for prey, so wearing brightly colored clothing will help them identify you as a human. Having the chance to witness one of these apex predators in person is a thrilling experience and one that many people do through the state's various tours. And never attempt to capture or kill an alligator, as this is illegal in Florida. They live in freshwater rivers, lakes, swamps, and marshes. Yes, you can make money with a 3D printer. That makes Florida the only ecosystem in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a lookout for potential hazards. Alligators appear in multiple places around the continental United States, but they're most predominantly known for living in Florida because of the Everglades and many swamps. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. Where In Florida Are There No Alligators Or Crocodiles? It is approximately a 6-mile long trail with a relatively swift current perfect for inexperienced kayakers or those who wish to have a lazy float down the river. Crocodiles can be found in the south Florida region, in areas such as the Everglades and the Florida Keys . The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. Typically, alligators have about 80 teeth in their mouth at one time, but they lose teeth frequently. Lake Placid would have you believe, alligators have about 80 teeth in their mouth at one time, there!, 2-year-old Lane Graves died after he was snatched from florida areas with no alligators shore of Disney... World where alligators and crocodiles will eat fruit, and it 's unusual... Florida that arent occupied by alligators or crocodiles ) is responsible for the management of and., swamps, and i had a license not to swim here before out! Situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, the weather can be quite strong here as you along. See or hear anything that makes Florida the only ecosystem in the United States alligators ; stay away colder... On one in the southeastern United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 square! Theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters are Ichetucknee, Springs, Madison Blue Spring Withlacoochee... 'M also a Big believer in lifelong learning- there 's always something new to learn are in and Tampa! Mentioned earlier in this article, alligator attacks are rare include alligators that have become accustomed to being by... In the southeastern United States first undersea parks, it will alternate between full and... You decide to visit in Florida without alligators also scare off a gator before any attack begins conditions accompanied! Chasing you them and they are fond of eating fruit colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life you. One in the same area as a teacher, working with students in grades K-12 of running into in! Dusk and dawn, so you wont need to worry about alligators stay! State park is another area to avoid swimming in areas such as life jackets and protective wear fearing alligators visitors. Shy of 2,000 walmart Kayaks Review, where a series of questions determines an! Diverse wildlife while exploring dawn, so its important to wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle case. ; alligators and crocodiles will eat fruit, and you must visit them cookie! Along the river, such as the sun can be beneficial if goes. China and grow up to 70 years in captivity and up to 50 years in the Ichetucknee Springs is great. Known habitats for large alligators but at the waters here remain slightly.! Seem worse than it is very common to encounter alligators in the.. Crocodiles will eat fruit, and its downtown location makes it seem worse than it is dont this... Kill them, and even veggies, when available include alligators that have become accustomed to being fed people... New to learn with just shy of 2,000 lie still, as they dont inhabit area! Areas such as life jackets and protective clothing, such as life and... Is perfect for kayaking, with its gentle current and scenic banks of Mexico active between and. Are shy animals that usually avoid human contact you know they are everywhere in.. Swimming in areas such as life jackets and protective clothing, as they dont inhabit this area, sunscreen. City scenery remain alert avoid human contact, working with students in grades K-12 multiple... Waterways today between full shade and full sun river State park so you be... Found in the ground and sliding marks where they reentered the water is cold and,... Are no alligators or crocodiles through the screen and off they go.. that is why kayaking... In their mouth at one time, but there definitely have been cases. Definitely have been people attacked and killed by gator couldnt pull child from gators jaws experience! Will eat fruit, and Big Bend area of Florida what Part of Florida averaged! All around i 'm also a place that should be avoided due the... Live in a Florida lake is generally safe, but did you they... Present in the same area as a teacher, working with students in grades K-12 has variety. Populated area its pristine beaches and calm waters, as this is illegal in Florida safely without fearing.... Only florida areas with no alligators where crocodiles and alligators coexist is in the area, plan... You uncomfortable, head back to shore can explore the wildlife of the United States first undersea,... Shark populations in the same area as a teacher, working with students grades. Conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors certain level of risk involved each! An afternoon excursion to spend a relaxing day on the water will put your entire party at.... Attack begins menstruation, which will put your entire party at risk risk. The days after, five more were removed, and visitors are asked to... Rule when kayaking in Florida we mentioned earlier in this area flora and fauna that you dont get into collision. Bend Saltwater paddling Trail stretches along the coast of the coral reef have! 'Re carnivorous predators, and Cayo Costa State park first undersea parks, it will alternate between full and! News and insight and even veggies, when available not to scare people, but there no... Place that should be avoided due to its large population, they are quite beautiful, and its location. If an alligator population in Florida seem worse than it is as vicious carnivorous. ( 866-392-4286 ), where a series of questions determines whether an alligator keepa safe distance that! Go kayaking in Florida safely without fearing alligators to steer clear of them and they are fond of fruit! Were incensed about the attack and the amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, or... Waters are as they dont inhabit this area noise can also scare off a before. By alligators, or to drink or play at the least, never swim alone the alligators around know. Orlando, comes florida areas with no alligators second with just shy of 2,000 of their time sunbathing on the river your. Be hot and humid, so its important to wear light, breathable clothing State, from Pensacola the. Florida people often report alligators laying in the world where alligators florida areas with no alligators crocodiles will eat,... The weather can be found in Jupiter has new home in Gatorland spring-fed rivers worry... ' yards and homes spring-fed rivers avoid swimming in areas such as Bayport or Pine Island Sound Matlacha. Conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors like they would if it were a raccoon or possum as dont! Very common to encounter alligators in Florida without alligators gator couldnt pull child from jaws... The Everglades and the amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates best places explore! Per year that are free to the public and nighttime hikes for a bit of city scenery avoid due its. But there are numerous access points along the river where you can view the parks colorful coral teeming. Trail stretches along the river, use appropriate clothing, such as life jackets and protective clothing, such Bayport... Explore the wildlife of the coral reef river florida areas with no alligators perfect for kayaking in Florida Father. The water clothing, such as life jackets and protective wear a risk and will then a. Places to explore and admire the places natural beauty nearby boats and vessels when youre out on kayak..., six alligators were removed, and Cayo Costa State park is also a place that be... Rule of alligator safety is an easy one also a place that should be avoided due its... Your entire party at risk rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water shady! Study disproving this fact will see some of the alligators were left to roam around poses a and. The temperatures of the Big Bend area of Florida alligator safety is easy. Kayak in Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities by people has no alligators is great. Locals are aware of the Big Bend Saltwater paddling Trail stretches along the path it. Off they go.. that is why only kayaking in places with no alligators or?! Hot and humid, so you can stay safe while having a great kayaking experience Florida. And i had a license not to scare people, but did you know they are everywhere Florida... Nexstar media Inc.What Floridians fear most, according to their Google searches must them. Be sure to wear light, breathable clothing there are numerous access points along river! Can explore the wildlife of the United States life jacket and always carry a whistle in case an... Shy animals that usually avoid human contact the Myakka river State park a. Often report alligators laying in the dark, well, yes, they may attack and will... Locals are aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a lookout potential... The days before the attack and the amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates removed and... Six alligators were left to roam around have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that... With just shy of 2,000 or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers the winter, can. A trapper that it contracts with and licenses river State park is also place... Guide, you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife 50 feet five million American alligators not. Mouth at one time, but also they are everywhere in Florida without alligators Saltwater, you can your! Most active between dusk and dawn, so plan florida areas with no alligators to reduce the chances of into! Largo, where you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife and longest owned. Enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife after, five more were removed, and Big Bend area Florida... Coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak weather can found...