Paddling 3 Sisters, Hunter Spring, and Kings Bay

First, a shout out to Elijah for posting "A Beginner's Guide To Kayaking" and being awarded the BSA Kayaking merit badge. Congratulations! I hope you might have an opportunity to paddle the Crystal River in Florida! Elijah's guide is available on the "Resources" page also.

Florida offers many opportunities for paddlers. The Crystal River at Kings Bay is one such place. 3 Sisters and Hunter Spring are located nearby and offer wonderful experiences. Pete’s Pier Marina is uniquely situated between the two with reasonable parking and launch fees. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating. Arriving early presents the greatest probability you might paddle to the springs before others and experience the serenity before the crowds arrive.

3 Sisters Spring might be on your bucket list and if so don’t miss it. Videos on YouTube don’t do the experience justice. The water remains a constant, slightly chilly 72 - 73°F year round and offers an opportunity for a refreshing swim, but don’t expect to tie up or anchor your paddle craft inside the Spring. It is prohibited as a conservation measure to ensure the flora and fauna inside the spring is conserved. Instead, do so outside and swim into the spring.

Hunter Spring Park on the other side of Pete’s Pier Marina has a beach and swimming area and a paddle craft launch area. Spend time at the park swimming and picnicing and otherwise enjoying your time there.

Sea and wildlife are present in abundance. Both springs include opportunities to observe sea and wildlife. There are islands in Kings Bay designated as wildlife refuges with opportunities for observing wildlife also. You might spot fish like Sheepshead, Redfish, Snook, Gag Grouper, and Trout. You might also spot wildlife like river otters, black bear, bobcats, or even manatee!

One can easily spend the entire day paddling and experiencing the Kings Bay area. Be aware of the potential of wake since you’ll share the water with motorboats also. There are signs in some places advising paddle craft to stay to one side allowing motorboats to navigate deeper waters.