Photo: Patrick Nichols Canoe or Kayak Way Down Upon the Suwannee; Georgia and Florida Highlights:
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Trip Number: 09230A Price: $745 Deposit: $100 Capacity: 14 Leader:
The Trip  Photo: Patrick Nichols Created in 1937, Okefenokee Refuge covers more than 600 square miles and contains nearly 354,000 acres of designated wilderness. A number of fresh water springs feed the refuge, which in turn gives birth to two well-known rivers, the Suwannee and the St. Marys. Though pure and clean, the refuge's waters are dark due to the tannic acid in decaying vegetation. Species abundance is breathtaking: black bears, otters, sandhill cranes, ospreys, alligators, bald eagles, yellow-fringed orchids, and pitcher plants all find homes in the Okefenokee. The Suwannee runs unbridled from Fargo to the Gulf of Mexico for more than 200 miles. With the state's highest protection, it is one of the cleanest waterways in the U.S. It’s no wonder many have returned here again and again to paddle this dark mysterious water.
It is suggested that participants make reservations to stay the night before the trip begins at the campground at the Canoe Outpost in the Park. There is a fee for the shuttle and the campground not included in the trip price. The leader will reserve a camping area at the outpost for participants that plan to arrive a day early. Our total trip will be 65 miles, starting from the edge of the Okefenokee Swamp, crossing into Florida, and ending at the Sprit of the Suwannee Music Park.  Photo: Patrick Nichols Day 1: Our adventure starts from the Spirit of Suwannee Music Park (near Live Oak, Florida ) at 9 a.m. We board our shuttle to travel to the put-in in Fargo, Georgia. We expect to arrive at the put-in at noon. As we launch our boats, the leaders will talk about what you can expect from the river and help you get comfortable with your boat. Today offers us a fantastic backdrop of twisted tupelo, ancient cypress, live oak and perhaps a few swamp inhabitants. After paddling a few hours we will take a break for a stretch and a swim. With our tents set up our first night on the river will be spent staring at the stars by the campfire. Each night you can expect a new and beautiful primitive campsite next to the playful river. Day 2: After a spectacular sunrise we break camp. The Suwannee is flat and smooth on the section we are paddling. Depending on the water level it may bounce a bit. As we drift down river, subtle changes occur. The riverbanks become steeper and white sand beaches seem to be around each bend. Each day we stop for lunch, a swim and take time to explore. Day 3: Today is our first sign of civilizations as we float under the Highway 6 bridge. This quickly fades as we paddle down river. Soon a seemingly magical limestone wall appears on river left. Little waterfalls and crystalline droplets seep from the stone and drop to the black water below. Day 4: Whitewater! A long morning paddle through deeper water with steeper banks drops us at the most extraordinary location on the river. Big Shoals is a where the reef that created Florida protrudes to the surface. Here the river is turned into a bouncy class III rapid. Our camp is on the portage on river left. Time to swim, play and hike. A secret spring nearby creates a waterfall and a great place to get a shower. It is easy to drift off to sleep with the visions from the day and the sound of Big Shoals in the distance.  Photo: Patrick Nichols Day 5: After we paddle away from our camp, we have few small shoals to shoot as we make our way into the historic town of White Springs. Today lunch is a classic southern buffet at the Teleford Hotel. Then, we will drift a short distance to the Stephen Foster Cultural Center. This state park was donated by a group of Steven Foster music enthusiasts. It is unique in many ways, from a carillon tower to a gift shop filled with locally made folk art and food. Day 6: Fun, easy day with lots of drifting, dreaming, and picture taking. Higher banks begin to form, remnants of the ancient coral reef that once stood here. Fossilized sea fans, brain coral, and sea biscuits can be found at every turn. Day 7: Today we stop by the Suwannee Springs for a dip. We will arrive at the Canoe Outpost by noon. The leaders will make every reasonable effort to meet the goals outlined in the itinerary. Please keep in mind that weather or other conditions beyond our control may cause us to modify the itinerary in order to ensure the safety and well being of the group. Getting There The closest airport is Jacksonville. It would be best to carpool with other participants. Rental cars and public transportation are available from the airport. If you are coming in to Orlando, it is about 3.5 hour drive to the put in.
The leaders will prepare all meals, but everyone is expected to help clean up. Meals included in the trip fee begin with lunch on the first day and end with breakfast on the last day. Meals served on the trip will reflect local cuisine. Count on something chocolate for dessert. Our backcountry accommodations will be primitive.
Some canoeing experience would make your trip more fun. If you have not canoed recently, take some time to get some practice. The leader is an experienced canoe and kayak instructor. Help and instruction along the way is always included. As in any outdoor activity you will enjoy more it if you are healthy and fit. You do not need great deal of experience for this trip (be familiar with a canoe and how to paddle). A willingness to learn and a positive attitude will get you there.
A detailed equipment list will be provided to registered participants.
Conservation As the Southeast grows, water usage grows. We are entering a new decade of demand on our ever-shrinking water supply. We will discuss topics such as: Who owns the water how will it be best allocated?
See the How to Apply for an Outing section for more details on registering for this trip and details about our Reservation and Cancellation Policy. The payment of a deposit does not confirm you as a member on the trip. Participants must be approved by the trip leader. After signing up for this trip, you will be sent a confirmation packet containing approval materials (Participant Approval Questionnaire, Medical Form, Liability Release Form). Each applicant (including those on the waitlist) must fill out these forms and promptly mail them to the trip leader. The leader will review the approval materials and notify you of your acceptance in a timely manner.
Leader:
General Notes About Sierra Club Trips
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Patrick Nichols, an outdoor specialist by trade, is trained by the Red Cross and American Canoe Association in canoeing and coastal kayaking. He has taught kayaking, canoeing, and backpacking for 25 years and is a wilderness first responder.