SKIP THE CROWDS

Ready to Paddle Deep Creek?

With your guide’s expertise and your preparation, you’re all set for an incredible adventure on Deep Creek. Book your tour today and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of this stunning waterway.

Getting to the Launch

The only launch point for Deep Creek is located under the State Road 207 bridge, just west of the State Road 206 intersection. This spot provides convenient access to the serene waters of Deep Creek, allowing you to embark on your adventure with ease.

Coming north or west from St Augustine:
Be prepared for a u-turn after the SR 207 bridge over Deep Creek. Coming from North St Augustine or from South St Augustine it is about 12 miles past 1-95 on SR 206 or 207, where the two roads intersect.

Coming south from Palatka:
After making the u-turn, be prepared for an inconspicuous dirt driveway in the right turn lane before the light at the 206 intersection just after the SR 207 bridge over Deep Creek. There is a small brown county boat ramp sign that marks the hard to find access point to our favorite kayak near St Augustine, FL.

What to Bring

What Your Guide Provides and What You Need to Bring

Your guide is dedicated to ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable trip on Deep Creek. Here’s what you can expect them to provide, and what you should bring along:

What Your Guide Will Provide:

• Kayak or SUP: If you don’t have your own, your guide can provide a high-quality kayak or SUP.
• Paddle and Personal Flotation Device (PFD): Safety gear, including paddles and PFDs for all participants.
• Dry Bag: To keep your key fobs dry during the trip.
• Emergency Kit: A comprehensive kit including a first-aid kit, whistle, flashlight, and other safety items.
• Local Knowledge and Expertise: Your guide will share insights about the local ecosystem, wildlife, and history of the area, enhancing your experience.
• Route Planning and Navigation: Detailed planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable paddle, taking into account tides and weather conditions.

What You Need to Bring:

• Water Shoes: Shoes you don’t mind getting wet that will stay on your feet.
• Sunscreen and Hat: Protect yourself from the Florida sun.
• Waterproof Bag: Ziplock backs work great as dry bags to keep your valuables and snacks dry during the trip.
• Organic Bug Spray: The backwaters can have pesky insects, so come prepared.
• Reusable Bottle: Stay hydrated and energized throughout the trip.
• Personal Comfort Items: Such as snacks, PFD, or extra layers depending on the weather.

Be Prepared

Safety is paramount when exploring Deep Creek. Here are some important tips to ensure a smooth and secure adventure:

• NO FLIP-FLOPS OR BARE FEET
• Never Paddle Alone: Always go with at least one other person.
• Leave a Float Plan: Inform a friend or loved one about your trip details and expected return time.
• Prepare for Emergencies: Know basic first aid and carry a communication device.
• Hire a Guide: The best advice is to hire a local guide who knows the area well. All qualified and able guides offering this kayak experience are listed on our website.

About Deep Creek Paddles

Deep Creek Paddles is a collaborative marketing website created by the members of the GeoTrippin Adventure Consortium. We are dedicated to connecting you with the best local guides and outfitters to ensure a memorable and safe kayaking experience. This website is not a business on its own but a platform to showcase the top professionals in the area.

Don’t waste your time looking elsewhere – all the best guides and outfitters are listed here. If you know a guide who isn’t listed, encourage them to join our friendly and collaborative community.

Book Your Adventure

Ready to paddle Deep Creek? Booking is easy:

1. Browse Our Guides: Explore the profiles of our expert guides listed on the site.
2. Choose Your Tour: Select the tour that best fits your interests and skill level.
3. Book Online: Use our simple booking system to secure your spot.

Contact Us:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: (904) 701-3272

Rentals are discouraged but may be permitted for experienced paddlers under the following conditions:

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✅ Option 1: Rentals Led by a Qualified Group Leader

One individual must:

• Hold an ACA Instructor Certification or equivalent emergency response certification, and
• Possess a valid Florida Boater Safety ID

This leader accepts full responsibility for all kayaks rented and must be prepared to lead the group safely, including navigating hazards and responding to emergencies.

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✅ Option 2: No Qualified Leader Present

Rentals may still be approved if every participant truthfully attests to having received prior instruction on all required safety topics listed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

If any participant cannot truthfully attest to all items, a safety course must be completed prior to rental. The livery can provide:

• A basic safety overview and discussion of local hazards
• Guidance on float plan creation
• Instructions on any special use guidelines

However, these do not substitute for required prior knowledge or formal paddling raining. A combination of online training and hands-on instruction is recommended.

Courses are available at Deep Creek or through other approved platforms suited to your skill level and paddling goals.

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📝 Florida FWC Required Paddlecraft Safety Instruction Checklist

Each participant must confirm they already understand the following topics before signing the FWC attestation:

1. Operator Responsibility: Avoiding reckless or negligent operation; understanding the effects of alcohol, drugs, and fatigue.
2. Navigation Rules: Keeping lookout, maintaining safe speed, yielding properly, and following right-of-way laws.
3. Waterway Markers & Aids to Navigation
4. Weather & Water Conditions: Recognizing changing conditions and how to respond.
5. Paddlecraft Characteristics: How the vessel steers, stops, and behaves in water.
6. Emergency Procedures: What to do if capsized, taking on water, or falling overboard.
7. Visibility Risks: Understanding how to be seen and how to spot other vessels.
8. Safety Equipment: Location and correct use of PFDs and essential gear.
9. Environmental Awareness: Protecting manatees and local ecosystems.
10. Local Waterway Hazards: Including shallow areas, restricted zones, and boat traffic.
11. Float Plans: Why and how to inform someone of your trip details.
12. Special Use Guidelines: Including use in Intracoastal Waterway channels, trailering, and extended trips.

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🛑 Rentals will not proceed if any participant lacks this knowledge or fails to complete training as required by law.