There’s something special about summertime in Jackson County. Maybe it’s the way the morning mist rises off the water, or how the sun dances through the trees as you paddle your way down a glassy spring. Whatever it is, there’s no doubt we’re lucky to have some of the most beautiful freshwater springs in the Florida Panhandle— perfect spots to paddle, right here in our own backyard.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just looking for a weekend escape, Jackson County’s springs offer all the ingredients for a perfect day on the water: adventure, relaxation, and a whole lot of Florida sunshine.
Merritt’s Mill Pond: A Four-Mile Aquatic Wonderland
Just east of Marianna sits Merritt’s Mill Pond—a historic dam-created reservoir stretching nearly four miles, covering 202 acres. Fed by the first-magnitude Jackson Blue Spring and nearly a dozen smaller springs, it’s a paddler’s dream.
- Jackson Blue Springs pumps out roughly 70-76 million gallons of crystal-clear water daily, fueling both the Mill Pond and Spring Creek.
- Within the Mill Pond are at least six named springs and caves—Shangri La, Twin Caves, Hole-in-the-Wall, Gator Hole, Heidi Hole, and Indian Washtub. A boardwalk project is currently underway to connect Blue Springs to Shangri La, allowing for public access to the space. Additionally, there are small docks located on the Mill Pond, and they are intended for cave divers entering or exiting the cave. Please be respectful and give divers first access to these spaces.
- Anglers take note: the pond once held the state (and briefly the world) record for redear sunfish at 4.86 pounds and still delivers trophy bass and shellcracker action.
Visitors can launch from Hunter Fish Camp, a public boat landing; Florida Caverns RV Resort, a private landing with a fee; and Jackson Blue Springs, which has an access fee and is only for kayak launches. Don’t have a kayak or boat? No problem, we’ve got you covered! Kayak rentals and tours for the Mill Pond are available at Jackson Blue Springs and Florida Caverns RV Resort. If you’d like a guided tour, book today with Get Up and Go Kayaking, and enjoy a paddle in their clear bottom kayaks to see the world below you. Kayak and tube rentals are also available through Bear Paw Adventures and Chipola River Adventures.
Chipola River: Paddle to Caves, Springs, & an Old Florida Escape
If you’ve never spent a day on the Chipola River, you’re missing out on one of Jackson County’s best-kept secrets. It’s the kind of place that reminds you just how wild and beautiful our corner of Florida really is. Fed by over 60 natural springs, the Chipola River flows gently through Jackson, Calhoun, and Gulf counties, eventually emptying into the mysterious Dead Lakes near Wewahitchka. Along the way, it winds past limestone bluffs and shaded banks, with hidden springs tucked along the route just waiting to be discovered.
As you make your way downstream, keep an eye out for some of the river’s most memorable stops. First up is Baltzell Spring, located just north of Florida Caverns State Park—a beautiful, clear spring that’s perfect for a quick break or a peaceful float. Please note, surrounding the spring is private property. Please respect the “No Trespassing” signs. A little farther along, you’ll come across The Ovens—a handful of shallow caves in the limestone bank. They’re easy to miss if you’re not paying attention, but well worth the pause. You can wade up and step inside; they’re just big enough for a flashlight and a little imagination.
Continuing south down the Chipola River, you’ll reach Maund Spring, tucked off a narrow run just below the Hinson Conservation and Recreation Area. The water here is crystal-clear and inviting—great for stretching your legs or enjoying a quiet picnic in the shade. Just past Maund Spring is where Spring Creek flows into the Chipola, and during the summer months, this area fills with tubers and kayakers enjoying the gentle current. It’s a good idea to slow down here, share the water, and make way for boaters coming through. If you’re traveling in a group, be sure to stay to one side and keep the waterway open—river courtesy goes a long way.
Getting on the Water
If you’re new to the river or planning a day trip, here are a few local favorites to launch from:
- Christoff Landing
- Florida Caverns State Park
- Yancey Bridge on Caverns Road, not far from Citizen’s Lodge
- Gateway Overlook, right off Highway 90 across from Rivertown Community Church
- Hinson Conservation and Recreation Area
- Magnolia Landing
- Peacock Bridge on Highway 278
A great full-day trip is the 10-mile paddle from Yancey Bridge to Magnolia Landing. It takes you through quiet stretches of spring-fed water, perfect for spotting turtles, herons, and the occasional otter if you’re lucky.
Like much of Florida’s natural water, the Chipola is also home to wildlife—including snakes and alligators. They tend to mind their own business, but it’s always smart to stay aware and give them space.
Before you launch, make sure to bring a life jacket (Florida law requires one per person) and a whistle. Don’t forget to pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and a dry bag for your phone or keys—especially if you’re planning to stop and explore a few springs along the way.