HIGH SPRINGS EVENTS FIELD GUIDE
Moonlit BBQ and Glowing Downriver: An After‑Hours Paddle to Poe Springs
A 3+ hour Anderson's Outdoor Adventures evening that pairs a BBQ dinner and mocktails with a shuttled, glow-decorated downriver paddle finishing at Poe Springs.
Moonlit BBQ and Glowing Downriver: An After‑Hours Paddle to Poe Springs.
Embark on a magical nighttime adventure along the Santa Fe River: a riverside BBQ followed by a shuttled launch, glow-decorated watercraft, and a moonlit paddle that threads into the luminous bowl of Poe Springs. The trip blends the hush of a nocturnal river with after-hours access to the spring, creating an intimate, dreamlike outing.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
After‑hours entry to Poe Springs
This excursion includes after-hours access to Poe Springs, letting participants experience the spring and river at night when the park is otherwise closed to typical daytime traffic.
Decorate yourself and your craft
Before launch you and your rented watercraft are encouraged to decorate with glow sticks and bracelets provided or brought along, turning the flotilla into a luminous procession on the river.
Moonlit downriver tranquility into Poe Spring
Under the moon you paddle downriver, enjoying the quiet ripples and nocturnal atmosphere as the group moves toward the glowing Poe Spring for a final beaching at the Poe Springs Boat Ramp.
What the day feels like
What the evening feels like
The evening unfolds as a relaxed sequence: check-in and a BBQ at Low & Slow *Almost*-Bar & Grill, a short shuttle upriver to the 27 Ramp, time to adorn crafts with glow, then a guided downriver paddle by moonlight that culminates with a glowing approach into Poe Spring and a return at the Poe Springs Boat Ramp.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this evening works for — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Check-in occurs at 28000 High Springs, FL 32643 (Low & Slow *Almost*-Bar & Grill) with a 7pm check-in noted in the itinerary; the overall outing runs 3+ hours and includes a shuttle to the 27 Ramp and a downriver finish at Poe Springs Boat Ramp.
Bring insect repellent, water, glow sticks/bracelets, a headlamp, a camera, and a change of clothes with a towel.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How much experience is required for this Adventure?
None. This Adventure is considered Novice Level.
Are dogs allowed?
AOA is 100% pet friendly. They are allowed in/on the vessel and shuttle. But remember that most parks have their own rules on dogs.
Will I get wet?
Yes. Almost every time.
Are there alligators?
Yes. Any body of water in Florida has very large potential for alligators to be present. On the Santa Fe River it is not uncommon to see alligators of less than 6' in length; do not try to get close or harass them.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes. Life Jackets (Personal Floatation Vests) and paddles are provided with each rental.