GAINESVILLE GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Dampier's Landing Paddle: Glide the Ichetucknee from Dampier’s Landing to Head Spring
A flexible, self-paced paddle from the South Entrance of Ichetucknee Springs State Park—choose a SUP, kayak, or canoe, go upstream toward Head Spring, then drift back on the river’s gentle current.
Dampier's Landing Paddle: Glide the Ichetucknee from Dampier’s Landing to Head Spring.
Set out from Dampier’s Landing on the Ichetucknee River, launching from the park’s south entrance and choosing between stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, or canoes. Paddle upstream as far as you like—up to about 2.75 miles toward Head Spring—then turn and enjoy an easy return aided by a typically gentle current.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Multiple craft for all paddling styles
Stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes are available for this trip, letting you pick the craft that suits your comfort level and the way you want to experience the river.
A gentle current that carries you home
Paddle upstream at your own pace, then relax on the downstream section where the current—typically between 1 and 3 mph—makes the return leg easy and restorative.
Upstream to Head Spring, turnaround at will
Launch at Dampier’s Landing and head upstream toward the picturesque Head Spring; you can go as far as you want (up to the route limit) before turning back for a leisurely exit at the landing.
What the day feels like
What the paddle feels like
The outing is deliberately flexible: a steady upstream push where you set the distance, then a relaxed downstream drift. Launch and return at Dampier’s Landing, tracing the clear, slow-moving Ichetucknee while choosing a pace and craft that fit your day.
THE CHOICE
Multiple craft for all paddling styles
Stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes are available for this trip, letting you pick the craft that suits your comfort level and the way you want to experience the river.
THE RIVER
A gentle current that carries you home
Paddle upstream at your own pace, then relax on the downstream section where the current—typically between 1 and 3 mph—makes the return leg easy and restorative.
THE ROUTE
Upstream to Head Spring, turnaround at will
Launch at Dampier’s Landing and head upstream toward the picturesque Head Spring; you can go as far as you want (up to the route limit) before turning back for a leisurely exit at the landing.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits (and who should plan otherwise).
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring your car keys to check in; staff will hold keys during your paddle. You must bring your driver’s license to complete the waiver; a license is required and staff will not accept a substitute in lieu of keys.
Check in at the park window at the South Entrance; present keys and your driver’s license as part of the waiver and check-in process.
Plan to leave prohibited items off the river—alcohol, nicotine products, disposable plastic items, coolers, food, speakers, water guns, and pets are not allowed—and adhere to park rules throughout your visit.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What craft are available for the paddle?
Stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes are available for this trip.
How far can I paddle upstream?
You can paddle upstream as far as you want toward Head Spring—up to about 2.75 miles—then turn around for the downstream return.
How long does the trip take?
The outing typically takes around 1.5 to 5 hours, depending on how far upstream you paddle and your pace.
Will someone hold my car keys while I paddle?
Yes—staff will hold your car keys during your paddle; bring them when you check in at the window.
What identification do I need to check in?
Bring your driver’s license to complete the waiver at check-in.
Can I bring food, coolers, pets, or speakers?
No—food, coolers, pets, speakers, alcohol, nicotine products, disposable plastic items, and water guns are not allowed on the river; please adhere to park rules.