Outdoor enthusiasts say Jackson County has some of Florida’s most beautiful paddling trails. There are several places to explore, such as Merritt’s Mill Pond, Compass Lake, Round Lake, Lake Seminole, Ocheesee Pond, and Upper Chipola River.
Chipola River
The Chipola River Canoe Trail is part of Florida’s statewide system of Greenways and Trails. The start of the canoe trail is at Florida Caverns State Park, close to the city of Marianna, where visitors can experience a network of caves and limestone formations made by constant droplets of mineral water. The trail continues through river swamps and hardwood forests. Alligators, turtles and beavers can be seen swimming through the cool waters or sunning themselves along the warm banks.
Florida Caverns State Park
The Upper Chipola River at Christoff Landing was recently designated as the state’s 51st paddling trail by the Office of Greenways & Trails. The 4.5 mile picturesque paddle will guarantee to view wildlife along the winding water to Florida Caverns State Park.
Hinson Conservation and Recreation Area
This magnificent outdoor paradise was once the private farm of the Hinson family, which generously made the property available for state purchase.
Now managed by the City of Marianna, the Hinson Conservation & Recreation Area features a canoe and kayak launch, and a picnic area overlooking the Chipola River. The 226-acre park is home to an array of natural features, including a high limestone outcrop, a karst window, sinkholes, and a small natural spring.