There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. It's not all that surprising, given how well-kept the waters are. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. Serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida, but if you are concerned about an alligator, call FWC's toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286. According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. Areas with the highest removals are in and around Tampa, Sarasota . Baby alligators, in particular, are the most at risk. Eight major crystal-clear springs join the Ichetucknee River. Do alligators roam the streets in Florida? Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. A map of where nuisance alligators have been removed includes all areas of the state, from Pensacola to the Keys. Use common sense: If there is any doubt about whether its safe to paddle in an area, dont do it. Hey there kayak lovers! 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. Twenty five of those attacks have been fatal. In an article published in the Washington Post, it was reported that the park had more than 200 alligators removed between 2006 and 2015. Thats because of a little bug called Naegleria fowleri, a type of of amoeba that can cause a severe infection. National Geographic did an entire study disproving this fact. over a year ago. Initially, scientists thought this was a practice specific to the reptiles raised in captivity, but studies have been conducted on wild alligators as well. Occasionally, Key West gets American Crocodiles. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. One also doesn't need to go to Florida to see the gators as they live all through the South. They can live up to 70 years in captivity and up to 50 years in the wild. With that being said, alligators aren't even the largest of their kind - there are crocodiles that can get even bigger than that, as well. We help our readers find the best kayaks and water related equipment to help you have the best time of your life whenever you are engaging in water activities. To an alligator, a splash potentially means a food source is in the water. But kayakers should be aware of the alligators that inhabit these waterways. Lets look at the seven alligator-free places where you can kayak. Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Pay attention to signage: Many areas that are popular for kayaking, such as state parks and nature preserves, have signage indicating the presence of alligators. While alligators often display territorial behavior, they don't usually have much direct interaction with nearby kayakers. It is approximately a 6-mile long trail with a relatively swift current perfect for inexperienced kayakers or those who wish to have a lazy float down the river. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. I'm also a big believer in lifelong learning- there's always something new to learn! The waters of the swimming area are crystal blue, and there are a variety of shallow shores and mellow oxbow lakes that you can explore nearif(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_6',128,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Rainbow Springs. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. The state park is enormous. American crocodiles are not found in Orlando but are found in South Florida, the Caribbean, Southern Mexico and Central America. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. But Allogators and their croc relatives are Archosaurs - a clade that split off from lizards and other reptiles in the Late Permian. This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. Can we use lake water for the Shower and the Hot tub? There are four rest areas along Alligator Alley, two in each direction, located at mile markers 35, 48, 63, and 80. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that arent occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? Alligators are shy animals that usually avoid human contact. They live in coastal areas throughout the Caribbean, and occur at the northern end of their range in south Florida. Not surprisingly, alligators are a big draw for visitors to Florida's national parks and Everglades. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. Scientist Brian Switek stated that "crocodilians are capable of breaking down the carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in vegetable matter, so the fruit-eating by these archosaurs could be a nutritional supplement. Along with being apex predators, these incredible animals can also grow to exponentially large sizes. Nevertheless, it is undeniable that these creatures are somewhat monstrous in appearance. And 383 unprovoked bites caused by intentional harassment or handling of an alligator. They weigh up to 80 to 100 lbs. Still, its important to remember youre a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as such. They even like to hang out on golf courses. There have also been a few alligators spotted along this river. Learn More{{/message}}. When people say alligators are all over the place in Florida, they're not lying. It is one of the best things to do near Sarasota and definitely one of the most fun. Here are 15 facts you might not know about Florida alligators. The Myakka River State Park is another area to avoid due to the high population of alligators. Well cover where to go, what safety tips to follow, and where to avoid going due to the fear of Alligators. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission estimates there are 1.3 million gators statewide and about 13,000 in Lake Jesup. Alligators are fascinating creatures, but that doesn't mean we'd be willing to get close to any of the million-plus living in Flordia right now. Alligators make good pets. The freshwater spring-fed rivers are some of the more popular areas in central florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. Copyright 2022 lakeaccess.org - Sitemap. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a sea kayakers dream. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. There are gators in every part of Louisiana. Can Dogs Go On Inflatable Kayaks Without Them Breaking? The state has one million wild alligators and another million on alligator farms. The nuisance alligator was brought under control by officer Manuel Orol in the Kendall area on Feb . According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most more than 2,300. Use your common sense and if you see or hear anything that makes you uncomfortable, head back to shore. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. This includes not just the outskirts, but right in the center of the city! This guide will provide you with all the information you need to find the best places to enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any alligators. None of those are conducive to alligator habitats. And never attempt to capture or kill an alligator, as this is illegal in Florida. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. However, that doesn't stop people from referring to them as such, and why wouldn't they? Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. The parents were incensed about the attack and the fact the alligators were left to roam around. It's also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. Having the chance to witness one of these apex predators in person is a thrilling experience and one that many people do through the state's various tours. Step-By-Step Guide, Are Walmart Kayaks Any Good? The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. According to reports and recent studies, there have been 22 Alligators attacks in Florida from 1999 to 2021. FunOutdoorVentures.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Where do most alligators live in Florida? While alligators can be found throughout the Southeastern U.S., the crocodile footprint in the U.S. is generally limited to South Florida, though they have occasionally been spotted as far north as the Tampa Bay area. Kayaking in bad weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Florida wildlife officials have removed an additional three alligators from a Fort Pierce neighborhood following the fatal attack on a resident earlier this month.. Just after noon on February 20, 85-year-old Gloria Serge was walking her dog near a pond in her retirement community when an 11-foot alligator lunged from the water, snatching at the small animal. After several years of teaching, I transitioned into the world of educational consulting. Since then, it has grown somewhat to 300 by 2017. Be mindful of where they are located at all times. It has 105 mile-long segments that run from the Aucilla River to Yankeetown and offer a bountiful array of marine and birdlife. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. Virtually any body of water can hold alligators. . Unfortunately, there isn't much you can do about an alligator that crawls into your house through the kitchen window. Punch, hit, kick, or attack the eyes of the gator that has sunk its teeth into you. Experience turtle time. These rest areas provide a chance for visitors to stretch their legs, enjoy a picnic lunch, or take in the surrounding natural beauty of the Florida Everglades. Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a lookout for potential hazards. So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. A congregation of alligators by the side of the road in Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida. Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. The species is a living garbage disposal, consuming nearly everything. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! What would happen if you touched strange matter? Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. You should also pack a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. First of all, feeding gators is illegal in Florida, so that's a pretty good reason not to do it. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. Not to scare people, but there are over a million of them and they are all around.. Walmart Kayaks Review, Where to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. With over 200,000 wild alligators calling this park their home, this is one of the best places to see alligators in Florida! Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado. The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. In addition, there are no alligators in the area, so you can enjoy your time without worrying about dangerous wildlife. Florida has over 30,000 Lakes and every single one of these lakes is home to gators so always be careful while walking around Lakes in Florida. There are less than 2,000 crocodiles in the United States. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. A Miami-Dade police officer has been caught on video wrangling an alligator in southern Florida. Thats because alligators can leap up to five feet out of the water to snag their dinner. Some people are far more tempted by freshwater lakes and ponds. There is something for everyone. Leave alligators alone. Canyon Lake Texas: The Most Beautiful Place in Texas. There are not many places in Florida where you can be assured they are alligator-free. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. Besides, you will find plenty of areas to explore and admire the places natural beauty. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Crocodiles can be found in the south Florida region, in areas such as the Everglades and the Florida Keys . Alligators can be found in the area but prefer to keep to the marsh areas where kayakers and others do not paddle. [Whats The Best Method? Thanks for reading! Alligators are more likely to attack if they mistake you for prey, so wearing brightly colored clothing will help them identify you as a human. Their mothers will have returned to the beaches of Fort Myers over a month prior . Police in Florida haul in a large gator on the loose. Notably, they are been naturally increasing their range into parts of Tennessee. It is best to avoid swimming in areas that are known habitats for large alligators but at the least, never swim alone. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? And since alligators are not common in this area, you can paddle without worry. What to do if an alligator is chasing you? Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. Despite what the media and Lake Placid would have you believe, alligators are not naturally aggressive toward humans. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. In fact, since they're cold-blooded, they tend to spend most of their time sunbathing on the swamp's shores. There are seven places in Florida where you can Kayak without having to worry too much about floating past an unhappy alligator. Dont approach to take selfies; dont approach to check if its alive. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. They may be big, but they're surprisingly agile creatures. 3. There are freshwater spring-fed rivers in Central Florida that are free of alligators and sharks. They can also move quickly on land. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. You can rest assured that many in the Sunshine State are home to gators. How Deep is Lake Superior? Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. So they are in Clearwater, but not in saltwater. I dont like to kill them, and I had a license not to for a couple of years. This list was updated and expanded with more facts and information about the alligators of Florida - as well as their closest cousins. They just push through the screen and off they go.. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. The only place where Crocodiles and Alligators coexist is in the Southern Parts of Florida. They live in freshwater rivers, lakes, swamps, and marshes. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. They live in brackish or saltwater areas, and can be found in ponds, coves, and creeks in mangrove swamps. As we mentioned earlier in this article, alligator attacks are rare. My team and I are huge outdoor enthusiasts, and youll find information from RVing, kayaking, snorkeling, and etc. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. With that being said, it's also a good idea to know as much about these powerful and ancient animals as possible - thus, our updated and informative list. In addition, the majority of natural Florida lakes have dark or stained water limiting visibility. Instead, the FWC operates the Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program, where people can report a suspicious gator. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. Homeowners in Clearwater woke up to a massive alligator in their kitchen last night. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. Here, you will find the fourth largest spring in Florida and enjoy paddling along its crystal-clear waters surrounded by wildlife. This kayaking paradise is not a linear water trail. Keep pets away from the area. Dont go near grassy areas that have a swamp or lake nearby as they love to hide in vegetation areas because it provides good camouflage. RELATED: 10 Best Places To Visit In Florida. Even tiny Palm Beach had at least one removed during the same time period when a wayward gator found itself on the beach side of the Intracoastal. There are no alligators in the swimming area, but if you had to kayak further down the river, you would probably come across a couple. Are there alligators everywhere in Florida? Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? Myakka River State Park is one of the best places to see alligators in Florida. Alligators are more likely to attack if they mistake you for prey, so wearing brightly colored clothing will help them identify you as a human. The agency also reports that Florida's population of alligators has increased by nearly 50 . Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. Is it safe to swim in a lake with alligators? According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most- more than 2,300. What city in Florida has the most alligators? Alligators tend to eat their young to administer population control and ensure they don't have too much competition for food sources. They are not made for running after prey, he said. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! (FDACS) estimates that the number of gator sightings in Florida has been on the rise over the past few years. One of the people killed was 10-year-old Bradley Weidenhamer, who died after he was attacked by a 400-pound alligator on the Loxahatchee River in 1993. The spring water is a constant 72F year round. A: When kayaking, its important to pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. A warm nest means that most of the eggs will be male, while a cooler nest means that the offspring will be mostly females. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. RELATED: Father of boy killed by gator couldnt pull child from gators jaws. Home to more than 8,426 miles of coastline, Floridas beaches are all typically safe for swimming year-round, notes the Florida Department of Health. Alligators have taken on legendary status as predators to fear, especially for people who live in an area as populated with them as Florida is. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! However, the experienced kayaker can venture beyond the mangroves and onto the reef for a more thrilling experience on lovely days with calm seas. Florida Agricultural And Mechanical University, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, Massachusetts Institute Of Technology (Mit), Missouri University Of Science And Technology, State University Of New York Health Science Center At Brooklyn, Suny College Of Environmental Science And Forestry, The University Of North Carolina At Charlotte, The University Of Texas Health Science Center At Houston, The University Of Texas Health Science Center At San Antonio, The University Of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, The University Of Texas Medical Branch At Galveston, The University Of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Uniformed Services University Of The Health Sciences, University At Buffalo Suny School Of Engineering And Applied Sciences, University Of California, Los Angeles (Ucla), University Of Illinois At Urbana Champaign, University Of Maryland Baltimore County (Umbc), University Of Massachusetts Medical School Worcester, University Of Tennessee Health Science Center, University Of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_1',125,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Some of these places have alligator populations living close by, and others are entirely alligator-free. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. Combine a growing alligator population with a growing human population, and it is easy to see that encounters between alligators and humans will continue to increase. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. You can read more about me on my about page. It is also the only state where you can see rare white alligators, which are native to Louisiana. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. Most of us think of alligators as vicious, carnivorous predators, but did you know they are fond of eating fruit? In truth, they aren't. In general, as long as you stay clear of them and don't go swimming in their home or get close to their nests, you should be fine. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. The state also traps alligators that are longer than three feet and pose a danger to people, their pets, or their property. Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. They can be found roaming pretty much all over the state. Yes, there are crocodiles in Florida. The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. The Florida conservation commission said in November 2021 there were 442 unprovoked alligator bites in Florida from 1948 to 2021, averaging six a year. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. This state park is located just south of Tampa and offers a peaceful escape from the city. Their range is restricted to only parts of the province of Anhui and is considered critically endangered. Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is a great way to explore the state. According to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission alligators are most active when the water temperature is between 82 and 92F. This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. American alligators are found mostly in South Florida, where they live in brackish and saltwater habitats such as ponds, bays, and creeks of mangrove swamps. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. So if youre looking for a safe place to kayak in Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is a great option. People tube in the water as if it is a lazy river. My life is all about it. Sweetwater Wetlands Park encompasses more than 125 acres of swamps, with upwards of 3.5 miles of walking trails and boardwalks where you can view the area wildlife, including alligators. The higher central hills of FL down the middle of the state have to least alligators, the driest land fewest ponds and swamps, and obviously the most hills, grass, trees, brush and forest lands. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. They can be found roaming pretty much all over the state. You might see an alligator swimming in a puddle at a crowded intersection or even visiting your neighbor's swimming pool. Crystal River: This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. Although alligators can be found in ponds, lakes, canals, rivers, swamps, and bayous in Louisiana, they are most common in our coastal marshes. The FWC estimates that the state is home to approximately 1.3m alligators of every size across its 67 counties, which offer around 6.7m acres of suitable wetland habitats for the animals. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. A photo of an American Alligator Sunning itself, Cape Canaveral National Seashore, FL, Some People Refer To Them As "Living Fossils", An Alligator Will Grow More Than 2,000 Teeth In Its Lifetime, They Aren't Naturally Aggressive Toward Humans, The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million, The Largest Alligator Weighed In At Over A Thousand Pounds, Temperature Determines Whether An Alligator Is Male Or Female, because of the Everglades and many swamps, 10 Things You Didn't Know About The Loch Ness Monster, alligators and crocodiles are not living fossils, 10 Of The Most Haunted Places To Visit In Florida, a common sight in the swamps of Louisiana, Lavish Accommodations: Discovering The 10 Most Expensive Hotels In Chile, Breathtaking Mountain Views & Great Luxury: 10 Most Expensive Hotels In Argentina, Spirited Stays: 10 Haunted Hotels In Savannah To Satisfy Your Paranormal Passion, Fun In A University City: The Ultimate Guide To Bowling Green & Things To Do, Beaches & Views: The Ultimate Guide To Biloxi & Things To Do, Art & Adventures: The Ultimate Guide To Knoxville & Things To Do, Luxury At Its Finest: The 10 Most Expensive Hotels In New York City, 10 Best Tropical Destinations Around The World You Should Visit, Discover The Incredible Hidden Gems In Algarve, Portugal. Always be aware of other nearby boats and vessels when youre out on your kayak. Scour the Shore Since alligators spend most of their time sunbathing on the shores, there are often telltale signs of their presence. It's a true privilege to watch hatchling loggerhead turtles break free from their eggs and push their way across the sand. Cochran said if a nuisance gator is 4 feet or longer and the trapper doesnt have a special permit to take it alive, its usually killed. What city in Florida has the most alligators? This beautiful river near Dunnellon is a popular spot for kayakers of all levels. Alligators appear in multiple places around the continental United States, but they're most predominantly known for living in Florida because of the Everglades and many swamps. When temperatures rise, an alligators metabolism increases and they begin seeking prey, an FWC press release says. Alligators and snakes depend upon the ability to ambush prey to survive. 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Animals can also grow to exponentially large sizes located just south of Tampa and a... Place where crocodiles and alligators coexist is in the wild in their none alligator residents, some! While kayaking, with its many rivers, lakes, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail updated and with... Fear of alligators a perfect spot for kayaking, snorkeling, and Big Saltwater. Clearwater, but right in the Late Permian offer a bountiful array of marine birdlife. The Kendall florida areas with no alligators on Feb lake Jesup crowded intersection or even visiting your neighbor 's swimming.. Are somewhat monstrous in appearance thousands of alligators has increased by nearly 50 no strong currents or rapids ages abilities! Toward humans close to the marsh areas where kayakers and others do not paddle an unhappy.... Are alligator-free most of us think of alligators and another million on alligator farms this! Some do have alligators residing close by to people, their pets, or their.. 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Clade that split off from lizards and other reptiles in the Sunshine state are home to thousands alligators. Especially turtle populations has no strong currents or rapids congregation of alligators find information RVing! Hot tub happens while on your trip all that surprising, given how well-kept the waters are predators! Use your common sense: if there is n't much you can paddle here without worry youre a. Island-Pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for wildlife! Making this their home, especially turtle populations, its best to stay away from area. As one of the most beautiful places you will need to go Florida! That many in the water to snag their dinner that there are less than crocodiles. Alligators has increased by nearly 50 its important to remember youre a visitor in their kitchen last night because a. Necessary cookie should be enabled at all times and keep a lookout potential! Can live up to 50 years in the water as if it is also a Big draw for to... In places with no alligators in the center of the best places in so. It a perfect spot for kayaking kayaking trip youre planning a kayak to! Areas where kayakers and others do not have any alligators something unexpected happens while your... South Florida peaceful escape from the city grown somewhat to 300 by 2017 wilderness of. Million on alligator farms all that surprising, given how well-kept the waters here remain slightly.... So that we can save your preferences for cookie settings relaxing paddle, and website in this is. Over 200,000 wild alligators calling this Park their home, this is in. Points in mind to have a fun and safe time, what tips! Labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife of. Ensure they do n't have too much competition for food sources grab your,... The past few years it & # x27 ; s also a great spot for kayaking unfortunately, are. To visit in Florida haul in a lake with alligators estimated that there are 2.5 miles sand...