Navigating the Picturesque Rainbow Springs - A First-Timer's Guide

Randi Gleason
May 22
6 min read

Updated: May 22

THIS has been on my list for YEARS! I have seen the photos, seen the videos and still in my mind I thought that perhaps it was photoshopped. Could anything look so much like I imagine a stream in heaven to look like?

While staying at Sweet Citrus Acres RV Resort, I knew this was the ideal time to experience for myself. Rainbow River and Rainbow Springs are just a hop and skip away from the resort - just approx 15 miles. THIS WAS MY CHANCE!

If you're dreaming of paddling through aquamarine water so clear you can see the fish and turtles and otters beneath your kayak and moss-draped cypress trees lining the riverbanks, then Rainbow River in Florida is calling your name. As beautiful as it is, figuring out how to experience the springs—especially as a first-timer—can feel a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry, we’ve got you! Navigating the process, where to launch, which direction to go - it's all here. Of course there are so many ways to experience the springs but for first timers, here's a starting guide and you can go from there as you re-visit this magnificent natural landscape.

1. Where to Book & What to Rent

While searching online, we stumbled across Rainbow River Rat Rentals and we were total newbies. When booking we tried our best guess to answer the questions and know which route and pickup areas but thankfully the owner called after our booking to help. What a great experience as he took the time to ask our experience and then give his advice of what we might emjoy most. You can choose between different kayak options, paddle boards, and tubes and even select your launch site and direction of travel at the time of booking.

Tips:

Our first outing was in a double kayak, and while it was fine, we definitely recommend single kayaks if you’re tall. The double kayak felt somewhat cramped for the guys, and finding a comfortable position was tricky over several hours. Well maybe we are getting old so let's say if you're tall and over 40, you might like two singles instead of a double seater. :) My mom and stepdad joined us for this first adventure.

On our second trip, we each had our own kayak—so much better!

Rentals typically last five hours, which is plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. And these kayaks were so comfortable! I think Darold was really enjoying his extra leg room here!

These are the sit on kayaks in the options menu.

2. Launch Point Tips: KP Hole Park

If you're renting with Rainbow River Rat Rentals, they’ll meet you at KP Hole Park, one of the most popular access points to Rainbow River. There are other launch sites in the area, but KP Hole is centrally located and ideal for both upstream and downstream adventures. IMPORTANT TIP is TIMING! Here’s one of our biggest tips: go on a weekday if you can.

On our first trip (a Saturday morning at the first available launch time), we were lucky to get a parking spot—but the river was packed. It was still beautiful, but it felt crowded, especially in the spring areas.

On our second trip, a weekday, we were only the fourth car in the parking lot, and we saw less than five people total during our entire time in the actual springs. It was peaceful, serene, and an entirely different (and better) experience. If you want that kind of experience, a weekday morning is where it's at!

Also, bring cash. KP HOLE Park charges entry of $10, but the good news it that it's for the day so you can use the restrooms, park benches and such and its a great place to park your kayaks if needed.

RULES
Being from Louisiana, I noticed something that was shocking - rules and regulations. As you traverse this area, you'll notice how CLEAN and free of litter these waterways are. And there's a reson - it's because they are highly regulated. No bottles, cans, plastic, paper... nothing. Bring a drink in an insulated cup, food in tupperware type containers, and alcohol isn’t permitted through KP HOLE Park. There are also no food vendors so plan for your day.

4. Which Direction Should You Paddle?

From KP Hole, you can go two ways:

Option 1: Paddle South (Right) – With the Current - You’ll float downstream, and with Rainbow River Rat Rentals, you can choose to get picked up at one of two exit points. This avoids having to paddle upstream on your return. There is an extra fee, but it’s a great choice if you want to just enjoy the float and not worry about getting back.
The downside - you'll miss my favorite part with is Indian Creek. But you could paddle 10 minutes up to Indian Creek (to your left) and then float downstream to one of the two exit points. Maybe dip into Swampy's and enjoy lunch along the river.

Option 2: Paddle North (left) - Against the Current.

This is what we did—and it was magical. Be prepared, the first half of your journey is a workout as you paddle upstream. But this route is popular with locals who use it as daily exercise, and it pays off in a big way. You'll up to headwaters at Rainbow Springs State Park. It's a good hour to reach this point at a slow-moderate speed.

Along the way, you'll enjoy wildlife, watching fish, otters, turtles and more. Depths can reach from 4-20+ ft on the main channel while the offshoots are shallow. Speaking of offshoots....

Just about 10 minutes after you leave KP Hole Park is Indian Creek - a peaceful little offshoot that feels like a secret sanctuary. The water is stunning—pure, shimmering, and lined with lush vegetation. It’s one of the most photogenic and tranquil spots on the river. You can kayak, paddle board or even walk through this spring and experience it's serenity. As I said before, this is what I imagine the streams look like in heaven.

It took me a bit to have the courage to step out of my kayak and walk it. But after a while I realized I could see everything that could be in the water, I felt confident enough to do so.

Here's a quick video of part of the walk. Can you even imagine???? Listen to the sounds, can you fee the crystal cool water, ahhhhh take me back already!

5. Float Back and Enjoy the Ride

Once you reach your turnaround point if you went left out of KP Hole, floating back downstream is glorious. The current gently carries you back to KP Hole, allowing you to relax and soak in the beauty around you. Since it was a weekday and there weren't a ton of people on the water, we simply held onto one another and floated our way back. There is something so different about conversation when phones, tvs, or distractions aren't in play. Take this time to be with who you are with and enjoy what our Creator made in this unique part of the country. Filtered through layers of Florida limestone, these springs pump out over 400 million gallons of water per day, keeping the river consistently clean, cool, and vibrant.

6. Returning the Kayaks

When you arrive back at KP Hole (if you decided not to go downstream and be transported back for a fee, you'll leave your gear where the rental company instructed.

We simply sent a text to the crew member from Rainbow River Rat Rentals and he met us at the dock. They will assist you and pull your kayaks out, and send you on your way—easy and stress-free.

In summary, there are various launch points to experience this natural wonder, especially if you have your own board or kayak. For us not wanting to transport the kayaks or deal with them, it was wonderful to show up and hop in and then hop out when we were done.

Quick Recap of Tips:

Book single kayaks if you're tall.
Go on a weekday morning if possible.
Consider the direction you want to paddle: upstream for exercise and tranquility, downstream for a relaxing float.
Don’t skip Indian Creek!
The headwaters are magnificent too!