News for the active lifestyle in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

Kings Landing: Apopka's outdoor oasis for kayaking enthusiasts

6/1/2024

Located just 15 minutes from Mount Dora and hidden from the rooftops and sprawling developments in Apopka, King’s Landing stands out as a stunning haven for nature enthusiasts seeking outdoor adventure and serenity alike. The natural attraction is located on the tranquil waters of Rocks Springs Run, one of three main tributaries that feed into the scenic Wekiva River Basin.
Offering an abundance of activities, from kayaking along the pristine waterways to exploring lush landscapes, King’s Landing remains an adventurous destination for locals and visitors.

Kayaking & Paddleboard Heaven:
At the heart of King's Landing's allure is its exceptionally scenic kayaking opportunities. There are a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy, ranging from self-guided rentals and eco and adventure tours to two-hour nighttime escapes under the stars.
Paddlers can opt to paddle against the current to discover the beautiful clear waters of the two-mile Emerald Cut, or they can relax with the easier 8.5-mile Shuttle Run downstream that starts with clear water and then becomes more tannic downstream, creating the perfect environment for Florida wildlife, including aquatic turtles, various fish, water fowl, and of course, alligators. Return transportation is provided back to King's Landing, but requires a reservation. The Shuttle Run takes on average 4 and a half hours to complete and requires paddling experience.
Visitors can rent canoes and kayaks onsite by reserving them online, or they can opt to bring their own and just pay a launch fee. Coast Guard approved life vests are required and can also be rented onsite.

Wekiva Island:
Paddlers who opt for the Shuttle Run excursion will end their trip at a designated dock located at Wekiva Island, where return transportation is prearranged. Located on the banks of the run, the island’s rustic eatery, The Tooting Otter, features daily drink specials, craft beer and wine bar, while the Without A Paddle Café has basic lunch offerings. Visitors can also relax on the boardwalk that overlooks the river. The King's Landing wristband gets guests into Wekiva Island with no additional charge.

Primitive Camping:
Nearby King’s Landing launch area, visitors can pitch a tent under the stars and cypress trees at the Eagle Scout Campground or they may travel four miles downstream to the Big Buck Camp on the banks of the scenic Rock Springs Run. Campsites must be booked through Wekiva State Park in advance. For reservations call 407-884-2008.

Plan ahead:
Remember to pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. Water shoes are essential due to the rugged bottom of parts of shallows. Traffic entering Kelly Park backs up early, so plan to get a head start in the morning. If you opt to rent a kayak, make your reservation in advance online at www.kingslandingfl.com. Visitors should note that children ages 2 or less and pets are not permitted at King's Landing.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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Mount Dora’s Forest Preserve trail re-opens after addition of new features

6/1/2024

Improvements to one of Mount Dora’s hidden gems, Forest Reserve, a 14-acre tract of wooded land behind W.T. Bland Library are now complete, and the amenity has re-opened to visitors. The slice of natural Florida nestled in the heart of the city now has a 375-foot boardwalk providing an entry point into the urban forest and connecting to a one-mile dirt trail loop that extends further into the shady hardwood hammock.

RELATED: Top 10 walking trails in Lake County

Two new trailhead-entry structures were added, along with seven parking spaces, benches, and signage. Additionally, a new sidewalk leading from the western edge of the Nunan Butterfly Garden, provides children easy access to a new 20-sign storybook walk adjacent to the boardwalk. Library staff will select nature-based children’s books to feature on the walk and stories will be changed every month. There is other signage on the dirt trail for art, poetry and more.

Restoration efforts to the urban forest have been underway for over two years with the help of volunteers who have been removing invasive species in accordance with recommendations made by the Florida Forest Service.

The multi-faceted outdoor space is dedicated to preserving and restoring the urban forest for future generations. The preserve features family activities and is intended to be a hub for environmental education and community engagement. Naturalists and other experts will offer free programs for all ages designed to get people into the woods.

Forest Preserve is located at 325 W. 20th Avenue and is open 365 days a year.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

Outdoor Life

Kings Landing: Apopka's outdoor oasis for kayaking enthusiasts

Mount Dora’s Forest Preserve trail re-opens after addition of new features

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