Located 25 miles southeast of Tallahassee, this black-water river offers unparalleled beauty as one of the best canoeing rivers in northwest Florida. Located in a karst plain that extends over 100 miles from Tallahassee to the east, this river boasts several sets of rapids. The lower section of the river, known as the Aucilla River Sinks, is not suitable for canoeing, but is one of the most scenic walks in our area.
Quick Tips:
Access: From Tallahassee, travel east of US 27 for 29 miles to the town of Lamont. Just southeast of Lamont, a bridge crosses the Aucilla River. This section of the river is primarily of the drop-and-pool nature, with stretches of slow water broken by rocky shoals and small drops. The high banks are covered by a second-growth hardwood forest. Swampy areas provide a contrast of cypress, magnolia, and titi.
State Road 257 crosses the Aucilla River and provides another access point. There is usually a pleasant current on this section except in very low water. The banks are high and densely wooded, with limestone outcroppings. The first set of rapids is encountered about 2 miles downstream. It is distinguished by a small, rocky shoal, followed by a sharp bend to the right. The current speeds up, and a sharp turn back to the left results in a shoal of cascading water for about 40 yards. It is a fairly easy run that poses little hazard to the competent canoeist.
Jones Mill Creek enters from the west. The creek usually spills over a limestone ledge and provides a pleasant swimming hole. The banks have been cleared and it is a nice spot for camping. The biggest shoal on the Aucilla is located less than a mile below Jones Mill Creek. This is a boulder-strewn drop of 8 to 10 feet over a distance of about 30 yards. It is true white water and should be accorded proper respect. The sound of fast water will usually be heard well in advance of the rapids, and a quiet pool at the top makes it easy to pull over for scouting. Scout from the east bank, where a well-worn trail runs beside the river.
Best Way To Get Around:
Be sure to check the tides. A free tide table is available by searching Aucilla River on Google.
The Aucilla and Wacissa rivers and their corridors are home to many fish, wildlife, and plant species and provide excellent recreational opportunities. The river corridors are part of a Strategic Habitat Conservation Area identified by the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission for the Florida black bear, American swallow-tailed kite, and limpkin. Both rivers are protected by state designation as Outstanding Florida Waters.