Picture is from St. Marys Shoals Park in Baker County, FL
Story Map St. Marys River Paddle Trail
Paddle the Upper River – St. Marys Shoals Park to St. Marys Cove
Paddle Information
Duration
- 3-6 hours (depends on water level and down debris). At 5 ft of water and no obstacles, it took us 4 hours. Plan your trip based on the max hours a trip may take!
Launch and Takeout
Water Level
- at least 4 ft
- Check out water levels at Macclenny (below)
Recommended skill level
- Intermediate due to the length of trip, large number of strainers, remote location, and potential speed of water flow.
Park Entrances and Fees
- There are two entrances to Shoals Park. If the main entrance is closed, go to Shoals Road about one mile east.
- River access is about 10 minutes from when you enter the park.
- $5 entry fee
- There are no amenities at the river’s edge at the launch site or at the takeout.
What to bring
- See Know before you go! section below
- 2 FULL (reusable) water bottle.
- Lunch and snacks. PACK IN, PACK OUT.
Be Prepared!
- Build in time to get shuttle – 30 minutes. Lock your car and do not leave anything of value inside. For $3, you can park your car inside the fence of St. Marys Fish Camp at the takeout. Ask for Brian!
- Shoals Park has sandy roads. Please use 4WD! As you get closer to the river, there are some spots of loosely packed sand.
- Wear a lifejacket! St. Marys River is beautiful but can be dangerous. Review paddling safety and techniques beforehand.
- Lots of down debris in the river. Become familiar with STRAINERS and learn to recognize them.
- Eddies and little whirlpools form around the bends. Practice caution and be mindful.
- Most of the land along this stretch is privately owned. If you have to stop, be respectful, leave no trace, and do not stay long. PACK IN, PACK OUT
- Learn about the best times of year to go paddling. Deer hunting season starts mid-October (Zone C), DEER FLY season at the beginning of summer, and spring can bring lots of rain.
- Check water levels and our Preparedness Tips below before any paddling adventure on the St. Marys River.
- Be safe and HAVE FUN!
Know before you go!
Preparedness Checklist
What to take
River Etiquette
Preparedness Checklist
- Check the weather before you leave.
When the weather is cooler, wear quick drying clothes and take layers. Avoid wearing cotton. Staying dry and warm makes a trip a lot more fun when it is cold outside. - Check the water levels within the river before you head out. Higher water typically means the river will be muddy and flows might make paddling difficult. Low water can create more obstacles to maneuver within the river.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you will likely be home.
Be prepared to stay out longer than you expect. Unexpected water conditions or taking a more leisurely float might make your trip longer than you thought. Average paddling rate is roughly 3 miles per hour. - Check the gauge of the section you plan to paddle. Not advised to paddle at flood stage. DANGER swift water!
What to take
- Personal flotation devices
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses/hat
- Water
- Food
- Appropriate clothing
- First aid kit with matches
- Waterproof bag/pouch for cell phone and other items
- Flashlight
- Bailer
- Small repair kit including duct tape
- Compass/GPS and map
- Spare paddle
- Safety whistle
River Etiquette
- Practice ‘Leave No Trace’ Guidelines
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts when launching, portaging, scouting, or taking out.
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
- Control pets or leave them at home.
- Know and obey all rules and regulations.
- Use only established access and portage sites and minimize impacts to shore
- Examine, but do not touch, cultural or historic structures and artifacts.
- Respect other river users and riverfront property owners and do not trespass on private property.
- No glass interfering with the recreational a(recommended for safety).
- Be courteous and polite when communicating with others.
- Avoid ctivities of others. Never engage in loud, lewd or inappropriate behavior.
