Top Five Ways to Enjoy the St. Marys River
A Guide to Outdoor Adventure (and Conservation)
Key Takeaways
- Kayaking and canoeing provide a scenic and historical way to experience the St. Marys River.
- Fishing is a great way to enjoy the river, but it’s important to follow conservation-friendly practices.
- The river is home to incredible wildlife, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching and nature observation.
- Camping along the river allows for an immersive outdoor experience, but campers should minimize their impact.
- Participating in a river cleanup or simply picking up trash helps protect and preserve the St. Marys River.
The St. Marys River offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to connect with nature. The river provides the ideal backdrop no matter what activity you’re enjoying on it. However, as we enjoy these activities, it’s important to keep a conservation mindset to protect the St. Marys River for future generations. Here are the top five ways to enjoy the St. Marys River while ensuring its health and sustainability for years to come!
1. Paddle Through St. Marys River History
One of the best ways to experience the St. Marys River is by kayak or canoe. As you paddle across its waters, you’ll come across various environments including cypress swamps, winding channels, and towering oak canopies draped with Spanish moss. The river once served as a route for Native Americans, traders, and explorers—and today, paddlers can still sense its storied past in the landscapes.
Our friends at Florida State Parks and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection provide a great paddling guide.
Conservation Tip: Always follow the “Leave No Trace” principles. Avoid disturbing wildlife, refrain from littering, and use biodegradable sunscreen to prevent harmful chemicals from entering the water.
2. Fishing on the St. Marys
Fishing along the St. Marys River is a favorite activity for locals and visitors alike. Anglers can expect to find bass, catfish and more when fishing. Fishing is a great way to spend time outside no matter if it’s by boat, kayak or from the banks.
Conservation Tip: Follow local fishing regulations and practice catch-and-release when possible. Avoid using lead sinkers as they can be toxic to wildlife and properly dispose of fishing lines to prevent harm to birds and aquatic animals. Check the water quality of where you will be fishing.
3. A Birder’s Paradise
The St. Marys River is a paradise for avian life for birdwatchers. From bald eagles soaring overhead to great blue herons looking for food in the shallows, the river provides a home for countless bird species. With a sharp eye (and a bit of patience), you might also spot otters, deer, and even the occasional manatee.
Conservation Tip: Bring binoculars instead of getting too close to nesting areas. Be mindful of noise levels to avoid disturbing wildlife and document your sightings on citizen science platforms to contribute to conservation efforts.
4. Camping Riverside
There’s nothing like camping next to the river, listening to the sounds of nature lull you to sleep. You can roast marshmallows, tell stories, and wake up to a beautiful sunrise over the water. One of our local campgrounds is a great way to enjoy the river.
Conservation Tip: Use established campsites whenever possible to reduce environmental impact. Always pack out what you bring in and never leave food behind that can disrupt local ecosystems.
5. Join a River Cleanup
We wouldn’t be the St. Marys Riverkeeper if we didn’t mention that enjoying the St. Marys River isn’t just about recreation—it’s also about stewardship. One of the best ways to enjoy the river is by helping take care of it! Joining a river cleanup is a great way to have fun outdoors while protecting the environment. Ok, maybe it’s not necessarily “fun”, but we certainly appreciate it!
Conservation Tip: If you can’t make it to an organized cleanup, bring a small bag with you whenever you visit the river and pick up any litter you see. Every effort counts in keeping the St. Marys River pristine.
Enjoy the River, Protect the River
The St. Marys River offers many ways to connect with nature and it’s up to us to ensure that it remains a haven for wildlife and a destination for outdoor lovers. No matter how you’re enjoying the river, remember to tread lightly and respect this precious ecosystem.
Get Involved! Want to take your appreciation for the river to the next level? Consider a membership or volunteering with the St. Marys Riverkeepers. Be sure to also check out our upcoming river events, including guided paddles and cleanups, or share your favorite St. Marys River adventures with us by tagging us on social media.
