Quick Details
Single Kayak
1 Person per Kayak
$ 189
Tandem Kayak
Price includes 2 People and 2 seat backs
$ 379
Canoe
$ 85
Source to Sea: A Wild & Scenic Paddle Through Old Florida
Get ready for an unforgettable, full-day guided kayak adventure through one of the most iconic and untouched rivers in Florida. Paddle up to 8.5 miles from the shaded canopies of Riverbend Park to the sunlit open waters of Jonathan Dickinson State Park. Along the way, watch the river transform—from narrow, cypress-lined channels to wide estuarine stretches flanked by mangroves and pine flatwoods.
Your adventure begins under ancient trees in the upper Loxahatchee, where wildlife is abundant and the sounds of civilization fade away. Midway, we’ll stop for lunch at Trapper Nelson’s legendary 1940s homestead—accessible only by water and steeped in Florida folklore. Known as the “Wild Man of the Loxahatchee,” Trapper’s story comes to life as you explore his preserved cabins and artifacts.
After lunch at Trapper Nelson’s, guests can choose from three ways to complete the journey. For those who prefer to keep paddling, the standard tour continues all the way to the boat ramp at Jonathan Dickinson State Park, where the adventure concludes and a shuttle brings you back to Riverbend Park.
For an upgraded experience, guests can transition to a scenic pontoon ride from the boat ramp, extending the journey beyond the paddle route. This option takes you farther downriver, past hidden mangrove channels, stunning waterfront homes, and the iconic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse—offering a relaxing, comfortable ride to the edge of the Atlantic.
For a more exclusive and tide-dependent option, guests looking to paddle less can disembark just beyond Trapper Nelson’s and board the pontoon there. This extended cruise begins deeper in the wilds of the lower Loxahatchee and gives you even more time on the water without the full paddle. In both pontoon options, your gear is handled for you so you can simply enjoy the ride.
No matter which route you choose to finish the day—paddling all the way or cruising in comfort—this experience offers something rare: the chance to fully immerse yourself in Florida’s wild beauty while uncovering the rich stories that shaped it. With every bend in the river, you’ll gain a new perspective on nature, history, and the power of slowing down.
Whether you’re here for the challenge, the serenity, or simply the adventure, this is a day you won’t forget!
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- Full-day guided kayak tour
- Single or tandem kayak
- Paddles and life vests
- Shuttle ride back to the starting point
- Expert guide and river narration throughout
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- Food & Beverages–you’ll want to pack a cooler or 2 with lunch, snacks, and drinks
- Dry bag for phones, wallets, keys (available for purchase or rent)
- Gratuity for your guide (optional but always appreciated)
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1. Meet at Riverbend Park
Arrive at the launch site approx 10 minutes prior to start time for check-in, gear fitting, and a safety briefing with your guide.2. Launch onto the Upper Loxahatchee River
Begin your journey under a shaded canopy of ancient cypress trees and winding, narrow channels.3. Guided Paddle & Wildlife Viewing
Paddle at a steady pace as your guide shares stories about local ecology, wildlife, and the cultural history of the river.4, Midday Stop at Trapper Nelson’s Historic Homestead
Enjoy a break and bring-your-own picnic lunch at the legendary 1940s homestead of the “Wild Man of the Loxahatchee.”5. Continue into the Lower Loxahatchee River
As the river widens, paddle through mangrove-lined open water trails and scenic, estuary landscapes.6. Arrive at Jonathan Dickinson State Park Boat Ramp
Your paddle concludes at the take-out point, where your return shuttle will be waiting.7. Shuttle Back to Riverbend Park
Relax and enjoy the ride back to your starting point with memories (and photos) in tow!- Meet at Riverbend Park
Arrive approximately 10 minutes before your scheduled start time for check-in, gear fitting, and a safety briefing with your guide. - Launch onto the Upper Loxahatchee River
Begin your paddle under a canopy of ancient cypress trees, winding through serene, narrow channels in the Wild and Scenic upper Loxahatchee. - Guided Paddle & Wildlife Viewing
Enjoy a steady paddle as your guide shares insights into the river’s rich ecology, wildlife, and cultural history. - Lunch Stop at Trapper Nelson’s Historic Homestead
Break for lunch at the preserved 1940s homestead of the legendary “Wild Man of the Loxahatchee.” Take time to explore the historic grounds. - Choose Your Adventure to Complete the Journey
- Option 1: Full Paddle to JD State Park Boat Ramp
Continue paddling through the lower Loxahatchee as it opens into a scenic estuary. Conclude at the boat ramp in Jonathan Dickinson State Park, where your shuttle will be waiting. - Option 2: Pontoon Pickup at JD Boat Ramp
Paddle to the boat ramp and board a comfortable pontoon boat for a relaxing extended cruise past mangroves, luxury estates, and the iconic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse. - Option 3: Pontoon Pickup, Just Past Trapper Nelson’s
Paddle a short distance beyond Trapper Nelson’s, where you’ll be met by pontoon boat (tide-dependent). From there, enjoy an extended cruise downriver through the lower Loxahatchee and beyond.
- Return to Riverbend Park
All participants will return to Riverbend Park via shuttle, regardless of which option is selected. The only difference is the pickup point.
- Meet at Riverbend Park
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The Source to Sea Paddle Adventure isn’t just a kayak tour—it’s a full-day immersion into the wild heart of Florida. As you make your way down the Loxahatchee River, you’ll witness one of the only federally designated Wild & Scenic Rivers transform before your eyes—from a narrow, shaded jungle to a wide, open waterway. The journey unfolds naturally, giving you a front-row seat to the region’s ecological diversity and untouched beauty.
What sets this experience apart is its connection to old Florida. Along the way, you’ll stop at Trapper Nelson’s 1940s homestead—a hidden gem only accessible by water. Trapper, known as the “Wild Man of the Loxahatchee,” lived off the land and built a life that’s still preserved in time. Standing in that space, surrounded by towering pines and the quiet of the river, you can almost feel the history echoing around you.
This tour is designed for people who want more than a quick paddle—it’s for those who crave adventure, challenge, and discovery. The route is long and rewarding, offering space to reflect, observe, and reconnect with nature.
Led by experienced guides who are passionate about the river, you’ll not only be supported in your paddle but also inspired by stories, wildlife sightings, and the simple joy of moving through water. Every twist in the river reveals something new—and by the time you reach the end, you’ll have experienced a journey few people ever take.
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- Packed Lunch and Drinks – or opt for our lunch add-on (see “Extras” below for details)
- Towels and a change of clothes (optional)
- Sunscreen, bug spray, or other personal items (optional)
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What to wear:
- Comfortable, quick-dry clothing that WILL get wet and possibly a little dirty – Kayaking is a water sport!
- Water shoes or shoes you don’t mind getting wet — or leave them on shore.
Restrictions
- This experience is physically demanding at times—participants should be comfortable paddling for several hours.
- This tour is best suited for ages 12 and up with moderate fitness.
- Wildlife sightings are common but not guaranteed—it’s wild for a reason!
- Weather and tides may affect start time; we’ll notify you in advance of any changes.
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Available for Rent or Purchase
**- 3 Sizes of Dry Bags
*– JOC 50 SPF Rash Guards* (Purchase Only)
**-Quick Dry Towels (turlte, manatee or gator)Hassle-Free Sub & Drink Add-Ons
Don’t want to worry about packing food, hauling drinks, or cleaning up afterward? Let JOC handle it. We provide everything packed fresh in a chilled cooler with ice blocks—delivered to you at the start of your adventure and collected at the end. No mess. No gear to carry. Just show up and enjoy.
Individual Lunch Package – $35 per person
- One whole Publix cold sub (your choice)
- 1 bag of chips
- 3 drinks
Packed in a JOC-provided cooler with frozen ice blocks and a sub-safe keeper (collected post-trip)
Group Meal Bundles – Feeds 2–3 – $69
- Two whole Publix cold subs
- 3 bags of chips
- 8 drinks
Delivered in a shared JOC cooler with ice and all supplies included
Feeds 4–6 – $139
- Four whole Boar’s Head cold subs
- 6 bags of chips
- 16 drinks
Delivered in a larger JOC-provided cooler, chilled and ready to go
Sub Choices:
Italian
Turkey
Roast Beef
Ham
Ham & Turkey
The Ultimate (ham, turkey & roast beef)
Drink Options:
Water
Gatorade
Vitaminwater Zero
Celsius
Capri Sun
Izze Sparkling Soda
Extras (Optional):
Add a sub: +$10
Add a drink: +$2 each
Add chips: +$1.50 each
How to Order:
Select your meal package when booking. We’ll follow up to confirm your sub, chip, and drink choices. Orders must be placed at least 24 hours in advance.No bags to pack. No cooler to carry. No cleanup to worry about. Just a great meal, ready when you are.
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Jupiter Outdoor Center’s Cancellation Policy:
Thank you for understanding that Jupiter Outdoor Center (JOC) has honored your paid reservation by removing availability of selected equipment or event space, thereby making it unavailable for others.
Equipment rentals, guides, instructors, camp, and tour space is only guaranteed after a reservation has been made and paid in full. In special circumstances, JOC may choose to secure your reservation with credit/debit card information to be charged upon arrival; however, in the event of a no-show, your card will be charged and the same refund policy stated below will apply.
JOC’s cancellation policy is included in your confirmation email and is also available in the FAQ section of our website.
If JOC cancels a tour or event due to dangerous weather conditions or other circumstances beyond its control, you will receive either a 100% credit or refund. Please note that only JOC has the right to cancel for severe weather or other necessary circumstances.
If you or anyone in your party is unable to be present for the reserved rental, event, or tour for any reason, you must email [email protected] at least 48 hours in advance to receive a 100% credit for future use. Credits will be issued in the form of a digital gift card, and they are fully transferable to another person and never expire. No credits will be given for written cancellations received less than 48 hours prior to the reserved time slot. Any portion of less than one camp day is not refundable if weather causes early cancellation of camp. There is no refund or credit if you do not attend camp or your child is unable to attend. Missed days of camp cannot be rescheduled for any reason. JOC appreciates your understanding in enforcing this refund policy since we have removed availability from our inventory for you, thus making it ineligible for others to reserve and use.
Additional Fees and Charges
$30 per hour for each piece of equipment returned after rental period ends (after 15 minute grace period)
$50 for each piece of equipment returned after closing time (this is in addition to any hourly late fees)
$100 for each piece of equipment not returned to launch site