Boating On The St Johns River In Florida

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

The St. Johns River, Florida's longest river, meanders through the heart of the state, stretching approximately 310 miles from its headwaters to its mouth in the Atlantic Ocean. This iconic waterway showcases the diverse natural beauty of Florida, with its lush wetlands, wildlife-rich marshes, and serene stretches of water.

Nearby attractions along the St. Johns River add to its allure, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Visitors can explore historic sites, such as the Fort Caroline National Memorial, which offers insights into Florida's colonial history. Nature enthusiasts can venture into the Ocala National Forest, a sprawling protected area filled with hiking trails, springs, and camping sites.

Boating is a favorite pastime on the St. Johns River, thanks to its expansive waters and stunning scenery. The river is dotted with many marinas, offering boaters convenient access to amenities and services while they explore the various stretches of the river.

Water sports enthusiasts can indulge in a variety of popular activities, such as jet skiing, water skiing, and tubing, enjoying the wide-open spaces and calm waters of the St. Johns River. Additionally, kayaking and paddleboarding are ideal for those seeking a more leisurely and up-close experience with the river's natural wonders.

Numerous boat launch ramps are available along the St. Johns River, making it convenient for boaters to launch their vessels and set out on their aquatic adventures. These well-maintained ramps ensure easy access to the water, allowing boaters to navigate different sections of the river.

For those who wish to experience boating without owning a boat, rental boats offer a perfect solution. Visitors can rent boats of various types, from pontoon boats for leisurely cruises to fishing boats for angling excursions, allowing them to enjoy the freedom of boating on the St. Johns River.

The St. Johns River runs through several cities and towns, including Jacksonville, Sanford, and Palatka, offering opportunities for visitors to explore charming communities along its banks. Each city boasts its own unique character and attractions, providing a diverse experience for those exploring the river.

Boating season on the St. Johns River is generally year-round due to Florida's mild climate. However, the spring and fall months are especially popular, offering comfortable temperatures and pleasant weather for boating and outdoor activities.

Fishing is excellent on the St Johns River, with its waters teeming with a variety of fish species. Anglers can expect to catch bass, crappie, catfish, and more, making the river a haven for fishing enthusiasts.

Nearby parks and campgrounds provide ample opportunities for camping and immersing oneself in the serene natural surroundings of the St. Johns River. With its rich history, abundant wildlife, and recreational opportunities, the St. Johns River remains a cherished destination for boaters and nature lovers alike, offering unforgettable experiences along its winding course.

Boating, camping and fishing.

Over 300 miles of wandering waterway, St Johns River runs north and south, in the northeast corner of the state, between Jacksonville and Palatka. There are boat launch ramps all up and down the river for launching pleasure boats, pontoons, sailboats, water ski boats, speed boats and all types of fishing boats. Canoes and kayaks can be portaged from many areas. This is a proven bass factory as well as home to big catfish and stripers. There are hundreds of miles of shoreline and lots of structure including river channels, ledges, humps and shell beds that hold fish. Visitors come from far and wide for sightseeing, picnicking, hiking, boating and fishing. Many fishing enthusiasts consider this to be the "Bass Fishing Capital of the World". Area fishing guides know these waters well and offer guided fishing trips with the boat and all fishing gear provided. The primary fish species in the river include bass, striped bass, catfish, crappie and several species of sunfish.

Area Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Camping

St Johns Campground - 386 328-4470

Orange Point - Welaka State Forest Campground - 386 467-2388

Parramore's Campground & Fish Camp Campground - 386 749-2721

St Johns River Camp Ground - 386 749-3995

Astor Landing Campground & Marina - 386 759-2121

DeLand - St. Johns River KOA Campground - 386 736-6601

Highbanks Marina & Camp Resort - 386 668-4491

Rivers Edge RV Park - 386 467-7147

Blair's Jungle Den RV Park - 386 749-2264

St Johns River Map

Fishing

Fish species found in St Johns River include largemouth bass, channel catfish, white catfish, black crappie, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, redear sunfish, spotted sunfish, warmouth and striped bass.

Largemouth bass Channel catfish White catfish Black crappie Bluegill Redbreast Sunfish Redear Sunfish Spotted Sunfish Warmouth Sunfish Striped bass