You can rent one! Blackwater Joe's will be taking care of us. Canoes are $30/day per person. Let Mia know if you plan to rent.
Sure! We do recommend canoes because they hold a lot more, but you can make a kayak work if you pack lightly. We usually end up carrying a few things for the kayakers in our canoe.
It will be spotty. Download map directions before you embark to the put in spot.
We usually don't run into a lot of wildlife on the Blackwater. Gators are not a concern.
3 days, 2 nights.
The trip is about 30 miles as the crow flies. There is not a strong current and we won't be stopping at every sandbar. I promise you can do it but it may not be the leisurely paddle you're used to for Blackwater day trips. You will sleep really good at night :)
It is primitive, back country camping. We will be camping on the banks of the river and bringing firewood. It's fun! There is a day-use spot with real bathrooms and water we will stop at on day two.
We plan to make one big meal in the dutch oven to share every night. We cannot guarantee vegetarian/dietary restrictions. We will have a tiny cook stove for boiling water. Otherwise you're on your own! Pack like you would for backcountry camping.
It may be tricky to time it, but probably, yes. We'll try to have a firmer schedule closer to the date so we can coordinate.
Let's keep young children at home for overnight campers, there will be adults partying and unlimited access to the water and low visibility at night, we'd rather not risk it. Older kids are welcome, use your best judgement.
Yes! If your dog is good with this kind of activity and other dogs.
If you are renting a canoe, it will be taken care of by the outfitter. If you are bringing your own boat, you can either self shuttle or use Blackwater Joe's service.
More adventure for you! Bring your headlight, a buddy, and a whistle. We usually don't go very far on the first day (Friday), the point is more to just get on the water and get our first camp set up. Just make sure you are at the right put in spot and keep going until you see the group.
Pack light, synthetic layers and a poncho/rain jacket. It is usually warm during the day and can get chilly at night. It can get damp when you're camping next to the river from condensation, jeans are not ideal.
-tent -sleeping bag -water & bevs -food -local firewood if you're in a canoe -dry bags (if you don't have a dry bag, you will at least want to put your things in garbage bags) -headlamp -lighter -bug spray -sunscreen -a backpacking stove and pot set if you have one -a coffee cup if you want to drink coffee -utensils and whatever cookware you need -cooler with ice if you're in a canoe Things you can live without but will make you more comfy: -an inflatable pillow -inflatable sleeping pad -collapsible backpacking chair -a chair for your canoe seat -wool socks/camp slippers -lights -instruments
DO NOT pack: glass.
-Morning coffee -Shared hot dinner -Paper plates