St. Johns River Fun Facts

It’s BIG

The St. Johns River is the longest river in Florida at a whopping 310 miles long. It flows through 12 counties, moving from northeast Florida to the Atlantic Ocean. At its largest point, the St. John’s River is almost 3 miles wide.

It is also separated into three river basins and two watersheds. The Upper Basin of the St. Johns engulfs approximately 2,000 square miles, and the largest basin is the Lower Basin covering 2,600 square miles. Thanks to its massive size, the river transports about 16,000,000 tons of freight through the ports in Jacksonville, Fla. per year.

It Flows North

The vast majority of rivers in the world flow from north to south. This is usually due to the river’s source, mostly mountains, is to the north of the mouth causing the water to flow downward. However, it is said that fewer than 30 rivers in the United States are the exception to the rule and flow northward, including the St. John’s River.

The reasoning behind the unusual flow is the slight slope in the river itself. Beginning in the Saint John’s Marsh, the rivers course slowly lowers about 30 feet to the mouth meeting the Atlantic Ocean. This extremely gentle slope causes a very lazy river; it’s actually one of the slowest in the world.

It’s VERY Connected

About 3.5 million people live within the various watersheds that feed into the St. Johns River. It’s the main water body in the St. Johns River Water Management District that covers about 21 percent of Florida or about 7.8 million acres.

It has a Salty Side

The St. Johns River begins as a network of marshes, consolidating into a blackwater stream. This means that due to its groundwater and marsh beginnings, the River is predominately fresh water.

It’s not until the River hits the Jacksonville area that the water becomes brackish. This is due to the sides pushing seawater into the mouth of the St. Johns River, creating a estuarine ecosystem in the area. This means animals usually seen out to sea such as dolphins and sharks are sometimes found thriving here.

It has…monkeys?

Where the St. Johns River meets the Wekiva River, troops of Rhesus Monkeys can be found monkeying around. Known for their adept swimming abilities, the origins of the Rhesus Monkeys transports remain unknown. However, several theories exist. Many believe they were brought in during the 1930’s filming of Tarzan. Whatever the case, they have adapted well to their new Florida home off the St.Johns River.

It’s Fun

There is never a shortage of fun in the sun on the St. Johns River, known as the most significant recreational river in Florida, and for good reason.

Known as the Bass Fishing Capital of the World, the St. Johns River is rich in fisheries including ample crappie, bluegills, catfish and other varieties freshwater fish. During the spring and summer months, visitors can enjoy clear waters for swimming, boating, and scuba diving along the river’s connected watersheds.

Ashore, the St. Johns River Water Management District maintains approximately 700,000 acres of land for hiking, camping, hunting, biking and equestrian riding.

Blue Springs State Park

The St. Johns River is also linked to 14 lakes and numerous Florida Springs including Blue Spring State Park, a protected Manatee Refuge. During the winter season, hundreds of manatees inhabit the surface of the spring for onlookers to enjoy.

Boat Rentals on the St. Johns River

At Castaways on the River, we offer boat rentals at our Lake County location in Astor, FL. Looking to stay awhile? Rent a cool cottage or a motel room today at Castaways on the River, which is right on the St. Johns River.

Share your Favorite Spot

Do you have any favorite spots along the river? Leave a comment, below. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Don’t forget to tag us! We’d love to hear from you.

Plan A Perfect Summer Barbecue

Enjoying lazy days in the sun and on the water is a great time to plan a perfect summer barbecue party. Family and friends will want to be included in all the fun, and of course the main attraction will be the food.

As for what is on the menu, it will depend on a variety of factors like who is doing the cooking, how many people are attending, and what time the food will be served? Will it be an all-day affair or have a designated timeline? Will food be served in shifts? Served at a specific time? These are questions you’ll need to answer up front so your guests know what to expect.

It’s best to have an idea early on of how large the gathering will be to determine how much food will be needed. This will help with the overall food shopping and delegating who can supply what item.

Before we get too far along, let’s clear up a question that may be a matter of preference. Is it a barbecue or cookout? Technically the two can be considered the same in terms of events. There is no right or wrong menu item when it comes to chowing down. A barbecue just means cooking outside on the grill.

How to Plan A Perfect Summer Barbecue Party

So now that we’ve settled that, let’s move on to figuring out the menu. The typical summer barbecue party menu includes burgers and hotdogs. Some gatherings may include more elaborate fare to enjoy such as the days’ fresh catch from the St. Johns River.

The seasonal fishing calendar forecasts it’s a good time to catch Bass, Bluegill, Redear, Specks, Stripers and Catfish. So anglers let’s see what you add to the barbecue. When you return to the boat dock here at Castaways, use the convenient fish cleaning station to get everything ready for the grill just a few steps away.

And don’t forget about all the great side dishes to go along with the main entrees from salads, beans, and other tasty treats and appetizers. Invite everyone to provide their favorite dish to help feed the masses. Get ready for recipe sharing or be prepared to protect the secret ingredient.

And since we are talking about summer time, get the ice cream churn out and put the popsicles on ice so everyone young and old can enjoy a variety of cool goodies.

castaways-summer-barbeque-grill — A good grill master must be included to plan a perfect summer barbecue .

Barbecue Grill Duty

Before everyone digs in to enjoy the spread of food, make sure to thank the person who handled the grill duties. This is often a hard, hot and thankless job. Remember without someone on the grill, it’s just eating out. Tips to show your thanks is to make sure the grill master has a cold, refreshing beverage close by to enjoy. It’s likely to already be hot, then add to that the heat and smoke from the grill. Keep the cook cool and comfortable.

It’s also a good idea to designate helpers for the grill master so they can play close attention to the food and not have to worry about carrying it to the serving area. They may need other tools and supplies so extra pairs of hands are often appreciated.

Plan Ahead

Consider creating a list of all the items needed to pull off the perfect summer barbecue party. It’s always the little things like forgetting a special condiment that can derail a good plan. If you are heading to a remote area, it may be difficult to run to the nearest supermarket or big box retailer to pick up a few items. So pack what you’ll need ahead of time to ensure everything arrives at the barbecue.

Also who is bringing the plates, cutlery, napkins, drinks, ice etc.? Yes those are all the things that round out your barbecue that need to go on the plan ahead list.

It may also be wise to have a backup plan in case of rain on the day of the barbecue. A quick rain shower or rolling thunderstorms is a daily occurrence in Florida during the summer months. Check the local weather report to see when rain is forecast. The information can help if you need to change the start or end time of the barbecue. You’ll also want to keep a close eye on the clouds if those attending the barbecue go out on a boat.

Barbecue Party Accessories

Bring a few board games for all to enjoy or a deck of cards to see who has the best hand. This is where the fun begins with plenty of laughter and great memories are made. Pose for a selfie or two to capture the moment.

Board games also come in handy while waiting for the weather to clear up outdoors.

And what’s a party without some good tunes on the speaker? Designate a DJ to make sure the music is playing and everyone gets to hear a favorite song. Create a play list to get the party started. Dancing is a good way to work off a few of those calories you enjoyed from the grill.

Don’t forget to plan for everyone to enjoy time in the sun or get out on the water. All that fun is sure to work up hearty appetites which will be ready to feast on a barbecue spread.

Let us know how we can help you plan a perfect summer barbecue party here at Castaways.

Plan Your Party Along the St. Johns River

Castaways On The River in Astor, Florida has space, outfitted with grills, to plan the perfect summer barbecue party. The resort has rental cottages and motel rooms to accommodate guests. Also inquire about our fleet of rental boats to get out on the St. Johns River to fish and to enjoy nature at area attractions like nearby freshwater springs. Castaways is nestled on the eastern edge of the Ocala National Forest, located between Ocala and Ormond Beach along State Road 40. Call Castaways On The River at (352) 759-3442 to book a rental boat, reserve rooms and to arrange additional plans.

How to Plan the Perfect Day at Silver Glen Springs

Florida natural freshwater springs that stay a constant 72 degrees all year long are some of the state’s most important natural treasures. A short hour boat ride from Castaways lies Silver Glen Springs. The United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service monitors the springs in northwest Florida. It’s one of the most popular springs for residents and tourists each year. To embark on an adventure at Silver Glen Springs, don’t forget that a reservation is required, ensuring you secure your spot for the perfect day of exploration and relaxation. Here’s how to plan the perfect day at Silver Glen Springs.

Enjoy the Water

Many residents and visitors claim Silver Glen Springs has the clearest water of all the springs in Northwest Florida. You can actually see rainbows shine across the bottom of the spring when the sun hits the clear water just right. The turquoise water also makes it excellent for swimming and snorkeling.

Look for fish and other marine life in the water and make sure you take your goggles to truly appreciate the water from down below. Scuba diving, though, is not permitted in the spring. Silver Glen Springs is also shallower than most other springs, making it a great spring for children to enjoy too. Utilize our seven tips for swimming in freshwater springs.

Utilize the Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area

The Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area makes up a protected swimming area that doesn’t allow boats and adjacent uplands that are used for trails and picnic areas.

The upland area forest consists of several trees and places to see birds. Those that love photography should bring their camera to take pictures of the area with Silver Glen Springs in the background.

Traverse the Spring Boils Trail and take a walk on the Lake George Trail too to see the beautiful cypress shoreline of the second largest lake in Florida: Lake George.

Look for Manatees

During the cooler winter months, manatee sightings are frequent in Silver Glen Springs as manatees seek warmer spring waters in the middle of the state. Follow our guide to learn how to spot manatees.

girl swimming in silver glen springs — Take your goggles to truly appreciate the clear water.

Explore the Ocala National Forest

Silver Glen sits within the Ocala National Forest. Make sure you take some time to explore the forest and all that it has to offer during your visit. Visit the Ocala National Forest Hunting Season Guide to learn more.

Silver Glen Springs Fun Facts

There is so much to learn about Silver Glen. Here are some fun facts to get you excited about your trip to the springs:

The spring’s two vents produce an average of 65 million gallons of water daily.
The springhead is 200-feet in diameter
The spring and encompassing area encompass 22 acres of water.
The Spring Boils Trail near Silver Glen Springs leads to nearby Jody’s Spring, which is named for the spring described by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings in her book, “The Yearling.”
Silver Glen Springs funnels and flows 3,300 feet into Lake George, the second largest lake in Florida behind Lake Okeechobee.
The spring is also an important archaeological site. Large mounds behind fences are marked and considered a sacred space for Native Americans.

Rent a Boat

Visiting the springs is fun and so is renting a boat on the St. Johns River. Castaways on the River offers rental boats for your trip. Your marina rental boat operators can provide you with tips and directions to captain your rental boat to Silver Glen Springs. Castaways on the River offers quaint cottages and motel rooms with views of the St. Johns River. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to plan your trip to the area today!

Top 7 Attractions to See Near Astor, Florida

North Central Florida in Astor, Florida near the St. Johns River is a must visit spot this time of year. There is so much to do in Astor and in nearby Ocala and Daytona Beach. The great part about Astor is it’s just a 45-minute drive to Ocala and 45 minutes to Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach. Circle these seven attractions near Astor, Florida on your map to visit this year.

Lake George

Lake George near Astor, Florida is the state’s second largest lake behind Lake Okeechobee. It is a beautiful freshwater lake ripe full of bass and other fishing opportunities. At approximately six miles across and 11 miles around, Lake George is fed from the northern flow of the St. Johns River. Get out there and enjoy a sunset and do some boating on Lake George this year.

freshwater springs — The St. Johns River near Astor, Florida is home to some of the state’s most breathtaking natural springs.

Natural Springs

The St. Johns River near Astor is home to some of the state’s most breathtaking natural springs. The springs contain crystal-clear water that stays constant 72-degrees year-round. Make plans to go snorkeling, canoeing and kayaking. During the winter months, head to the springs to spot manatees that are staying warm in the springs until the coastal waters warm back up again.

Follow these tips for swimming and enjoying the local springs.

De Leon Springs State Park

De Leon Springs is a 525-acre park that produces 19 million gallons of water a day at 72 degrees year-round! The park consists of boat ramps, swimming areas and offers canoe and kayak rentals. Picnic tables, grills and a playground are also available for families.

While you are there, be sure to have one of the best breakfasts around at the Sugar Mill Restaurant, which is located in a 100-year-old 1830s sugar mill.

Ocala National Forest

The Ocala National Forest is a nationally protected forest of 607 square miles of nature exploration. Full of natural springs and hunting opportunities, you can spot manatees, bears, deer, birds and other wildlife at certain times of the year.

Learn how to camp along the St. Johns River and the forest’s hunting guidelines.

attractions astor, florida horse jumping — Less than an hour from Astor is Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, home to world-class golf courses and equestrian events .

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

Are you an equestrian lover or a golfer? Less than an hour from Astor sits the Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, home to world-class golf courses and equestrian events that include the Ocala Breeders Sales, the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit and the Live Oak International among others.

Daytona Beach

One of the most popular beaches in the country, Daytona Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy spring break. It is also home to NASCAR’s Daytona 500 and Bike Week in February. In July, the speedway is home to the Coke Zero 400, a Biketoberfest in October and other racing events. The beach along the Atlantic Ocean is a Spring Break hotspot and a great place to visit year-round.

attractions astor, florida daytona 500 — Daytona Beach is home to NASCAR’s Daytona 500 The race track is a short drive from Astor.

Rent a Cottage

Need a place to stay that’s right in the center of all of the above attractions? Look no further than Castaways on the River in Astor. Guests can enjoy quaint cottages and motel rooms overlooking the St. Johns River. Enjoy the tranquility of the river in a setting that’s close to all the attractions and events in Central Florida you plan on attending this year.

Rent a Boat

While you are here, make sure you rent a boat to enjoy some boating and do some fishing on the St. Johns River. Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to book your boat rental and your North Central Florida accommodations stay today.

8 Must Visit Spots in Astor, Florida

North Central Florida is a treasure trove of natural beauty that you need to explore for yourself along the St. Johns River in Astor, Florida this year. You may only have a weekend to visit so we have done your homework for you. Here are the eight must visit spots in Astor you need to visit this year.

Plan a Trip to Lake George

Lake George calls recreational anglers and boaters alike to its haven of shimmering water and endless fishing opportunities. At approximately six-miles across and 11 miles around, Lake George is Florida’s second-largest lake behind Lake Okeechobee. Fed from the northern flow of the St. Johns River, Lake George is actually fed its water from the south of the lake. Lake George is a wonderful spot to do some fishing and enjoy some boating this year.

Read our Lake George guide to learn more about this popular lake.

Visit the Ocala National Forest

The Ocala National Forest is a nationally protected forest of 607 square miles of exploration. It contains more than 600 lakes, springs and rivers too. Depending on the time of year, you can see bears, deer, birds, manatees and other marine life in the forest.

Learn the ins and outs of camping along the St. Johns River, how to start a campfire and hunting guidelines in the Ocala National Forest.

Take a Dip in the Natural Springs

The St. Johns River area near Astor, Florida is home to some of the state’s most beautiful freshwater springs, which sit near the Ocala National Forest. The springs contain crystal-clear water that stays a constant 72-degrees year-round. Popular activities in the springs include swimming, snorkeling, canoeing and kayaking. During the cooler winter months, you are also likely to spot manatees that have made their way inland to stay warm in the spring waters.

Put these springs on your must-visit list this year:

Silver Glen Springs is a popular place to see manatee sightings in the winter.
Juniper Springs provides an access point to the Florida National Scenic Trail.
De Leon Springs is the former home of the Native Mayacca Indians.
Salt Springs is a haven for turtles, bass and Blue Crabs and is not accessible by motor boats.

what to do astor florida dining — Some restaurants have boat docking access from the St. Johns River.

Dine at Local Restaurants

Astor, Florida is also a very popular spot to grab a bite to eat at local restaurants nestled near the St. Johns River. There are five must-stop dining spots that offer a variety of fresh seafood and waterfront dining options. Some restaurants have boat docking access from the river. Other restaurants are popular hangouts for motorcyclists taking leisurely weekend drives on State Road 40, so share those spots with bikers and keep an eye out for them on the road! Make sure you check out the dining scene in Astor during your next visit.

Hike the Florida National Scenic Trail

If you are a hiker, the Florida National Scenic Trail is calling your name. The trail consists of 1,300 miles of federally designated recreation trail that crosses right near the St. Johns River in Astor, Florida.

Try tackling the central portion of the trail near Astor, where you can search for Florida black bears, birds and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings of the St. Johns River.

Find out how to hike the Florida National Scenic Trail and map your hiking trip today.

what to do astor florida — Plan a trip to the St. Johns River soon to relax and unwind.

See Bears on the Scenic Byway

The nationally-designated Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway in North Central Florida is the place to catch glimpses of the Florida Black Bear. The east-west segment of the byway takes motorists along State Road 40 near the St. Johns River and through the Ocala National Forest and the Lake George State Forest.

Use an app to find black bears and read up on our guide to improve your black bear spotting skills.

Book Your Next Visit

Will you not be able to visit every must visit spot in Astor in one trip? No worries. Plan another trip soon and book a stay at Castaways on the River to spend some time in North Central Florida this year! Castaways on the River offers cozy cottages and motel rooms so you can stay just steps away from the St. John River in Astor, Florida. You can also rent a fully-equipped RV spot near the St. Johns River too. Read up on the seven North Central Florida RV tips you need to know to be prepared too.

Rent a Boat

You have to rent a boat on the St. Johns River to fully appreciate the river’s beauty. The marina at Castaways on the River can accommodate all of your boat rental and fishing trip needs. Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to book your boat rental and North Central Florida visit accommodations today.

7 North Central Florida RV Campground Tips You Need to Know

Are you ready to do some RV camping in North Central Florida? The fall and winter months are the best time of year to take advantage of the RV Florida campgrounds and enjoy the cooler weather and amazing scenery along the St. Johns River. Load up the RV as we review an RV campground tip checklist for you.

rv campgrounds florida — The fall and winter months are the best time of year to take advantage of the RV Florida campgrounds and enjoy the cooler weather.

Reserve Camp Site Locations Now

January, February and March are the most popular months to find a campsite in North Central Florida. If you’re seeking a camp site for your RV, the time is now to book a reservation.

For Florida State Parks RV campsite reservations, call (800) 326-3521 or book a reservation online.

Book a RV Florida Campground Site in the Off-Season

Seeking to do some Florida RV camping in the off-season when it’s not as busy? There’s still time. October and November, as well as April through May, are good times to reserve an RV campsite and have some more peace and quiet in natural surroundings. You’re beating the snowbirds to the sites before they drive south for the winter and you’re taking advantage of the spots after they head back north after Easter.

rv campgrounds florida Pinterest image — Load up the RV as we review an RV campground tip checklist for you.

Review and Know the RV Campground Rules

Whether you are staying in a Florida State Park or a private campground or RV park, it’s important you read the rules of the specific spot you are visiting ahead of time. This helps you know what you’re allowed to bring and allows you to set up your RV properly when you arrive.

Hookups May Be Limited

We know that the point of RVs is so you can camp without really roughing it. Know ahead of time, though, that if you’re seeking to park your RV at a North Central Florida location, you may not have access to certain amenities that regular RV parks do. This means that the following RV amenities may not be available to you:

Water Hookups
Sewer Service
Electric Service
Cable television connection

Make sure you review what your campground site offers before you book your trip so you can plan ahead of time. If your campground doesn’t offer these services, bring fresh water and have a generator with a full tank of gas to accommodate your RV.

RV at Florida campsite — Make sure you book a spot ahead of time that accommodates the length and width of your RV.

Plan Your RV Spot Carefully

Make sure you book a spot ahead of time that accommodates the length and width of your RV. Large RVS require proper planning. You should also inquire about the width of the campground trails and how smooth they are. Tree limbs and unpaved roads can be difficult to maneuver for RVs.

Ask for RV Assistance

Is this your first time in a North Central Florida RV campground? Don’t be afraid to ask before check-in or during check-in if the campground provides an escort service for first-time visitors to your RV site. It’s likely a guide will accompany you to your site and help you get settled.

Bring Food and a Grill

If you’re not planning on hunting your food, bring coolers full of food to plan for meals while you’re camping. A portable grill with small propane tanks and an electric skillet can cook anything you need while you’re in the wilderness. Don’t forget your coffee and a coffee pot.

Castaways-RV-2-10-20-16-compressor — Know the rules of the specific Florida RV camp site spot you are visiting ahead of time.

Plan a Florida RV Trip Along the St. Johns River

Are you an RV camper that enjoys an RV site close to the water? Castaways on the River offers two RV sites just steps away from the river with 30 amp and 50 amp electrical offerings that include cable, water and sewer hookups. The sites have access to barbecue grills on-site and are steps away from the St. Johns River and a marina full of rental boats so you can satisfy your river adventure and fishing cravings.

Embrace and enjoy the river by reserving an RV site along the river and renting a boat at Castaways on the River. We also offer cottages and motel rooms too. Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to reserve your RV spot and plan your trip along the river today!

How to Use Florida License Free Fishing Days

Fellow freshwater anglers and non-anglers unite! Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River will be held the first Saturday and Sunday in April this year and you’ll want to be prepared. License free fishing weekends this year fall on the weekends of April 2-3 and June 11-12.

We have the scoop on how to use Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River and why these days are important for both experienced fishermen and those seeking to try freshwater fishing for the first time.

Teach New Anglers the Ropes

Dad and son fishing outdoors — Florida license free fishing days are the best time to teach both your children and your buddies seeking freshwater fishing lessons.

Florida license free fishing days are the best time to teach both your children and your buddies seeking freshwater fishing lessons. Parents can use these days to teach teenagers 16 and over the ins and outs of fishing to see if they become addicted before purchasing a license. Those under the age of 16 don’t need a license but could be required to provide proof of their age while fishing. Anglers can also introduce their friends to the sport to see if they become hooked. #seewhatwedidthere?

These license free days are useful, as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) requires Florida residents and visitors to have a freshwater fishing license on all other days you are catching fish. Annual freshwater fishing licenses are $17 and five-year licenses are $79. You can purchase licenses at your local tax collector’s office.

How to take freshwater fish

Game fish, which include bass and black crappie that are abundant in the St. Johns River, can only be caught using a fishing pole and line or with a road and reel. There’s no limit on the number of poles fishermen can use to catch game fish. Unlike saltwater fishing, you can’t catch freshwater fish by underwater swimming or diving. It’s also illegal to use a spear gun, firearm or any other weapon with ammunition to catch freshwater fish. Cast nets with mandatory stretched mesh sizes, though, can be used. Non-game fish, which is everything that isn’t labeled as game fish by the FWC, are well, fair game.

Fish you can catch and keep

Unrecognizable fisherman, How to use Florida License Free Fishing Days — Remember that license free fishing weekends this year fall on the weekends of April 2-3 and June 11-12.

While non-game fish have no limits placed on them, there are special bag and length limits for game fish. For the St. Johns River, those requirements include just one to remember: Black bass must be released immediately. The possession limit for game fish is a two days’ bag limit that includes:

50 Panfish
25 Black Crappie
20 striped, white or sunshine bass (six of those may be 24 inches or longer in total length)
2 Butterfly peacock bass (one of those may be 17 inches or longer in length)
25 American eels (must be 9 inches or greater in length)

couple taking advantage of Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River — Grab a partner and take advantage of Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River next month.

Now all that’s left to do is grab a partner and take advantage of Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River. Remember that license free fishing weekends this year fall on the weekends of April 2-3 and June 11-12.

Need a perfect place to stay for your fishing trip? We offer cabins right on the river and boat rentals. Grab the phone and call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your perfect fishing trip on the river.

Boating Requirements in Florida

Boating is a year round activity here in the Sunshine state. There are a few boating requirements in Florida that must be followed whether you are a seasonal visitor who wants to hit the water to escape the snow back home; or a native looking for a day of fun.

Prepare for Boating in Florida

First, to make sure everyone is on the same page, Florida does not have a “boating license.” What is required however is a Boating Safety Education Identification Card for anyone born after Jan. 1, 1988. The card is proof that the boater passed the approved safety course. Out of state guests can either show proof of boating safety course completion from their home state or obtain a temporary card. Check with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission on obtaining boater education.

There are some boaters who are exempt from obtaining Florida’s boating identification card. Check the list to see who qualifies for an exemption.

Who Can Boat In Florida?

Did you know?

In Florida a boater must be at least 14 years old in order to operate a personal water craft or PWC.
Additionally, a boater must be at least 18 years old to rent a PWC in Florida. This includes not only a boat, but also jet skis and other vessels powered by an inboard motor.

Other Boating Requirements

Just because you have met the boating requirements in Florida does not allow overlooking other rules associated with boating like fishing, diving, skiing.

Everyone on the boat – driver and passengers – along with those being towed behind for skiing must wear a life vest. It’s the law.
If you plan to fish while boating, everyone aboard must have a current fishing license. Also know what type of fish you are catching and the regulations for the species.
Have the proper flags on display while diving or snorkeling from the boat.

There are a number of other requirements to cover fun activities to know while boating. Check with the FWC or other resources like Florida Go Fishing.

Renting a Boat

The rental facility must provide an instructional overview of all boats over 10-horsepower before leaving the dock. This session is to then be followed up with a demonstration on the water to make sure the renters are comfortable with the vessel.

Our staff at Castaways On The River is ready to help you find the right boat to enjoy a day of fun on the St. Johns River. We have a wide array of rental boats to suit your needs. You can request a boat reservation through our website, on our Facebook page or by calling us at (352) 759-3422.

Florida Springs off the St. Johns River

The St. Johns River offers boaters access to some of Florida’s most beautiful freshwater springs along the Ocala National Forest.

Recreational Activities and Wildlife Exploration

Popular among tourists and locals alike, the Florida Springs provides unique opportunities for recreational activity and wildlife exploration.

Visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal clear spring water, which remains at a refreshing average temperature of 70 degrees year round.

The springs are also home to a large bird population and many species of marine wildlife, including manatees.

Benefits of Boating to the Florida Springs

Although you can drive to almost all of the Florida Springs, boating offers a scenic experience we encourage you to try. There are also many great fishing spots along the way.

If you do not own a boat, we have rentals! Start planning your next boating adventure on the St. Johns River to some of Florida’s most breathtaking springs. However, please note that not all springs are accessible from Castaways On The River, so be sure to inquire about available routes and destinations to ensure a delightful and safe journey.

Salt Springs

Salt Springs, on the northern edge of Lake George off the St. Johns River along Salt Springs Run, is a popular spring within the Ocala National Forest.

Visitors can swim and snorkel in the spring. While the spring is home to a variety of turtles, Blue Crabs and bass, fishing and motorized boats are not permitted.

Since Salt Springs is in the Ocala National Forest, the area is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The spring can also be accessed via U.S 19.

Silver Glen Springs

Also off the St. Johns River is Silver Glen Springs at the end of Silver Glen Springs Run off Lake George. The area is another popular spot for tourists. During the cooler winter months, manatee sightings are frequent as they seek warmer water than that of the river.

Silver Glen Springs also sits within the Ocala National Forest. The crystal clear water gives way to swimming, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking and canoeing. Did you know that the spring’s two vents produce an average of 65 million gallons of water daily?

Juniper Springs

A leisurely boat ride along Juniper Creek off the St. Johns River or by land traveling along S.R. 40 will lead to Juniper Springs. The surrounding complex dates to the 1930s making it one of the oldest in the region.

Like other springs in the area where swimmers can enjoy the pristine waters, the spring is also an access point to the Florida Trail/Florida National Scenic Trail in the Ocala National Forest.

Castaways-Hidden-Gems-2-7-15-16-Pin — The St. Johns River offers boaters access to some of Florida’s most beautiful freshwater springs.

The Land of Springs

Several other springs to consider for day trips include Alexander Springs, De Leon Springs and Blue Spring. You can take the St. Johns River or a feeder creek to reach any of these springs.

The First Magnitude Spring

Considered a first magnitude spring, Alexander Spring in Altoona on C.R. 455 is an 8-mile boat ride east of the St. Johns River.

De Leon Spring’s Rich History

De Leon Springs, east of the river, is steeped in history dating back to when the native Mayaca inhabited the area for 6,000 years and the 1500s when the Spanish began building missions in the region.

Manatees at Blue Spring

If you are looking to spot manatees during the winter months, then head to Blue Spring. It’s the largest spring on the St. Johns River and is known as the winter home of manatees in this part of the state. The spring discharges 165 million gallons of water daily.

Boat Rental and Contact Information

Checking out any of the springs in the area is a great way to spend a few hours or make it an all-day outing to enjoy the unique bodies of water. There is really no better way to access many of these sites than by boat. Hop in one of our boat rentals at Castaways on the River.

For St. Johns River news, updates and more, follow us on Facebook, visit our website or give us a call at (352)759-3422.

The Best Bass Fishing on Lake George

The St. Johns River is known for it’s size, lakes and great bass fishing. Also known as the River of Lakes and the Bass Fishing Capital of the World, the St. Johns River offers anglers endless access to many bass fishing spots including Lake George.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC), Lake George maintains an excellent habitat for bass, rich in aquatic vegetation, primarily eelgrass. Whether you are an experienced bass angler or just a beginner, Lake George is a great place to start!

Spots for Bass Fishing on Lake George

Some of Florida’s best bass fishing can be found on Lake George, especially along the shoreline where it is rich in vegetation.

Exceptional areas for bass fishing include western shorelines at Juniper, Salt and Silver Glen springs, which are accessible by Lake George. In the winter, you might also find bass in schools to the south end of Lake George through early spring.

Tips for Bass Fishing on Lake George

Other fishing tips include surface feeding, which is known to attract large schools of striped bass and sunshine bass. The FWC also recommends casting deep-diving crankbaits near old dock structures along the northeast shore and off Drayton Island.

St. Johns River Boat Access

Conveniently located just a few miles from Castaways on the River, visitors can easily access Lake George by boat or jet ski in one of our rentals. We also offer waterfront accommodatons along the St. Johns River, perfect for the weekend or your next extended bass fishing adventure.

Guests can book a boat rental before they stay or bring their boat and dock it onsite. For direct access to Lake George, there is a public boat ramp on the south end of Lake George on Blue Creek Lodge Road, located north of Highway 40.

Learn More About Bass Fishing

For more information about bass fishing along Lake George and other areas of the St. Johns River, visit us online or contact us at (352) 759-3422. For daily updates about fishing and boating along the St. Johns River, follow us on Twitter or Facebook.