This site will be updated periodically with information concerning conditions and changes to the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. If you have any problems, complaints, or observe damage or vandalism to signs, fire rings, etc. along the trail we would appreciate you letting us know. Call (850)488-5520 or e-mail us at bbpaddling@myfwc.com.

October 23, 2008

Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission staff recently surveyed all the campsites along the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail (BBSPT) to maintain and mow each site. We are happy to report all the sites are in good shape and no major storm damage has occurred in the past year.

Because there is no funding source to support paddling trails, the economic downturn and resulting budget constraints have forced us to cancel our maintenance contractor. We are looking for volunteers who are able to visit the campsites by powerboat or airboat to mow the areas with a weed trimmer, cut any encroaching vegetation, and report any damage or vandalism problems. Volunteers need to provide their own equipment and safety gear.

To visit all seven sites it takes a total of two days. The long length of the trail and distance between campsites is time consuming and working with low tides makes accessing the sites a challenge with any type of boat. If you have interest please contact Liz Sparks at 850-922-6160.

August 24, 2007

We now have a new reservation system for the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Go on-line to check trip availability, reserve campsites, and download permits by accessing this link: reservation system.

February 6, 2006

A couple of items have been brought to our attention by paddlers that have utilized the Big Bend Trail during the 2005-06 season. Here are some notable updates:

At the take-out in the town of Suwannee on Salt Creek, parking is available at the Suwannee Community Center just south of the Salt Creek ramp and across the street, not the Chamber of Commerce, as noted in the guide on page 11. This applies to those paddling Trip 4 and to through-paddlers on Trip 1 who wish to leave vehicles at the take-out.
The channel marker noted on page 20 of the paddling guide that defines the entrance to Spring Warrior Creek is no longer in place. Follow the GPS coordinates in the guide and watch the rooftops of the town of Spring Warrior to locate the channel and camp site.
Remember - Always pay attention to tides. Time your trip to allow enough time to reach campsites during periods of high water. Be prepared to pull boats to or from campsites during low tides. The most challenging locations are Dallus Creek and Sink Creek which can both be difficult to access at low tide.

December 14, 2006

The following information affects paddlers using the final take-out point on Trip 1 and Trip 4. The access point mentioned in the paddling guide on page 39 for Salt Creek in the town of Suwannee has been closed. A new paddling launch is available next to the Suwannee Community Center building. To locate the launch from the water paddle up Salt Creek following channel markers and look for the number 28 red triangular channel marker. Directly opposite the marker on the right (south) is a small canal. Turn into the canal and continue paddling around the curving channel until you see the white block Community Center building and launch on your left. Overnight parking is available here also.

June 4, 2005

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission is proud to announce the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail was recently awarded designation as a National Recreation Trail during National Trails Day June 4th, 2005. The Big Bend Paddling Trail was one of 37 trails in 23 states to receive this award. National Recreation Trail designation is an honor given out to those existing trails that have been nominated and meet the requirements for connecting people to local resources and improving their quality of life. The national trail designation is part of a continuing campaign to promote community partnerships and to foster innovative ways to encourage physical fitness. The National Trails System Act of 1968 encourages the Secretary of the Interior to recognize existing community trails that qualify as additions to the National Trails System. The Act promotes enjoyment and appreciation of trails and greater public access.

May, 2005

The Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail was placed on the American Canoe Association’s inaugural list of ACA-recommended trails. It was selected as one of 12 trails across the nation by the ACA as a particularly good destination for paddlers.

April 26, 2005

FWC recently added a seventh primitive camping site to the Big Bend Paddling Trail on the banks of the Econfina River. The site is 0.4 miles downstream from the public boat ramp where private camping and lodging is also available. The site is posted with our standard campsite sign on the west bank of the river. The GPS coordinates are N 30.03.23 / W 83.54.70.

If you find the campsite occupied please continue upstream to the boat ramp and inquire at the small convenience store about the private camping area.

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