Paddle the day away.

Fun on the water is never far away in Gainesville. Take your pick. Lake, river even the ocean is relatively close. Lake Wauburg, one of the many lakes in the area, is located just 8-miles south of town and is a relaxing place to spend a few hours canoeing, kayaking, or boating on the water. For half-day or all-day adventure, head to the scenic Santa Fe River near High Springs. You'll experience crystal-clear freshwater, abundant wildlife and incredible natural formations. Plenty of outfitters, like the Santa Fe Canoe Outpost that lets you bring your own canoes or kayaks or rent one, will help you launch and pick you up at the end. O'Leno State Park is also up that way. The park features sinkholes, hardwood hammocks, river swamps, and sandhills. As the river courses through the park, it disappears underground and reemerges over three miles away in the River Rise State Preserve. Regardless of the route you choose, canoeing and kayaking is a great way to view birds, turtles, otters, deer and other wildlife in its natural environment.