‍ ‍PaddleFest 2027 is Bound for Inglis, Florida!

‍Ready your paddles and pack your dry bags—PaddleFest 2027 is bringing paddlers together at Caruth Camp in Inglis, Florida, April 15 – 18, 2027!

Channeling the beloved spirit of classic Hidden Coast Paddle events, Florida Paddling Trails invites you to PaddleFest 2027!

Nestled along Florida’s Nature Coast, Caruth Camp places us at the nexus of crystal-clear freshwater rivers and open saltwater paddling opportunities on the Gulf. Nestled where ancient freshwater rivers meet the sprawling Gulf horizon, Inglis is a hidden jewel of wild Florida. Whether you glide through mystical, moss-draped cypress creeks and rivers or chart a course across sun-dappled open coastal waters, this weekend promises pure enchantment on the water. From first-time kayakers to veteran thru-paddlers of the 1,515-mile Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail (CT), the energy, shared skills, and camaraderie proves that our love for the water knows no borders.

What to Expect

  • Paddles for All Skill Levels: Choose from scenic freshwater river drifts or coastal saltwater excursions tailored for beginners, intermediate paddlers, and seasoned pros.

  • NEW: Dedicated SUP Excursions: For the first time, we are launching guided trips and technique sessions specifically designed for Stand-Up Paddleboarders.

  • ACA-Led Training: Upgrade your on-water skills with safety, stroke technique, and rescue clinics taught by certified American Canoe Association (ACA) instructors.

  • Featured Speakers: Gain insights from local trail experts, conservationists, and wildlife photograhers during our evening presentations.

• Raffle & Gear Giveaway: Win high-end paddling gear, outdoor accessories, and local eco-tours at our Saturday evening raffle.

  • Meals: Most meals (Dinner / Breakfast) will be provided.

‍Weekend at a Glance:

  • Thursday April 15: Arrival & setup, registration, afternoon warm-up paddle, and a welcoming evening bonfire.

  • Friday, April 16: Continue Arrival & setup, registration, afternoon warm-up paddle, and a welcoming evening bonfire.

  • Saturday, April 17: Morning ACA training modules and full-day freshwater/saltwater trips; late afternoon speaker series; evening dinner and raffle.

  • Sunday, April 18: Morning specialty SUP and kayak paddles, closing remarks, and wrap-up by noon.

Basecamp and Registration

* Venue: Caruth Camp provides convenient launch access to both fresh and saltwater routes, plus on-site group gathering areas.

* Who Should Attend: Open to kayakers, canoeists, and paddle boarders of all experience levels. (note: some paddles may be restricted by experience and type of paddlecraft)

* Lodging & Camping: Details on Caruth Camp site reservations and nearby lodging options will be posted shortly.

* Registration Opening Soon: Early-bird registration opens [Insert Date]. Sign up early to secure your spot for high-demand ACA training clinics and guided trips!

Want to be a part of this event?

Building on the work that we did for last years event, PaddleFest 2027 at Caruth Camp will provide more diverse paddling waterways and will keep that “summer camp” for adults feel.

  • Paddlers: Keep your paddles ready and stay tuned for our location drop and early-bird registration coming later this year.

  • Sponsors and Vendors: If you are a brand or vendor looking for visibility in the paddling market in the South Eastern United States, reach out to us today at derry.walsh@floridapaddlingtrails.com to secure your spot for 2027!