Vernon, Florida

Get Up And Go Kayaking is a premier clear kayak tour company headquartered in Florida, with additional locations across Texas, Tennessee, and North Carolina. Established in 2016, it has grown from a small startup into the world’s highest-rated clear kayak tour provider, recognized by TripAdvisor and USA Today. The company is distinguished by its use of 100% transparent kayaks, allowing paddlers to observe underwater wildlife and natural features directly beneath them. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, the tours highlight unique flora and fauna while promoting environmental stewardship and conservation. With over 30 locations, including iconic Florida waterways such as Crystal River, Weeki Wachee, and Rainbow Springs, the company offers an unparalleled perspective on some of the most beautiful and ecologically significant waterways in the United States. The tours cater to paddlers of all experience levels, providing an accessible and immersive outdoor adventure suitable for individuals, families, and small groups. Each guided excursion features tandem clear kayaks designed for two paddlers, with expert instruction and safety equipment provided. Guests can expect intimate group sizes, typically capped at ten participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The company emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including passive wildlife observation and partnerships with conservation organizations like Save The Manatee Club. Whether exploring mangrove tunnels, hidden sandbars, or manatee habitats, participants enjoy a unique blend of education, recreation, and connection to nature, making each outing both memorable and meaningful.

Friends of Camp Helen State Park is a Citizens Support Organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing Camp Helen State Park, located on Lake Powell in Florida. The park spans 800 acres and features the largest coastal dune lake in the northern hemisphere, where a unique blend of saltwater and freshwater creates a diverse brackish ecosystem. This natural setting offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience a variety of wildlife and scenic landscapes. The organization supports the park through volunteer projects, community events, and fundraising efforts, ensuring the preservation of this valuable natural resource for future generations. The organization facilitates a range of outdoor activities including kayaking, paddleboarding, bird-watching, hiking, and fishing, although kayak rentals are temporarily unavailable as they work to resume this service. They also provide fishing clinics and host several community events throughout the year, such as the Americana Concert series, Fall Festival, and International Coastal Clean-up. These offerings cater to nature enthusiasts and families seeking educational and recreational experiences in a pristine environment. The Friends of Camp Helen encourage visitors to enjoy the park responsibly, emphasizing conservation and respect for the delicate ecosystem.