Anderson's Outdoor Adventures

08/07/2024

The river has risen and is approaching flood stage. Our staff is securing equipment and our operations will be suspended on the Santa Fe and Suwannee Rivers until the rivers go back down to acceptable levels. We will update everyone on river levels as we will be monitoring daily.

08/06/2024

Post Debby update for Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, Poe Springs Park, And the Santa Fe River between 441 and highway 47

Both Gilchrist Blue Springs, State Park and Poe Springs Park will be open tomorrow, Wednesday, August 7th 2024

As of right now, those Springs are clear and swimming will be open as well as kayak trips and rentals.

We are monitoring the river levels daily and will provide updates for potential flooding and brownouts of the Springs will be posted.

As we recover from the devastation in our area, we do hope that folks will be able to break away some and support their local businesses.

08/04/2024

All of our operations are suspended from 2pm Today until Gilchrist Blue Springs and Poe Springs Parks open backup.

We will notify via Facebook immediately once operations are able to resume.

Thank you.

08/02/2024

This is "One Fun Day - Gainesville - 9x16 - 90 - 2024 (RoundhouseCreative)" by Bailey McClellan on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people…

08/01/2024

As storms approach and uncertainty grows High Springs Whats Happening will share updates, it's crucial to stay informed and prepared but it is to early to predict this storms effect on the High Springs area.

Here are some links to help you navigate the weather:

Mike's Weather Page - With over 1.5 million followers, Mike's Weather Page is a trusted local favorite for storm updates. Stay tuned for the latest changes in storm tracks and conditions.

Check River Levels: Before and after the storm, keep an eye on the Suwannee River and Santa Fe River levels. Visit the Suwannee River Water Management District for real-time river level updates.

City of High Springs- Government For live weather updates, don't forget the weather cameras at the High Springs Canoe Outpost and the High Springs Fire Department. These cameras provide real-time views of local conditions.

Stay Updated with Us: High Springs Whats Happening will share updates to keep you informed. Remember, weather conditions can change rapidly, so stay flexible with your plans.

⚠️ A Note on Weekend Plans: Don't cancel your weekend plans for paddling the Santa Fe River. Local outdoor adventure outfitters located along the Santa Fe River including Anderson's Outdoor Adventures will stayed updated on weather reports keeping their Facebook followers updated! Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so keep an eye on the updates and adjust your plans as needed.

*Stay safe and connected, High Springs! 🌲🛶

07/31/2024

AOA’s Wildlife Wednesday “Kite Birds”

🦅 Discover the enchanting world of Kite Birds along the Santa Fe River! With their elegant, kite-like tails, these birds are a captivating sight as they glide gracefully often performing acrobatic maneuvers to catch insects in mid-air?

Unlike many other birds, Kite Birds are nearly silent fliers. Their smooth, quiet flight helps them sneak up on prey, making them efficient hunters. Kite Birds love to snack on insects, some species of kite birds are also known for eating snails and even small reptiles, their diverse diet helps them thrive in various habitats.

Kite birds are migratory, traveling long distances between breeding and wintering grounds. This makes spotting them a special treat, as they're not around all year and they are seen as symbols of freedom and grace while they glide effortlessly through the sky they can be a truly uplifting experience. 🕊️💫

As you paddle the Santa Fe River with Anderson’s Outdoor Adventures, keep your eyes peeled for these stunning creatures, adding a magical touch of natures beauty to your Santa Fe River adventure.. 🚣‍♂️🌟

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07/24/2024

🌿AOA’s Wildlife Wednesday: The Pesky "Caydabs” 🦗

Florida's infamous "Cicadas"—often called "Caydabs" in local slang, these small, noisy insects are a summer staple, known for their loud, buzzing songs that fill the evening air.

🌞 Evening Invasion: As the sun sets, Caydabs come out in droves, attracted to lights and moisture. Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening on the porch or hosting a BBQ, these critters are sure to make their presence known!

🦟 Pesky Ways: Caydabs are notorious for their sudden, noisy appearances. Their loud buzzing is actually a mating call made by males to attract females, and while it can be annoying, it’s a natural part of their life cycle.

✨ Fun Facts: Despite being considered pesky, Caydabs are harmless to humans and play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Did you know their life cycle is only every 13 or 17 years?

🍃 Nature's Reminder: These insects remind us of the vibrant and diverse ecosystem in Florida. While they can be a nuisance, they also signify the richness of our natural environment.

AOA would like any tips or tricks for dealing with these noisy Caydabs in the comment below for our loyal followers, and let's appreciate the wild side of the Santa Fe River together! 🐞🍃

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07/19/2024

Join Us for Aliyah's Special Event!

🗓 Date: July 19, 2024
🕖 Time: 7 PM - 10 PM
📍 Location: The Great Outdoors Restaurant

🌟 Don't miss out on an unforgettable evening filled with fun, laughter, and memories! This event is hosted by The Great Outdoors, featuring the Been There Done That band, and two incredibly awesome women, Pam and Brooke, along with a fantastic group of local businesses all pulling together for a wonderful common cause. 🌟

Please come join us to help this amazing family!! We will have a silent auction, 50/50 raffles, Aleyah appetizers, and all proceeds go to this family. Cash or checks only (we do have Venmo/Cash App).

✨ Bring your friends and family, and let's make this night one to remember! Hope to see you there!!



Thank you to all of our local businesses that have donated:
High Springs Whats Happening
Anderson's Outdoor Adventures
Joy's Kitchen Fixin's
High Springs Brewing Company
Watershed Restaurant
University Air Center
Scentsy
oceansliquor.com/shop
And more…..

07/17/2024

🌞🦋 AOA’s Wildlife Wednesday “Dragonfly” 🌿✨

Have you ever been enchanted by the delicate dance of dragonflies during a North Florida summer? These mesmerizing creatures aren't just pretty faces—they're fascinating little wonders!

Here are some fun facts and quirky tidbits about our summertime friends:

*Nature’s Acrobat: Dragonflies can fly in all six directions—up, down, forward, backward, and side to side! They’re like the aerial gymnasts of the insect world.

*Landing Buddies: Ever had a dragonfly land on you? It’s considered a sign of good luck! These friendly fliers often perch on us, soaking up the sun and resting their wings.

*Speed Racers: With speeds up to 30 miles per hour, dragonflies are some of the fastest insects around. 🏎️💨

*Winged Wonders: Dragonflies have two sets of wings that can operate independently, allowing them to perform incredible aerial stunts. Their wings are also iridescent, reflecting beautiful colors in the sunlight.

*Mosquito Munchers: These tiny hunters are natural pest controllers, feasting on mosquitoes and other small insects. One dragonfly can eat hundreds of mosquitoes in a single day!

*Lifespan Lore: Dragonflies spend most of their lives underwater as nymphs before emerging as the stunning flyers we see. They can live up to 7 years as nymphs and only a few months as adults.

Let their vibrant presence of majestic dragonflies remind you to appreciate the little wonders of nature's landscapes of North Florida along the Santa Fe River while paddling.

Have you had a dragonfly moment this summer? Share your stories and pics with us! 📸👇



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Kayaking • Canoeing • Scenic Experiences
Pontoon Boating • Golf Cart Rentals • RV Rental

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07/10/2024

AOA’s Wildlife Wednesday “Green Anole”

This week, we’re featuring the hilarious antics of the Green Anole. These little lizards are not just fascinating; they’re also full of personality and humor!

🌿 Chameleon Wannabe: Watch out! Green Anoles can change their color from green to brown, often leading to funny situations where they seem to “disappear” right before your eyes.

💪 Tiny Bodybuilders: Male anoles love to show off by doing exaggerated head bobs and extending their bright red throat fans (dewlaps). It’s like watching a tiny lizard bodybuilding competition!

🧗 Sticky Toes: These acrobatic lizards can stick to almost any surface, leading them to explore the most unexpected places in the quirkiest ways.

🤔 Curious Creatures: Ever feel like you’re being watched? That might be a Green Anole tilting its head and giving you a comically inquisitive look.

Next time you see one of these charming lizards, take a moment to appreciate their quirky charm and share your sightings with us on the comments!

🦎🌿

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07/03/2024

🚤AOA’s Wildlife Wednesday “Operation Dry Water” Boat safe, boat sober!

🛥️ This July 4-6, FWC officers will be out in full force for Operation Dry Water, promoting awareness and heightened enforcement against Boating Under the Influence (BUI).

The 4th of July is one of the busiest boating holidays, and Independence Day celebrations often lead to fatal accidents due to excessive alcohol and drug use. Our mission is to reduce these incidents and keep our waterways safe, especially along the Santa Fe River in High Springs. Remember, a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher makes it illegal to operate any vessel. Stay safe—designate a sober operator, wear a life jacket, and take a boating education course.

FWC’s Maj. Bill Holcomb says, “The safety of everyone enjoying our beautiful waterways here in Florida is a year-round priority for our officers.”

You can also expect multiple sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols statewide, including Poe Springs Road and the High Springs area. Impaired driving and boating are not only dangerous but also illegal. Police will also be on land ensuring safety on our local roadways.

Anderson's Outdoor Adventures wishes everyone a safe and happy 4th of July, enjoying this mid-summer holiday with a kayak trip along our beautiful Santa Fe River. Let’s enjoy the 4th of July holiday safely and responsibly. And hey, nothing says "family fun" like keeping everyone in one piece! 😄

🚤 Don't drink and drive, be safe and have fun!

aoafun.com
352-507-0059
[email protected]

06/29/2024

🏊‍♀️ AOA’s Tube Rentals at Poe Springs!

Planning a fun day at Poe Springs? Don’t miss out on our tube rentals for just $10! After floating down the spring run, treat yourself to some mouthwatering BBQ at the Poe Springs Concession.

Enjoy our Poe Nachos with pulled pork, chili, and cheese, or classic Nachos & Cheese with optional jalapenos or a savory Pulled Pork Sandwich (Add Slaw). For those hotdog lovers we have the classic Plain, the flavorful Chilidog and of course our signature Poe Dog and Springs Dog. Don’t forget to grab a side of Coleslaw or Chips to complete your meal!

Cool down from the summer heat with our refreshing Lemonade Signature flavors like Dixie Delight with blueberry juice, Summer Smash with watermelon juice, or Santa Fe Splash with strawberry puree.

Make your day at Poe Springs unforgettable with tubing fun and tasty BBQ delights at Poe Springs Park in High Springs! 🌟

aoafun.com
Call: 352-507-0059
Email.: [email protected]

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06/29/2024

Current weather radar looks favorable. Probably see scattered showers this afternoon. At this moment it does not appear to be any major areas of concern

06/28/2024

Ready for an outdoor adventure? Anderson's Outdoor Adventures has got you covered! This weekend, head over to the Santa Fe River Park for some pre-4th of July fun with our walk-up kayak and canoe rentals!

🚣‍♀️ Whether you're an experienced paddler or just looking for a fun family activity, we've got the perfect setup for you. Just find the big cage with all the kayaks and canoes at the Santa Fe Park (47 Bridge) and you're good to go!

📅 Dates: Saturday, Sunday, Monday 🕘 Time: Starting at 9 am

📍 Location: Santa Fe River Park, 8500 NE State Rd. 47, High Springs FL 32643

🌞 Make the most of your summer with a paddle down the beautiful Santa Fe River!

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Email. [email protected]

Kayaking • Canoeing • Scenic Experiences • Pontoon Boating • Golf Cart Rentals • RV Rental

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Secure your Florida Springs Passport @ https://floridaspringspassport.com/?sca_ref=5960035.hMHN47vBbP

06/26/2024

AOA’s Wildlife Wednesday has gone nuts with “Coconuts”

🌴🍹 Happy National Coconut Day! Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or just soaking up the Florida sun along the Santa Fe River, coconuts are your perfect summer companion and a true superfood!

Fun Facts:
*The entire coconut can be used: from its water, milk, and oil to its husk and shell.
*Florida’s warm climate makes it an ideal place for growing coconuts.
*Coconut oil is packed with MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides), which help boost energy and support weight loss.

Health Benefits:
*MCTs in coconut oil can increase fat burning and provide quick energy.
*Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer for your skin and hair, keeping them healthy and silky.
*Coconuts are high in fiber, Vitamin B6, iron, and essential minerals like magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, and zinc.
* Its antiviral and anti-microbial properties help protect your body.

Culinary Uses:
*Coconut oil’s flavor enhancers dishes and is a healthy alternative to other oils.
*Shredded coconut and coconut milk add delicious sweetness for those favorite summertime sweet treats..
*Coconut milk is a fantastic dairy-free option for those cool treats like ice cream and Piña Coladas (Yummm)

Share your favorite coconut tips and tricks for those dreaded summertime sunburns in the comments below…

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06/19/2024

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Hidden Gems USA Travel
High Springs Whats Happening

06/19/2024

AOA’s Wildlife Wednesday “Banana Spiders”

Ever seen a Banana Spider up close? 🕷️ These amazing creatures are a summertime spectacle in the Florida outdoors! Their striking yellow and black webs shimmer in the sunshine, making them one of the coolest insects around. 🌿

Did you know that despite their intimidating size, Banana Spiders are harmless to humans?

They’re actually great for controlling the bug population! 🐛❌

Fun Facts:
🕸️ Banana Spiders can spin webs up to 6 feet wide!
🌸 Their webs are so strong, they’ve been used in textiles and fishing.
🕷️ They’re also known as Golden Silk Orb-Weavers due to their golden-colored silk.

Educational Tidbits:
*Banana Spiders play a crucial role in the ecosystem by keeping insect populations in check, which helps maintain a balance in the environment.
*Female Banana Spiders are significantly larger than males, often up to three times their size!
*Their vibrant web is not just for catching prey but also acts as a visual deterrent to birds and other large animals, preventing web damage.
*These spiders are expert web builders, often reconstructing their intricate webs every night.

So next time you’re out exploring, keep an eye out for these fascinating arachnids – nature's own web designers! 🕸️

What’s the coolest critter you’ve seen this summer on the Santa Fe River? Drop a comment below! 👇

aoafun.com
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06/16/2024

Happy Father's Day to all the great Dads out there!

06/15/2024

Enjoy your weekend singing your favorite jams while paddling the Santa Fe River with Anderson’s Outdoor Adventures… 🏄🏻‍♀️🚣‍♀️🏊‍♂️💦

06/13/2024

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTN1meEV3/

Check out AOAFUN’s video.

06/12/2024

🐚 AOA’s Wildlife Wednesday “Dive into Bay Scallop Season” 🐚

The 2024 recreational bay scallop season in the HERE – Suwannee River Zone opens on June 15 and runs through Labor Day, September 2. This includes all state waters in Dixie County, parts of Taylor County (Keaton Beach and Steinhatchee), and parts of Levy County.

Daily Bag Limits:
*June 15-30: 1 gallon whole bay scallops (in shell) or 1 cup shucked meat per person.
*Max per vessel: 5 gallons whole or 2 pints shucked meat.

*July 1 - Labor Day: 2 gallons whole bay scallops (in shell) or 1 pint shucked meat per person.
*Max per vessel: 10 gallons whole or 4 pints shucked meat.

Remember, vessel limits can't exceed individual bag limits. Only hand or dip nets are allowed for harvesting, and commercial harvest is prohibited.

🌊 Important Info:
*Regulations: Check out MyFWC.com/Marine for detailed rules.
*Licenses: A Florida saltwater fishing license is required unless exempt. Get yours at *GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or call 888-FISH-FLORIDA.

🛥️ Boater and Scalloper Safety:
*Stay within 300 feet of a divers-down flag in open water (100 feet in rivers or channels).
*Operate at idle speed near divers-down flags.

🌱 Seagrass Awareness:
*Avoid damaging seagrass beds. Stick to marked channels to protect these vital habitats.

🗑️ Stow It, Don’t Throw It:
*Dispose of scallop shells properly. Don’t leave them in recreational areas.
*Secure your trash to prevent littering.
*Enjoy the season responsibly and make the most of your scalloping adventure! For more info, visit MyFWC.com/Marine.

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06/07/2024

Enjoy a refreshing getaway with Anderson's Outdoor Adventures Rum Island adventure trip this hot summer weekend..💦🏄🏻‍♀️🏊‍♂️🚣‍♀️🧘‍♂️

www.aoafun.com
Anderson's Outdoor Adventures
High Springs Whats Happening

06/05/2024

AOA's Wildlife Wednesday “World Environment Day”

World Environment Day is celebrated on June 5th, was established by the United Nations in 1972 and first held in 1973. The event originated from the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm, Sweden, and has since grown immensely. Initially, it was a small-scale event, but now it has become a global platform involving over 150 countries each year, engaging millions of people in environmental action. The day highlights various critical issues, from pollution and climate change to sustainable development and wildlife conservation.

Join Anderson's Outdoor Adventures as we celebrate World Environment Day! Dive into a day of eco-friendly fun on the Santa Fe River in North Florida. Discover the magic of our aquifers and how they keep our natural resources safe while enjoying activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and guided tours. This special day is perfect to remind you to bring your family, friends, and fellow nature lovers for an unforgettable adventure along the Santa Fe River. Let’s make a difference together, enjoying nature while protecting our planet.

*RSVP Your Summer Paddle Adventure @ aoafun.com

05/30/2024

PSA!
With the Suwannee river flooding and many of those springs being browned out and the high temperatures will be driving more folks to the springs on the Santa Fe River. Especially Gilchrist Blue, Rum Island, and Poe Springs.

Please everyone be kind and patient. We would love to see everyone this weekend.

Our springs are clear and beautiful. Please help us keep them that way by disposing of trash appropriately and recycle ♻️.

Water levels between 441 bridge and 47
bridge on the Santa Fe River are perfect.

http://www.mysuwanneeriver.org/realtime/river-levels.php

05/30/2024

🚣‍♂️🏊‍♀️🏄🏻‍♀️💦

Dive deep into the crystal clear waters of Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park just a half hour from Gainesville, FL 💙

Fun Fact: Gilchrist Blue Springs is the newest addition to Florida State Parks!

Here you'll find several springs including a large second-magnitude spring that produces an average of 44 million gallons of water per day 💦

Who's adding this to their Florida travel plans?

📍: Gilchrist Blue Springs, Florida State Parks

05/29/2024

🌞AOA’s Wildlife Wednesday “Happy National Alligator Day”! 🐊

Today, Wednesday, May 29, we celebrate these toothy wonders on ! Yes, it’s a real holiday (I checked!).

FUN FACTS
🐊 Alligators are great at hide and seek—mainly because they were once hunted nearly to extinction for their hides! Thankfully, they’ve made a huge comeback and now live in all 67 counties of Florida. Talk about a gator-nation!
🦷 Got a toothache? Alligators don’t! They can go through 3,000 teeth in their lifetime. Dentists everywhere are jealous.
💤 Gator Nap Time: Alligators can hold their breath for up to 24 hours. So, if you think you’re a pro at naps, think again.
🏃 Speedy Swimmers: They might look lazy, but alligators can swim up to 20 mph. Michael Phelps, watch out!
🌡️ Cold-Blooded Party Animals: Alligators are ectothermic, meaning their body temperature depends on their environment. Perfect for those sunny Florida days!
💧 Santa Fe River Residents: Next time you're at the Santa Fe River or exploring Florida's natural springs, keep an eye out—you might just spot one of these incredible creatures basking in the sun or gliding through the crystal-clear waters!

National Alligator Day?
*When? This day will take place on May 29 of each calendar year.
*What? A day to learn why the alligator is such an incredible animal.
*Why? For Floridians to be educated about alligators since they are in our backyards.
*Who? This day was created in February 2021 by Wild Florida Airboats.

How to celebrate or observe? This day should be celebrated by learning all of the interesting facts about the American alligator and taking a day out to the Wild Florida Gator Park, where we have rescued gators and work to learn more about them. Celebrate responsibly, keep your distance🐊

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05/27/2024

Check out what's new at Poe Springs Park on the Santa Fe River! BBQ, kayaking, tube rentals, chair rentals, and amazing Signature Series Lemonades made with fresh fruit!

Looking to have a group gathering like family reunions, company picnic l, and church outing we have wonderful pavilions and a lodge. We cater onsite with our slow smoked BBQ.

https://www.aoafun.com/poe