CANOE RENTALS IN NORTHWEST FLORIDA

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Trip Options: 1-Hour • 3-Hour • Full-Day • Overnight

Shuttle Service: Included with all rentals

$30 per person, per day

All ages welcome

Canoe, paddles, and life jackets provided

Canoe Rentals in Northwest Florida

Renting a canoe at Blackwater Joe’s is one of the top outdoor adventures in Northwest Florida. Launch from our private riverside property in Milton, Florida, and enjoy a peaceful float along the calm waters of the Blackwater River, surrounded by towering pines and sugar-white sandbars.

Whether you're a first-time paddler or a seasoned explorer, our canoe trips offer a refreshing way to connect with nature — just a short drive from Crestview, Holt, and Pensacola.

Your Adventure Awaits

Canoeing the Blackwater River is more than just a float — it’s a journey through one of Florida’s last untouched river systems. With tea-colored waters, shaded bends, and sugar-white sandbars, this peaceful river winds through miles of protected pine forest in Blackwater River State Forest.

What makes Blackwater Joe’s different? We’re proud to have the northernmost canoe access point on the river — giving you more time on the water, less walking, and a truly immersive outdoor experience. Our private launch site is designed for easy loading and stress-free shuttles, so you can focus on what matters most: the ride.

Whether you're gliding silently past herons, relaxing with your family, or making stops at sandbars for a snack and swim, you’ll quickly understand why paddlers return here year after year.

What’s included with my canoe rental?

Each rental includes a stable canoe, paddles, and U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for all participants. We also include shuttle service — we’ll drop you off upstream, and you’ll paddle back to our private headquarters with no pickups needed.
How long are the canoe trips, and what are my options?

You can choose between 1-hour, 3-hour, or full-day floats. The 1-hour option is great for beginners or families with young children. Our full-day trip is perfect if you want to spend time on sandbars, swim, or just enjoy a slow, scenic paddle. Final shuttle leaves at 3 PM — all trips must return by 5 PM.
Where do we launch and return?

We launch from our private access point near Holt, which is the northernmost canoe launch on the Blackwater River. That means more time paddling, less time walking, and the most scenic stretch of the river. All trips return directly to our property — no car shuffling required.
Is this good for beginners or kids?

Yes! The Blackwater River is known for calm, shallow waters and gentle current. It's one of the most beginner-friendly rivers in Florida. We welcome families with kids of all ages.
What should I bring?

We recommend: Sunscreen Water bottles or a cooler River shoes or sandals A towel and dry bag for valuables Snacks or lunch if you're out for a while A positive attitude — this is a laid-back float!
Can I bring my dog?

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome in the canoe. Please make sure they’re comfortable on the water, and we recommend bringing a pet life jacket for safety.
Where are you located?

Blackwater Joe’s is located at 12375 Shammah Road in Holt, FL — just east of Milton and convenient to Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola, and surrounding areas in Northwest Florida.
Do I need to book in advance?

We highly recommend booking in advance to guarantee your spot, especially on weekends and holidays. Limited walk-up availability may be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.