Central Florida's crystal-clear springs and wild state parks are some of the best-kept secrets near Orlando. After countless weekends paddling, snorkeling, and camping from our Kissimmee home base, these are the Amazon gear essentials I pack for spri...
A packable inflatable kayak opens up Florida's spring runs and lazy rivers without needing a roof rack. We inflate ours at Rock Springs and Wekiwa in minutes.
Inflatable Kayak (Packable)
An inflatable SUP is perfect for gliding over the glass-clear water at the springs. It deflates into a backpack so it fits in any trunk.
Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP)
The springs are full of fish, turtles, and even manatees in winter. A good mask and snorkel turns a swim into an underwater safari.
Snorkel Mask & Fin Set
Keeps phones, keys, and snacks bone-dry on the kayak or at the spring's edge. We never hit the water without one.
Waterproof Dry Bag
For capturing the springs without risking your phone. The floating design means it won't sink if it slips out of your hand.
Floating Waterproof Phone Pouch
Hauling coolers, chairs, and gear from the lot to the spring is brutal. A big-wheel folding wagon makes the trek easy over sand and grass.
Collapsible All-Terrain Beach Wagon
These pack tiny and dry fast in the Florida humidity. We keep a set in the car for spontaneous spring stops.
Quick-Dry Microfiber Towels
Spring bottoms and riverbeds can be rocky and slippery. A grippy pair of water shoes saves toes and makes wading comfortable.
Quick-Dry Water Shoes
Keeps drinks and lunch ice-cold through a long, hot day at the springs. The 70-degree water is refreshing but the air sure isn't.
Hard-Sided Cooler
For overnighting at Wekiwa, Kelly Park, or any Central Florida state-park campground. Look for great ventilation to handle those warm, humid nights.
Easy Setup Camping Tent
A comfortable sleeping pad makes a Florida campground night actually restful. Lightweight and easy to pack with the rest of the gear.
Camping Sleeping Pad
Florida mosquitoes at a campsite are no joke. A Thermacell creates a bug-free zone around camp with no sprays or smoke.
Thermacell Mosquito Repeller
Hands-free light for setting up camp after dark or a night walk to the bathhouse. Rechargeable means no scrambling for batteries.
Rechargeable LED Headlamp
Lightweight folding chairs for the campsite or the spring's edge. They pack down small and set up in seconds.
