Jungle Creek 2

Central West Florida

The Chassahowitzka River, located 30 minutes south of the more famous Crystal River, provides a less crowded but also spectacular paddling adventure. ‘The Chaz’ river contains a vast tangle of saltwater marshes and wild islands. At the head of the river is a narrow, winding spring creek that seems to transport you to a tropical jungle. The water quickly turns turquoise as you make your way up to the head spring. The cool swimming hole is a welcome refuge after a long paddle on a sunny Florida day.  Also see the original panoramic version of this photograph.