Juniper Creek...

Paddling in the Florida Panhandle

Juniper Creek is a paddling destination near Milton, FL. The scenic 6-mile designated trail is a pleasant paddle, with a moderate 2-3 mph current, tea-colored water, mostly sandy bottom, and few if any obstructions (not to be confused with Juniper Run in the Ocala National Forest). While sometimes listed by outfitters nearby, we could locate none who would provide rental or shuttle services for Juniper Creek. Bring your own kayak and paddle up and back from your launch, or use two cars to shuttle. No crowds help make it a local favorite. We agree, among the best "small water" paddling trails in Florida. (Detailed map and photos below)

Paddle Florida Panhandle, Juniper Creek, Kayak, Canoe

Juniper Creek Paddling Map

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Distance: 6 mile designated trail
Location: Santa Rosa County (Milton)
Difficulty: Easy
Tidal: No
Launch points: Red Rock Road bridge, Indian Ford Road bridge (both accessed off SR191 north of Milton) (See map)
Nearby Points of interest: Milton, Navarre Beach

Rentals/Outfitters/Tours:

N/A

Page Summary:

Paddling on Juniper Creek
- Launches
- On the Creek
More Information and Resources

Paddling on Juniper Creek... Comments and Photos

The creek has areas with banks 5 or 10 feet high, and many sandbars for stretching or picnicking; camping is allowed. The Florida Trail parallels the creek and hikers may be seen. The hardwood forest includes pine, juniper, cypress and magnolia. Wildlife include birds, deer, fish and turtles; there also have been reports of bear, otter and bobcats, but other than some birds and small fish we saw no wildlife on this trip.

Launches

The launches are located at the side of the road next to the bridges with no facilities - at Red Rock Road is a wide beach and easy launch, at Indian Ford the launch is a little steeper with some erosion but still very manageable.

Launch at Indian Ford Road bridge

Launch area at Indian Ford Road

Launch area

Indian Ford Bridge

Creek at Indian Ford Bridge

Turn-off from road to parking

Launch at Red Rock Road bridge

Launch area at Red Rock Road bridge

Turn-off from road to launch

Red Rock Road Bridge

Creek at Red Rock Road bridge

Paddling on the Creek

We launched from Indian Ford Road bridge and paddled upstream about 2.5 miles, then a leisurely float back. Clear, shallow, tea-colored water. Many sandbars. Popular with the locals, we met other paddlers along the creek.