Life Is Better on the Wekiva River

Designated National Wild & Scenic River

Plan Your River Adventure

Discover the Outstandingly Remarkable Values

The Wekiva River System

The Wekiva River System is located within central Florida, including parts of Lake, Orange, and Seminole counties. The river system is just north of Orlando, one of Florida’s principal metropolitan areas with a rapidly growing population. The system is unique with its second magnitude springs, blackwater streams, creeks, runs, and more. It is a riverine oasis in this urbanized area of central Florida.

National Wild & Scenic River System Designation

The Wekiva River together with Wekiwa Springs Run, Rock Springs Run and Black Water Creek were designated by the United States Congress as a National Wild and Scenic River in October 2000. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act states that in order for a river to be eligible for designation it must be “free-flowing” and must possess one or more “outstandingly remarkable” values.

Our 5 Outstanding Remarkable Values:
  • Scenic
  • Recreation
  • Wildlife and Habitat
  • Water Quality and Quantity
  • Historic and Cultural Resources

Report a Wekiva Manatee Sighting!

Sharing information about manatee sightings on the Wild and Scenic Wekiva River contributes to the conservation efforts for these gentle creatures. By reporting sightings, citizens help in tracking the manatee population, understanding their migration patterns, and identifying their most frequented habitats. This information is vital for researchers and conservationists in creating effective protection plans and ensuring safe environments for manatees.

Discover the Wekiva Wild & Scenic River

The Wekiva River system is a nationally treasured landscape and outstanding scenic resource that offers many opportunities to experience a unique part of natural Florida. Please help us to enjoy and protect this resource with our local “Paddle Wekiva” guide to canoeing and kayaking opportunities all along our beautiful river system.

How Do YOU River?

Fishing Areas

Kayaking & Canoeing

Bird Watching

Learning Resources

Hiking Trails

Biking Trails

Picnic Areas

Camping Sites

Wekiva River Management Plan

The Wekiva Wild and Scenic River System Management Plan serves as the basis for protecting a designated river’s values to ensure the river will be protected in perpetuity for future generations to enjoy. The Management Plan was developed by the Wekiva River System Advisory Management Committee (AMC) in collaboration with the National Park Service (NPS) to fulfill this enabling legislation requirement. Originally created in 2012, the plan was given a comprehensive update in 2023.

Help Us Protect The Wekiva River

River Ambassadors fill critical roles on behalf of the Wekiva Wild and Scenic River System Management Advisory Committee, providing essential visitor services and supporting an “on the water” stewardship program. These vounteer positions include:

  • Education & Outreach
  • River Patrol
  • Promotion of Stewardship
  • Resource Management