Florida’s Most Underrated River: Why You Need to Paddle the Chaz
Typically, when most people plan their trips near Citrus County, Florida they often look to doing tours at Rainbow Springs, Three Sister Springs, Weeki Wachee, or others. However, there is another location that often gets overlooked! Usually only known to the locals, the Chassahowitzka River–lovingly known as the Chaz–is a beautiful area that offers an abundance of natural wonders and a peaceful experience away from the hustle and bustle of crowds. Because there is so much to offer at the Chaz, and little information readily available about it, the absolute best way to explore it is by taking a clear kayaking tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking The Chaz.
What Is The Chaz and Where Is It?
The Chaz, known officially as the Chassahowitzka River, is a spring-fed river in Homosassa, Florida that leads out to the Gulf. There are multiple tributaries that branch from the main river, allowing for ample exploration of natural Florida ecosystems. The Chasshowitzka got its name from the Seminole Native American tribe on whose ancestral land it is found, its name meaning “a place for the hanging pumpkin.” Seven Sisters Springs is a collection of springs feeding into the Chaz, creating stunning clear water and giving a home to manatees in the winter!
Breathtakingly Clear Water
Because of the collection of springs interwoven in the limestone rock beneath the river, there are multiple breathtakingly clear areas of spring water. The largest being Seven Sisters Springs! In this area, there is a large open portion where you can see straight to the bottom of the headspring. However, there is also an area that has small cave openings that connect to each other where the springs have tunneled throughout hundreds of years. Here, you’ll see many locals testing their bravery and diving through them!
Further down the river, there are other spring openings–including an area known as The Crack. A popular hang-out place because of its remote location, it is only accessible by kayak and is a stop on our tour! With being off the beaten path, it truly feels like you’re paddling right in the jungle!
Unique Wildlife Encounters
Not only does the Chaz offer incredible sights of Florida’s natural beauty, but it is also a great place to spot native wildlife!
- Manatees love to hang out in Seven Sister Springs during the winter months! ● Dolphins often chase fish from the Gulf into the river, giving you a chance to see them hunting!
- Alligators love to laze and warm up in the sun along the banks of the river! ● Otters can sometimes be found playing and swimming along the shore!
- Bobcats have had only a few sightings along the banks, but have been a very special treat!
- Unique birds of all kinds have been spotted including wood storks, bald eagles, belted kingfishers, pelicans, cormorants, and more!
- All varieties of fish can be seen swimming underneath your clear kayak, and the river is a great place for sport fishing!
Experience Blissful Peace Amongst Nature
Because of the Chaz being an almost locals-only area, it is one of the least crowded and most peaceful places to enjoy your kayak tour! On the tour, you can feel truly immersed in nature listening to the birds singing, seeing fish splash in the water, and enjoying the sunshine through the trees. You may even find yourself being the only kayak out on the water, having the entire river to yourself!
This gives you a great opportunity to relax and reconnect with nature, taking away the stresses of traveling and everyday life!
Tips for Having the Best Time on the Chaz
- Make a reservation in advance: Let us know you want to see this underrated treasure! ● Wear something comfortable: There are opportunities to swim and step out of your kayak, so make sure you wear something comfortable and able to get wet! ● Bring a snorkel mask: You may find you want to see the caves and other sites underwater for yourself!
- Remember a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen: Always make sure you keep yourself protected from the sun while enjoying your tour!
- Be ready to unwind: Let yourself relax and enjoy the laid-back nature of the Chaz!
Ready to Explore the Chaz?
Want to see this underrated treasure for yourself and have a unique adventure? Book your guided tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking The Chaz to get insider knowledge of the area and experience Florida like a local!