Enjoy a hidden wildlife sanctuary amid towering cypress trees

There is a little known place right outside of Walton County where you may explore nature at its finest. One of the Choctawhatchee River’s tributaries, Chain of Lakes near Ebro, offers an extraordinary paddling experience whether you are in a kayak, canoe or on a stand up paddle board.

This pristine area offers a dreamy paddle experience through open and canopied waterway corridors. Sounds of pileated woodpeckers can be heard hammering on the giant cypress trees towering above. Barred owls, hawks, songbirds and wading birds forage along the waterway as you explore the connected “lakes.” You may encounter a fisherman or two in small John boats, however larger vessels cannot access the area.

Paddling Chain of Lakes takes approximately two hours, and the current is typically slow. There are no places to take out, making the this trip an out and return from the launch area. Head right (north) to explore the lakes. Parking is limited. Honor box fee: $3.00. The boat launch is located on private property and does not offer any rentals or guide services. There is a restroom located at the north end of the parking lot available for public use.

Directions: Take State Road 20 east through Walton County. After you cross the Choctawhatchee River, take a right on Strickland Road. Go about one mile, turn right on Little Acre Road which dead ends at the lakes.
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