KISSIMMEE, Fla. – Hidden away off 192 in Kissimmee is a tranquil escape, but with all kinds of action.
Wild snakes, turtles, gators—you name it. They're awaiting your arrival.
- The Paddling Center is located inside The Shingle Creek Regional Park. “So it pretty much centers around all these bald Cypress trees,” lead tour guide Alex Friederich said. “There was an old timber mill right down the street that processed these Cypress trees into roof shingling. That's where the creek gets its name, Shingle Creek.”
- Guests can paddle at their leisure or head on out on a guided tour. If they choose the latter, expert tour guides will inevitably point out wildlife (especially snakes) that would be nearly undetectable to the average Joe. (We spotted a whopping 11!)
- The Shingle Creek Regional Park is close to the attractions area on West US-192 near marker 15. You'd never know this kind of wild universe even exists is this area.
- Guests can rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard by the hour.
- The rustic-themed Paddling Center facility includes adjacent hiking and biking trails. Picnic tables are on-site as well as some historical markings and factoids.