What time is high/low tide
Are you launching at a mud flat - if so, pick as close to high tide as you can get

What way is the wind blowing?

How does that factor in with what the tide is doing?

If you will arrive at your campsite close to low tide - will you be able to land?  Some areas are only accessible at higher tides

Is it a full moon or close to it? This will make low tides lower and high tides higher

First Estero River Trip from Koreshan State Park
We met at the Koreshan Park Boat Launch.  Entering the park, you pass the Ranger station and pay a small park entrance fee.  This park sits on the Estero River, off of Corkscrew Road, east of I-75 and east of 41. 

There are options to head north or south on the Estero River - At the boat launch, if you head north (launch to the right) this river is a narrow, winding delight, flanked by live oak, fern, palm, bamboo, banana trees, and other tropical plants. Look closely, you may see a river otter pass you by.  Heading north from the boat launch, the river narrows gradually, this 3 hours round trip paddle takes you thru old time Florida. 

There are no pull outs or places to get out of your kayak, so plan on bathroom stops before you leave the launch.

As you paddle along and the river narrows, you will pass a few homes on the river, and even a homemade foot bridge with bells and adornments hanging on it.  Neighbors cross this bridge to visit each other. Wildlife abounds, so keep alert!

Paddling south (launching to the left) on the Estero River- This stretch of the river opens up eventually to Estero Bay, Mound Key, and the Gulf of Mexico.  This route you will pass more homes and encounter more boat traffic (more so on weekends) It is pretty, nonetheless and we usually have the river to ourselves.   The picture to the right is at a take out, not too far from the park launch.  There are a few sandy areas to pull out, eat your lunch, or take quick hike in the park.  Remember this is a tidal river, and you should always tie up your kayaks or move them to the highest ground possible before leaving them, even for just a few minutes!

When you come back to the boat launch, there is a nice nature trail that will take you along the river bank, thru incredible strands of bamboo, and to some of the old homesteading buildings from the original settlement along with at least one home of a large gopher tortoise who is now a permanent resident.

This river is a gem, and a kayaking opportunity that you shouldn't miss!