Kayaking Together on Our Anniversary:
My boyfriend and I went kayaking on Memorial Day to celebrate our one-year anniversary. I've always wanted to learn how to kayak, so we chose the Paddle & Kayak Lesson to start. We decided on a 9:00 - 9:30 AM slot, to do our best to beat the heat and avoid the Memorial Day weekend crowds. We were surprised to find out the park entrance fee of $5 was waived due to it being Memorial Day, which was nice.
When we got there, we met our guide and instructor, Michelle. She brought us to the Camper Canteen to try on our lifejackets and we went to the restroom before beginning. When we returned, Michelle already had the kayaks ready to go in the water.
She was fantastic! Kind, helpful, patient, and very laid-back. We enjoyed our time with her. I highly recommend her, and I would book her again. She even knows how to paddle-board! I believe she teaches that too! She told us all about the Night Kayak: Full Moon Paddle, and we're looking forward to possibly doing that too. She even offered to take some pictures of us - very kind of her! Also, incredibly brave for both Michelle and my boyfriend to have their phones on them.
She helped us in our kayaks and gave us a push. She went over paddling, and I gotta say... we did well! We had so much fun out on the water. When the breeze came in, I took advantage and I rode the flow! Made my kayak go so fast.
We were able to learn some cool things. I learned about alligators and their mating season. Did you know that alligators will court in April, mate in May, and then lay their eggs in June? Thanks, Michelle!
Once you practice the paddling enough, it becomes natural and automatic.
I'd say the most challenging parts were getting in the kayak and then getting out. Be mindful of keeping balance and making slow and steady moves.
We did not see any animals out in the water, but we loved the endless lily pads and water lilies. When you paddle over and through the lily pads, you will find it is a little tough because your paddle is meeting with some resistance. Just be patient with yourself.
FYI #1: Wear clothes and sandals that you are okay with getting wet. You will get wet!
FYI #2: Keep your electronics away and in a closed Ziplock bag. Drink plenty of water before and put on lots of sunscreen and bug spray before you get in your kayak boat. This will be a lot easier to do and deal with before you're kayaking and on the water.
FYI #3: Sunglasses and hats are your best friends. Honestly, just pack some frozen water, bug spray, and...
Read moreI hope everyone who sees this reading the reviews takes the time to read this one because I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the extraordinary experience the woman at this ranch helped create during my recent visit yesterday evening.
Your assistance in orchestrating the most romantic proposal with my fiancée for me was truly unforgettable and will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
From the moment we arrived, it was evident that your ranch is not only a stunning piece of land but also a place where care and attention to detail are paramount. The serene beauty of the surroundings, coupled with the well-being of the horses, showcased your commitment to creating a harmonious environment. The horseback riding experience was truly enhanced by the expertise of your wranglers, whose knowledge and passion for their craft shone through with every step of the journey.
Moreover, the warmth and hospitality extended by you and your team made us feel like part of your family from the very beginning. Your support and guidance throughout the proposal process were invaluable, and having such wonderful witnesses present added an extra layer of joy and meaning to the occasion.
Words cannot adequately express how grateful we are for the role you played in making this momentous occasion so magical. The memories we made at your ranch will be cherished for a lifetime, and we look forward to returning to relive those special moments in the future.
Once again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your exceptional hospitality and for helping to make our engagement truly unforgettable.
Please everyone, come visit for an amazing experience. Friendly...
Read moreDriving in to Lake Louisa State Park you can already tell it will be a beautiful experience. We camped for 3 nights and went for the Segway tour through the nature trails, (so fun) a slow horseback ride through the woods, and I would also rent a kayak if the weather was warmer. They say the alligators there have a healthy fear of people so they shy away from humans, staff was very nice. There is a maze of trails, several miles and a number system to follow. Some trails are in the sun, and at least a beautiful nature trail by Lake Louisa had all shade. There is a beach area and playground by Lake Louisa as well. Also there are several other lakes, and a dock/ pier at the ones by the campground. I took some beautiful sunset pics by Dixie Lake. Overall the park is very well taken care of. Some of the campsites have quite a bit of sun and a few shady, most have decent privacy. Some traffic noise. We were not allowed to use our phones for pictures while riding the horses so the guide took some pics that I am still waiting for. I may have to remind them of that. If you go I would suggest to give them your own phone to take a pic of you on the horse as they stopped for pictures at the end. It will definitely not be the last time we visit this amazing park, it’s one of our...
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