Robinson Preserve Recreational Paddle
Trip Leader: Robby Bieber - (941) 744-6620, robinson_june_21@bieber.dev
Description: We'll meet at the South entrance (not the main entrance!) to Robinson preserve and depart from the kayak launch. Plan A will be a loop out through the mangrove tunnel to Perico Bayou then North and East around the outside of the park, coming back in under the boardwalk and passing the observation tower on the way back to the launch. Total distance about four and a quarter miles at an easy pace. Expect an outgoing tide for most of the trip, but at a level that should still make Perico Bayou passable. If conditions are rough the day of, we can do a back-and-forth paddle within the protected waters of the preserve instead.
This isn't an official picnic paddle, but feel free to bring a lunch. I'll plan on eating at one of the South entrance pavilions after the paddle with anyone who cares to join me.
Robinson Preserve is a nature preserve in Northwest Bradenton covering more than 600 acres with its latest expansion (which isn't really new at this point, but I will continue to think of it as such for at least another decade or two). The park includes walking and paddling trails throughout where you may see osprey, spoonbills, white pelicans (seasonally), and all manner of shorebird along with the occasional manatee. The walking trails connect to Perico Preserve to the West, and the waterways in the park connect to Tampa Bay to the North, Perico Bayou to the West, and Palma Sola Bay to the South. You can also catch spectacular views of Tampa Bay and the Skyway bridge from both the North shore of the park and the observation tower.
Location: Robinson Preserve South Entrance at 10299 9th Ave NW, Bradenton, FL 34209
Please note that this is not the main entrance off of 17th Ave that most TBSK paddles have launched from. This is the newer entrance to the park expansion on 9th Ave about half a mile to the South. If you see the big blue Valentine house you're at the wrong entrance, look for the sign pictured here:
Take the road into the park and turn right where you'll find a large parking lot with pavilions and a kayak launch by the water.
Schedule: Sunday June 21st. Meet at 9:30am for a 10:00am launch. Expect to be back around noon to 1pm depending on group pace.
Difficulty: This will be a recreation level paddle targeting a comfortable pace for the entire group. All TBSKers and guests of all skill levels are welcome. This is a smooth flat water paddle with minimal current.
Requirements: All types of kayaks are OK and should have a closed hull, closed hatches, or bow and stern flotation. SUPs are welcome on this paddle and should have a leg leash attached.
All participants must wear a PFD and carry a whistle or other sound-producing device. Also make sure you bring sunscreen, sun hat, other sun protection, bug repellent and plenty of water and some snacks and/or lunch if you like.
If you have any medical issues that might impact your paddling, please notify the leader before the trip so that they can be best equipped to assist you as needed.
Currently the registration is limited to 6 participants. If another trip leader is available to assist, we will increase the participation limit. Contact Robby to volunteer to co-lead or assist.