The Chipola River flows north to south through Jackson County, passing through Florida Caverns State Park before eventually joining the Apalachicola River. It is a classic Florida spring-run river — remarkably clear water fed by underground springs, a constant cool temperature, and banks lined with limestone bluffs, cypress trees, and bottomland hardwoods.
Canoeing and kayaking on the Chipola is one of the best outdoor activities in the Marianna area. Several outfitters offer canoe rentals, and the section through the state park is the most scenic. The river is also good for freshwater fishing — largemouth bass, bream, and catfish are common catches. Bring insect repellent for the riverbanks, particularly in summer.
The Chipola is less visited than the famous spring rivers of central Florida (the Ichetucknee, the Rainbow River) but is comparable in water quality and considerably less crowded.