Boating on the Forgotten Coast
Franklin County is a boater’s heaven with hundreds of miles of freshwater creeks, sloughs and rivers that empty into nutrient-rich bays and out to the Gulf of Mexico.
Getting out on the water is the easy part here – Franklin County, Florida features more than 40 boat ramps and primitive paddling launches stretching from Alligator Point to Apalachicola. Bring your boat and tie up at one of the area’s 10 commercial marinas. Some can even accommodate you and your boat.
No boat? No problem! You can rent a boat from boat rental operations or charter a trip from one of the many experienced guides in the area.
Boat Rental Companies
Forgotten Coast Paddlesports
Carrabelle
Forgotten Coast Paddlesports offers stand up paddle board (SUPs), kayak, jet ski and pontoon boat rentals. Guided fishing charters and scallop tours.
Gunner Pontoon Rentals
Carrabelle
Boat, stand up paddleboards (SUPs), kayak and pontoon boat rentals. Bicycle rentals.
Boat Ramps
Seafood Landing Park
Apalachicola
Franklin County Seafood Landing Park and public boat ramp is located near the westerly entrance into Apalachicola on US Highway 98. This park features covered platforms with picnic tables and grills and a nature observation dock.
Indian Creek Park
Eastpoint
Located on a five-acre park on Indian Creek that leads to Apalachicola Bay East. There is ample parking space available at the old “ferry dock landing” site.
St. George Island Boat Ramp
St. George Island
The St. George Island boat ramp is located on the northeast side of the St. George Island fishing bridge. This newly constructed concrete ramp has become very popular and can accommodate various size boats. It offers parking for 13 cars and 14 boat/trailer combos.
Timber Island Boat Ramp
Carrabelle
Highway 98 at Timber Island Road, drive to end of Timber Island Road, Carrabelle
Scipio Creek Boat Basin
Apalachicola
Located at the north end of Market Street in downtown Apalachicola. Locally known as the Mill Pond, it is the site of a former saw mill where lumber was floated from upriver and milled. It is currently a commercial fishing marina and park.
Battery Park
Apalachicola
Located beneath the John Gorrie Bridge at the entrance to Apalachicola, is the site of the annual Florida Seafood Festival. Funds raised by the Festival has paid for the extensive boat docks in the adjoining City Marina area. This park features a community center, boat launch ramps, fishing piers and children's play equipment.