Florida’s oldest professional paddlesport outfitter, Canoe Outpost-Peace River was founded in 1969 by the Stout family from Sarasota. In 1978, Charlotte Bragg, also of Sarasota, took over from the Stouts who were family friends of the Braggs’. In the summer of 2001, Charlotte retired and sold the business to her daughter, Becky Bragg, who continues the Outpost tradition with Jon, her brother and s
on, Trent. The Outpost is family owned and run by native Floridians who share a love of the outdoors, paddling, and the Peace River. There are four other Canoe Outposts in the state, all individually owned, with Peace River being the mother company. The Canoe Outpost is located right on the banks of the Peace River just two miles west of Arcadia off State Road 70, right behind the Arcadia Peace River Campground. Located one hour from Sarasota, less than two hours from Tampa/St. Pete, 2 hours from Orlando, and about 3 hours from Miami/ Ft. Wilderness canoe and kayak trips by the hour, half day, full day, and overnight canoe camping are offered. The Outpost in Arcadia is open seven days a week every day of the year except Christmas Day. An additional office in Gardner is open on weekends during busy seasons in Spring and Fall to handle the popular overnight trips that check-in and end there. The Gardner Outpost facilities include ample parking, restrooms, shady picnic areas, hosing off station, trash disposal, and most important, end of trip parking, no pick ups required. All other trips, reservations, and information are handled through the main office in Arcadia. Facilities at the Arcadia Outpost include ample parking, restrooms, dressing rooms, shady picnic areas, volleyball net, grills at covered picnic area, and outdoor showers. Along the way on the river, paddlers can enjoy the Canoe Outpost exclusive Oak Hill area. Oak Hill is the Outpost’s private picnic/camping area with tables, portable toilets, and hiking trails. Oak Hill is renown for camping gear delivery and reserved campsites. The Peace River paddle trips offer something for everyone. Some of the more popular activities include fossil hunting, wildlife observation, hiking, fishing, swimming, picnicking, and, of course, canoeing and kayaking in a backdrop of peace and quiet along Florida’s most popular State Paddle Trail. Many church, scout, service club, and youth groups paddle the Peace, as well as families, groups of friends, and area businesses. The Outpost has witnessed weddings, divorces, Bar Mitzvahs, birthdays, church retreats, family reunions, and corporate gatherings. You can also bring your dog, we’re pet friendly. Paddling gives people a chance to enjoy the Florida outdoors and enjoy the sun and water, but doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. Come see the true Florida, the last of wilderness Florida. Call Canoe Outpost for reservations and information. Hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm for paddling. There are set departure times. Office hours are 8:00 am to 4:00 pm daily. Group discounts are available. Kids, 12 and under, are free as a third or fourth person. Call us for help in setting up your Peace Paddle. Become a Peace Paddler!
