Marion County, FL
Home Parks MenuVisit KP Hole Park
For a leisurely adventure, tube the Rainbow River Classic – the tuber ride of generations. Rentals are available & include return shuttle service from Blue Run of Dunnellon Park. Average float: approx. 4 hours
History
KP Hole® was established in the early 1920s as a boys retreat. In the late 1930s, women were granted access to the facility. Purchased by Marion County in 1953 from a private developer, the park was designated as a public recreation area & formally dedicated to Knights of Pythias member Andrew L. Neville, the original chair of the boys' outings. Access was free until the mid 1970s, when Marion County added a caretaker’s residence & boat ramp.
Until 1993, the facility was operated by a contractor who offered tubing, canoeing, & up-river boat tours. Marion County assumed operation in 1993. From 1994-1996 the park underwent a face lift to protect the waterway. The boat ramp was again replaced in 1998.
Resources
- The Rainbow River is considered one of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Special Waters on their list of Outstanding Florida Waters.
- The FDEP has also named the Rainbow River one of the state's Aquatic Preserves.
- The National Parks Service characterizes the Rainbow River as one of their National Natural Landmarks.