Newport Park Campground provides waterfront camping along the St. Marks River with direct access to boat ramps. The campground features tent sites, cabins, and RV hookups with nightly fees around $17. Located across from St. Marks State Park, campers can enjoy wildlife viewing and fishing. The campground maintains clean restroom facilities but has limited privacy between campsites. Traffic noise from Highway 98 can be noticeable during daytime hours.
What to do
Visit St. Marks Wildlife Refuge: Located directly across from Newport Park Campground, the refuge offers extensive hiking trails and wildlife photography opportunities. "The St. Marks lighthouse is so close and a must see during all times of the day. We visited at least twice, once to walk along the beach and the second time to see the sunset," notes Della S. at Newport Park Campground.
Explore underwater caves: Lafayette Blue Springs features limestone formations and cave systems for experienced divers. "If you're into diving they also have an underwater cave, just make sure to check in with the ranger station 2 miles north before diving," advises Aubrey O. from Lafayette Blue Springs State Park.
Paddle the Suwannee River: Multiple river camps along the Suwannee provide convenient stopping points for multi-day paddling trips. "Suwannee River camps are spaced a days paddle apart and are wonderfully convenient (especially in summer when afternoon rains come daily and bugs are everywhere)," explains Jeanene A.
What campers like
Natural springs for swimming: Clear, 72-degree spring water provides relief during hot Florida days. "Beautiful spring for swimming featuring a limestone bridge way you can snorkel under," shares Aubrey O. about Lafayette Blue Springs State Park.
Equestrian access: Several properties near Monticello accommodate horse camping with varying amenities. Fort Braden Tract offers trail riding options through diverse terrain. "Nice elevation changes (refreshing for Florida hiking)," notes Jeanene A. about Fort Braden Tract.
Affordable camping options: Most campgrounds maintain reasonable nightly fees. "This is the area where Tarzan was filmed and located across the street from St Marks State Park and on the St Marks River. Sites run around $17 and there is centrally located bathroom and shower facilities," reports Juke W.
What you should know
Water level variations: Spring clarity can change with river conditions. "If your main purpose for visiting is to swim in the spring make sure to call ahead or go online and check water conditions as this spring is attached to the Suwanee river and can sometimes be 'browned out' due to river levels," advises Aubrey O.
Wildlife awareness: Alligators and snakes are common throughout the region. "Even got a visit from your friendly neighborhood alligator in the middle of the night, which when I realized after the fact what the sound was was terrifying," shares Edward W. from Fort Braden Tract Primitive Campsites.
Access challenges: Many horse campgrounds near Monticello, Florida require navigation through rough roads or terrain. "The road into her ranch is pretty rough and beat up, so use caution and go slowly," warns Catherine A. about Crazy 8 Ranch.
Tips for camping with families
Pack swimming gear year-round: Spring-fed pools maintain consistent temperatures. "Spring fed pools around take out area are a refreshing 72 degrees year round!" explains Jeanene A. about Lafayette Blue Springs.
Consider walk-in tent sites: Some campgrounds feature convenient equipment transport systems. "Walk-in with onsite large wheelbarrow no problem," notes Earl B. about his stay at Lafayette Blue Springs.
Bring animal treats for rescue ranches: Several properties operate as animal rescues that welcome visitors. "Make sure you bring plenty of carrots and apples for the animals! Feeding them was a big highlight of our stay!" recommends Catherine A. about her visit to Crazy 8 Ranch.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary by location. "They do have FHU, W/E and primitive," confirms James M. about Newport Park Campground.
Verify dump station locations: Not all campgrounds with hookups have dump stations. "There's power and water hookups, but no dumping stations yet," notes Catherine A. about Crazy 8 Ranch.
Prepare for mixed terrain: Access roads to horse campgrounds near Monticello may require careful navigation. "Nothing fancy, but a nice spot to stay," observes James M., highlighting the straightforward nature of many local camping options.
