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Best Tent Camping near Branford, FL

696 Reviews

Tent campsites along the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail provide primitive camping experiences near Branford, Florida. Several river camps including Adams Tract, Peacock Slough, and Woods Ferry offer designated tent camping areas accessible primarily by boat. Lafayette Blue Springs State Park Campground provides walk-in tent sites under live oak canopies with the benefit of spring swimming nearby. These locations are strategically positioned approximately a day's paddle apart, creating a connected network for multi-day paddling trips.

Most tent camping areas feature screened sleeping pavilions with electricity, ceiling fans, and hammock hooks alongside traditional tent sites. According to one visitor, "Screened in pavilions with light/fan and outlets. Each one has a fire pit, grill and water spigot!" Many locations provide bathhouses with hot showers, drinking water, and toilet facilities. Picnic tables and fire rings are standard at most sites. Campers should note that river camps like Woods Ferry, Holton Creek, and Peacock Slough are accessible only by water, with no public road access. Wheelbarrows are typically available to transport gear from the river landing to the campsite. During high water periods, access to some landings can become difficult.

The Suwannee River tent camping experience offers unique advantages for paddlers seeking wilderness immersion. Sites feature varying amounts of privacy, with natural spacing between camping areas. A review mentioned that "Chuck-will's-widow, owls and frogs will serenade you at night." Swimming opportunities exist at several locations, with spring-fed pools maintaining 72-degree temperatures year-round. Tent campers should be aware of wildlife including raccoons and occasional bears, making proper food storage essential. Most river camps have camp hosts who may sell firewood and ice. While many sites are currently free, reservations are recommended for the screened pavilions, especially during busy seasons. Primitive tent areas typically have shared fire pits and picnic tables.

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Best Tent Sites Near Branford, Florida (17)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Branford, FL

5 Photos of 17 Branford Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Branford, FL

696 Reviews of 17 Branford Campgrounds

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 26, 2017

    Lafayette Blue Springs State Park Campground

    Another fun stop along the Suwannee River

    One of 5 river camps along the Suwanee River and one of the nicest. This system of river camps currently is first come first served with no fee - but that could change soon and screened sleeping platforms may require reservations. Reservations can be made for groups and are suggested. 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).

    Most of the time you will have a camp host on the property.

    River camp has bath house with water and electric, grills, fire pits, tent camping area and screened sleeping platforms with electric, lighting and ceiling fans. Many units also have hooks to hang you hammocks. There are 5 sleeping pavilions typically will hold 6-8 persons and have small corner tables with small bench. Each has picnic table and fire ring. You will find a broom in each shelter - please sweep out and leave clean for next group. Camp host oftentimes has firewood available for sale.

    There are trails to explore around springs and sinks. You can learn a lot about Florida's Aquifer and more staying at this and other camps. Spring fed pools around take out area are a refreshing 72 degrees year round!

    Tent camping area has fire pit and picnic table to share with others

    At high water access to stairs to take out and to camp can be difficult.

    Note: Always take paddles, PFD's, fishing equipment, food items and valuables to your camping area - do not leave in boats. There are raccoons and other nocturnal creatures and an occasional bear passing through.

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 13, 2017

    Woods Ferry River Camp — Suwannee River Wilderness Trail

    Fantastic River Camp - River Access Only

    One of 5 river camps along the Suwanee River and one of the nicest. This system of river camps currently is first come first served with no fee - but that could change soon and screened sleeping platforms may require reservations. Reservations can be made for groups and are suggested. Our outfitter American Canoe Adventures makes our reservations for us. We stay here at least 2 times a year as the Suwannee River river camps are spaced a days paddle apart and are wonderfully convenient (especially in summer when afternoon rains come daily and bugs are everywhere).

    Outfitters have road access to help with deliveries of gear and supplies - Road access not open to the public. Most of the time you will have a camp host on the property.

    River camp has bath house with water and electric, grills, fire pits, tent camping area and screened sleeping platforms with electric, lighting and ceiling fans. Many units also have hooks to hang you hammocks. Sleeping pavilions typically will hold 6-8 persons and have small corner tables with small bench. Each has picnic table and fire ring. You will find a broom in each shelter - please sweep out and leave clean for next group. Camp host oftentimes has firewood available for sale. There are trails to explore and if you look closely you will find remains and signs of old turpentine harvesting in the area close to the camp in the forest. Chuck-will's-widow, owls and frogs will serenade you at night.

    Tent camping area has fire pit and picnic table to share with others

    There are canoe racks off platform visible at lower water levels or you can tie boat up under ramp. At high water you will be able to paddle up walkway to get out. - please turn boat to side of railing and secure as far up ramp as possible to leave room for others coming in to get their vessels up. There are also canoe racks at top of walkway. Always take paddles, PFD's, fishing equipment, food items and valuables to your camping area - do not leave in boats. There are raccoons and other nocturnal creatures and an occasional bear passing through.

  • Brenda S.
    Jun. 18, 2018

    Hart Springs Park

    Perfect "Spring" Weather

    Ranger Review: Wild Zora Bars and Paleo Meals to Go at Hart Springs, Fl

    Not far from the city of Gainesville sits the town of Bell, Fl home of many small springs. The spring we visited was Hart Springs. Hart Springs was just the right temperature on a hot summer day and a perfect location to enjoy Wild Zora Bars.

    Camp Ground Review:

    The Hart Spring has one of the largest swimming area with year-round 72-degree Fahrenheit water temperatures. The spring has an over bridge and concrete steps that lead down into the springs. Plenty of shade and Pavilions with grills close to the springs, playground, bathrooms and camp store. This park also has a splash pad, volleyball and basketball court. Beautiful ½ a mile-long boardwalk along the springs and the Suwannee River. Rentals of canoes and Kayaks available and cave diving is allowed for certified cave divers. The campground is located about 1 mile away from the spring accessible by a paved walking, bicycle or golf cart trail which is shaded by cypress, oak and pine trees. Campground has 71 sites (one loop), full hookups, and bathhouse with hot shower, washer and dryer. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring (no grill). Our site was #8 this site was deep, shaded and close to the bathrooms. Nice pool with bathrooms and a big pavilion with picnic tables and two grills for cooking at the pool. No alcohol. No pets (except at the RV campground) Reservations thru Reserve America website.

    Product Review:

    As a ranger for The Dyrt, I get to test various products. At Hart Springs I tested two products from Wild Zora: Wild Zora Bars and Wild Zora Paleo Meals to Go.

    What I thought about Wild Zora Bars and Paleo Meals to Go:

    1. Convenience- when spending the day at the springs, pool or on a hike it is nice to have a healthy snack with balanced nutrition without having to compromise on flavor.
    2. Very tender and easy to eat- Having children it is often difficult to find jerky or nutrition bars that are soft enough to chew, these bars are tender and eaten without difficulty. This is also beneficial for my older father who finds it difficult to chew most Jerky.
    3. Good balance of nutrition- it is nice to have a snack for both myself and my children that contains some vegetables. Unfortunately, we do not always get enough.
    4. The Paleo meals are easy to transport, requiring no refrigeration and very simple preparation. When you are ready to eat you simply add water, stir and allow the food to cook. Prep for camping and hiking can be very time consuming. Having meals that are ready to go when you are is not only a time saver but, in some cases, can make the difference between a hot meal and a cold sandwich.
    5. The texture of the Paleo Meals to Go was a bit softer than I would have anticipated, possibly I let it sit to long when preparing, but the flavor was very good, and the meal was filling.

    I would recommend Wild Zora bars to anyone that is looking for a snack for camping, hiking, or just an all-around healthy snack. I would recommend to anyone who likes camping, especially where space is limited, to try the Paleo Meals to go.

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 26, 2017

    Peacock Slough River Camp — Suwannee River Wilderness Trail

    Loved by cave divers and river travelers

    One of 5 river camps along the Suwanee River and one of the nicest. This system of river camps currently is first come first served with no fee - but that could change soon and screened sleeping platforms may require reservations. Reservations can be made for groups and are highly suggested.

    Wintertime is fantastic here as the bugs are at bay. Springs are 72 degrees year round and are not open to swimming and you will often find large groups of divers at the various holes. The extensive submerged cave system is on eof the most beautiful attracting divers from around the world.

    River camp has bath house with water and electric, grills, fire pits, tent camping area and screened sleeping platforms with electric, lighting and ceiling fans. Many units also have hooks to hang you hammocks. Sleeping pavilions typically will hold 6-8 persons and have small corner tables with small bench. Each has picnic table and fire ring. You will find a broom in each shelter - please sweep out and leave clean for next group. Tent camping area has fire pit and picnic table to share with others. As with all river camps there are stairs up to the camps and trees and racks to tie up your vessels. Nice large picnic pavilion with grills.

    There is a lot of space to explore here and at the adjoining Peacock Springs State Park.There are foot and equestrian trails to explore and lots of activities for EXPERIENCED cave divers.

    NOTE: Always take paddles, PFD's, fishing equipment, food items and valuables to your camping area - do not leave in boats. There are raccoons and other nocturnal creatures and an occasional bear passing through.

  • Napunani
    Jun. 25, 2023

    Suwannee River State Park Campground

    Nice Small Campground

    PROS 

    Site 14- shady; 100% sand; moveable small wooden picnic table and metal fire ring with cooking grate; small clothes line permanently erected 

    Fairly new bathhouse which was very clean 

    Quiet except for Interstate 10, US90 and occasional train 

    Park security gate closes at sunset and requires code to enter 

    Campground Drive thrus by sheriff and park personnel 

    Very friendly and helpful volunteers 

    Lots and lots of squirrels. 

    Didn’t see any other wild life. 

    CONS 

    Paid transaction fee for making my own online reservation 

    Camping in cars permitted in FHU campsites 

    No privacy from other sites or campground roadway 

    No Park WIFI 

    1 bar TMOBILE

    Don’t Miss 

    Live Oak is the next eastbound Interstate 10 exit, so 7 miles, which has Walmart with Murphy fuel, Lowe’s, Winn-Dixie and Publix 

    Watch local law enforcement speed surveillance on US90. Goes from 60 mph to 45 mph at the Interstate junction! 

    Robbie’s Cafe for some reasonably priced home cooking 

    O’Neal County Buffet in Madison for bodacious fried chicken

  • Jeff E.
    Jun. 26, 2024

    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    Immersed in Nature.

    Quiet, lots of wildlife (wild horses, bison, alligators, deer, birds, turtles); plenty of hiking and biking trails with beautiful sunsets on the lake. Restroom facilities are showing some age but clean.  Walk-in tent sites are pretty close to the Restrooms.

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 23, 2020

    Otter Springs Park & Campground

    Nice family Friendly Park

    Located in the town of Trenton, Florida is this gem of a spot loved by the locals and tourists alike. They offer Lodge Rentals, RV Sites, Tent Camping & Cabins, Heated Pool & Great access to Otter Springs and the Suwannee River. There is a day use area, canoe & kayak rentals, basketball and volleyball court, and canoe rentals available. You can fish in the spring run or on the Suwannee River. We chose to camp in site with water and electric so we were in an RV spot but they have a designated tent camping area with water access and no electric.

    We enjoyed exploring the over 600 acres, river, springs, nature trails and loved getting ice cream in the store after! The camp store has just about all you might run out of. Be prepared with insect repellent at dawn and dusk. Sites are spacious enough - not too close together but not much privacy either. If you do not like noise choose a sight away from the pool! RV sites have Full hookup: Electric (30& 50 amp.), water, and sewer. Good Sams memberships are accepted.

    This is a great place to host a local event and they are VERY Veteran Friendly offering 15% off on daily and weekly camping. There is Wifi is available in the Pool Pavilion. 

    Though this place is not brand new and shows some age, it has a wonderful, welcoming feeling. We really enjoyed our stay!

  • Jon D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 26, 2022

    Rocky's Convenience Store and Campground

    Great spot!

    I stopped here for a quick overnight to tent camp off my motorcycle. Very easy to get in and out. It is nice having the convenience store right there. There are no designated tent sites, just an area to set up in. Mostly RV’s. There was only one other tent set up. Super quiet campground. Clean facilities. Will definitely stay again if I am in the area.

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 14, 2019

    Woods Ferry River Camp — Suwannee River Wilderness Trail

    Ranger Review Primus Lite XL Stove at Woods Ferry River Camp

    Campground Review

    Woods Ferry River Camp is the first in a series of river camps available about a day’s paddle apart on the Suwannee River From White Springs (River mile 159.3 GPS Location: N 30 21.22, W 82 51.37 ) to Adams Track (River mile 85.5 GPS Location: N 30 2.10, W 83 1.14). On our recent visit River Level was at 52 making it easy to get out of kayak on a small sandy area under ramp. One of the storage racks had been damaged in recent storm/flooding but one still remained and held our 6 boats easily. There are carts to help you get your gear up the high 200 yard, winding ramp to get to the camp. Recent weather has taken a toll on this favorite camp of ours. We stayed in screened pavilion # 3 and found the railing to be loose and many of the installed hammock hooks bent down and unusable. Shower in the men’s room was scheduled for repair so we “stood guard” for our male camping companion to shower in ladies room. Camp hosts were wonderful and had ice as well as firewood available “for donation”. Fire pits were all clean as well as the rest of the facility! There is a large pavilion with picnic tables and electricity available for use with a large fire pit and grills. Other than routine maintenance needing done this place is holding up well. It is still free to stay at the river camps. There is a very nice tent camping area also! Screened pavilions need a reservation during busy time of year (which I would suggest always try to get). Our outfitter offers a service to shuttle gear to site for a fee. This trip there was a terrible storm front that came through and we did not get to finish our trip and outfitter was able to pick us up at this location. As we were aware of the trouble we could have with the weather we were able to get a call out luckily( limited cell service here) and arranged for our outfitter American Canoe Adventures – to pick us up. The hard part was moving all our boats from the river up to where the van could get to. Long ramp in the pouring rain – not fun. You cannot drive into Woods Ferry, this is a river access location only, except for camp hosts and permitted outfitters.

    Product Review

    On this kayak camping trip I had the opportunity to test out the Primus Lite XL . This stove comes with a 1 liter pot (good to feed 2 persons) that actually connects to the stove to prevent spills! This connection between burner and pot made for a secure unit making it much easier to stir the pot! The heat flows through the specially designed bottom of the pot which had fins built in, this heats the pot and items you are cooking very efficiently! This new feature also aids in keeping wind from carrying away your heat! Another bonus feature is the igniter button – no need to carry extra lighter for this stove. The clear lid with strainer, footrest, and folding stove handles make this a complete package. Well built, seems like with will hold up well in the back country and light/compact enough for backpacking. Primus did a great job with this set!. As a rebel I also had to test burner without the included pot and unit provided stable support and cooked evenly. Great gas saving stove! Thank you #PrimusAmerica !

    Get yours today at https://primus.us/products/lite-xl-4?variant=17262671429

Guide to Branford

Branford, Florida, offers a fantastic array of options for tent camping enthusiasts, with beautiful natural surroundings and well-maintained facilities.

Tips for Tent Camping Near Branford

Local Attractions for Tent Campers

  • Explore the stunning underwater caves at Lafayette Blue Springs State Park Campground, perfect for diving enthusiasts who want to discover Florida's unique aquatic landscapes.
  • The nearby Dowling Park River Camp offers easy access to the Suwannee River, making it an ideal starting point for paddling adventures.
  • Don't miss the chance to hike the trails around Holton Creek River Camp, where you can learn about Florida's aquifer and enjoy the serene natural beauty.

Tent Campers Should Check Out Woods Ferry River Camp

  • Woods Ferry River Camp is accessible only by water, providing a secluded experience with clean facilities and fire rings at every site.
  • This well-reviewed spot features a large pavilion with picnic tables and grills, perfect for group gatherings at Woods Ferry River Camp.
  • With its convenient amenities, including potable water and electricity, Woods Ferry River Camp is a great choice for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Branford, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Branford, FL is Adams Tract — Suwannee River Wilderness Trail with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Branford, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 17 tent camping locations near Branford, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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