Camping around Chiefland, Florida offers opportunities to explore the region's unique freshwater springs and river systems. Located in Florida's Big Bend region at an elevation of just 36 feet above sea level, Chiefland's flat terrain creates ideal conditions for tent and RV camping year-round. The area receives approximately 53 inches of rainfall annually, concentrated mainly in summer months when temperatures average 90°F.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Explore the Suwannee River from Shell Mound Campground where "there is a ramp for the boats (lots of noise throughout the day and night, so bring earplugs to sleep)." The landing provides "a sink with fresh water that everyone can use. And on the left side of the sink, there is a small path that leads to a good fishing spot (2 minutes walk)."
Wildlife viewing: Spot local fauna at Manatee Springs State Park Campground throughout the year. "You will be able to see a lot of manatees if you are lucky. The showers are large. The campsites are good and shaded. It is slightly tight in some spots if you have a large camper or RV," notes one visitor. Night walks offer special experiences: "Night walks down to the pier are a must."
Historic exploration: Discover indigenous history at the Shell Mound archaeological site, "a large prehistoric shell midden rising 28 feet above sea level. It is believed to be the location of special gatherings for Native" peoples. The site features "amazing archaeological mounds and history in walking distance."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Enjoy room to spread out at Ichetucknee Springs Campground where "we had no issue setting up our 12 man and 4 man tents with plenty of space to spare. When we woke up in the morning, we realized that we could have easily slept 50 people or more at our site."
Heated indoor pool: Swim year-round at Otter Springs Park & Campground. "There are two springs here that one flows into the other so that distance between them may be 50 yards creates a shallow stream area that parents and there toddlers can sit down in the water which by the way is a cool 72 degrees year-round."
Yurt camping: Experience comfortable structures near Chiefland, Florida at O'Leno State Park. "There are several trails available for hiking and biking and a primitive campsite on Sweetwater Trail. Santa Fe River goes underground in this area and you can check it out along the trails, going in and coming out again."
What you should know
Bug preparation: Pack serious repellent for camping near Chiefland, especially at Shell Mound Campground. "BUGS! The place is full of bugs and mosquitoes especially in the afternoon, night and dawn, so don't forget to bring your repellent, make a fire to scare away insects, bring firewood, citronella candles or mosquitos coil, fan etc..."
Limited facilities: Plan accordingly at certain campgrounds. At Shell Mound, "there are about 28 or so sites, with varying degrees of amenities (three sites are tent only with no hook ups, some sites have electric only, and some both electric and water)." Check bathhouse conditions: "The bathrooms were another story... not clean at all!"
Seasonal flooding: Check conditions before arrival as water levels affect activities. "Due to rain & flooding of the Suwannee River over the ten weeks we were there, we were unable to access the spring or experience kayaking or the few amenities of the park. Very disappointing."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation hall activities: Find indoor entertainment at Ichetucknee Springs Campground where "the rec hall with OLD arcade games (this is a good thing), pool, foosball and air hockey" provides fun for all ages. "They have a jukebox with some country and rock choices to get your bones moving."
Farm animal interactions: Let kids meet animals at several campgrounds in the area. One visitor to Travelers Campground noted "The animal rescue is woven between the park and around the outside in such a thoughtful and beautiful way." At Ichetucknee Springs, "there are so many adorable animals roaming around, my favorite was Daisy the pig (who acts more like a dog)."
Year-round swimming: Enjoy water activities regardless of season at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground. "From the grasslands to the marshes, Paynes is truly one of a kind. It's challenging to get a reservation for the campgrounds but worth it if you can. Go hiking, biking, kayaking, or fly a kite."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully at certain campgrounds to accommodate larger rigs. "Most sites hard packed sand. We wound up on ADA site and it was the only paved one. It's a nice pull through. Sites have fire ring and table."
Hookup placement: Check utility locations before setting up at Otter Springs. "The electric box and water is in the very front of the site" and "there are trees in the middle of the site and makes it difficult to park an RV to get the slide out and awning out."
Cell service considerations: Prepare for connectivity issues at more remote locations. "The TMobile signal is zero. Verizon is good. Sprint is ok, but not good enough for a personal hotspot. The camp WiFi is erratic," notes one camper. At Manatee Springs, "Poor/spotty cell service in park, but there's free wifi at the concession stand."
