The Fanning Springs area of Florida sits at the convergence of the Suwannee River and several natural springs, creating a unique freshwater ecosystem with year-round 72-degree spring temperatures. This region in Levy County features numerous camping options within a 30-mile radius, with most campgrounds situated close to spring systems that remain clear and swimmable even during winter months when river levels are typically lower.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Manatee Springs State Park Campground offers excellent canoe and kayak experiences on both the springs and the Suwannee River. "A great place to kayak! You will be able to see a lot of manatees if you are lucky. The showers are large. The campsites are good and shaded," notes Jordan S. Rentals are available through the park concession.
Wildlife viewing: Trails at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground provide opportunities to spot unique Florida wildlife including wild horses and bison. "Many opportunities to spot wildlife close by. Buffalo, deer, eagles, alligators, owls....Visit Sweetwater," recommends Jenn B. The park's elevated observation tower offers prairie views.
Springs swimming: Ichetucknee Springs features multiple swimming areas with crystal-clear water. "This has been one of my favorite campsites. The campground is nice: level ground, lots of trees, CLEAN bathrooms and showers, and walking distance to a great swimming area that's clean and unpolluted," shares Mica H. The main swimming hole is typically less crowded during weekday mornings.
What campers like
Natural springs access: Otter Springs Park & Campground provides direct connections to its namesake spring. "Otter Springs Campground is off the beaten path, but is a very pleasant place for relaxing and a little spring dipping. There is a pool with showers and several playgrounds near the campsites," writes Amelia W. The spring maintains a constant temperature regardless of season.
River-based recreation: Ellie Ray's RV Resort & Lounge sits directly on the Santa Fe River. "Beautiful campground right on the river with boatramp. Nice pool area and lounge. Love entertainment Friday and Saturday," explains Rusty Gate F. The resort offers pontoon boat and jet ski rentals at hourly rates.
Stargazing opportunities: Several campgrounds in the area feature minimal light pollution for night sky viewing. "Great location with plenty of dark skies. The spots are well spaced in the woods, with plenty of room," notes Joe R. about Paynes Prairie. The field behind Otter Springs is particularly good for stargazing.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: The Suwannee River system can flood during rainy seasons, affecting campground access. "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," reports Julia H. about her stay at Otter Springs.
Insect preparation: Shell Mound Campground and other riverside locations require serious bug protection. "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," advises Mayra R. Bug activity intensifies at dawn and dusk.
Water quality variations: Spring clarity can change with rainfall and river conditions. "The swamp there is absolutely beautiful with lots of large oaks and cypress. There is another spring there that's called Little Otter that's close to the river and accessible by foot," explains Thomas R. Calling ahead about water conditions is recommended.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly recreation: Ichetucknee Springs Campground offers family activities beyond water sports. "The office has pool tables and games for kids to enjoy. There's also a lot of friendly animals that live on the property, such as goats, a donkey, chickens, dogs and cats," writes Miguel. Many families bring bikes for exploring the campground roads.
Safe swimming areas: Look for designated swimming zones with lifeguards during summer months. "The site has a basketball court, a clubhouse with arcade games, pool tables and an air hockey table. If you'd rather play with animals, you can go pet their cow and they now have a donkey!" shares Chad N. about Ichetucknee Springs Campground.
Educational opportunities: Many state parks offer ranger-led programs that engage children. "We did the Ranger led hike which was really nice, my 5 year old struggled to keep up with the Ranger and there are decent elevation changes," notes Lindsey H. from her experience at Paynes Prairie. Most programs run on weekends during peak seasons.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have varying site sizes and privacy levels. "The RV sites have a terrible layout and it's hard to tell where the site begins and ends. 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," cautions Melissa A. about Ichetucknee Springs Campground.
Utility placement awareness: Check hookup locations before selecting sites. "The electric box and water is in the very front of the site," continues Melissa A. about Ichetucknee, while Julia H. notes at Otter Springs that "water and electric were in a pretty logical spot and could easily reach anywhere in the site with a long enough hose or cord."
Campground surface conditions: Sand-based sites present specific challenges. "The sites were 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," explains Jeanene A. about Otter Springs.
