The Suwannee River area near Fort White, Florida offers tent camping opportunities along interconnected waterways within the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail system. The region features limestone outcroppings, freshwater springs maintaining a constant 72°F year-round, and a subtropical climate with high summer humidity. Seasonal water level fluctuations significantly impact camping accessibility, particularly at river-accessible sites where docking can become challenging.
What to do
Spring swimming access: At Lafayette Blue Springs State Park Campground, campers can enjoy crystal-clear spring water minutes from their tent sites. "Beautiful spring for swimming featuring a limestone bridge way you can snorkel under. 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," notes one visitor.
Bicycling opportunities: Bowman's Landing provides bicycles for campers to explore the grounds. "My son's favorite part was riding around on the provided bicycles and playing darts & cornhole by the communal fire pit," reports Jeremy R.
River paddling: Many campgrounds serve as access points for multi-day paddle trips. The river camps are strategically positioned for day-length paddling segments. "We did a 65 mile paddle on the Suwanee River and stayed at two river camps and a campsite!" shares one paddler at Dowling Park River Camp.
What campers like
Screened sleeping platforms: The river camps feature elevated, insect-proof accommodations. "Screened in pavilions with light/fan and outlets. Each one has a fire pit, grill and water spigot! Quite cute," notes a camper who appreciated these structures during a winter visit to Dowling Park.
Camp host services: Many sites have resident hosts providing additional amenities. "Hosts had firewood for sale! $6/bundle. They were quite friendly," reports a paddler who stayed at Dowling Park River Camp.
Equipment transportation help: The steep riverbanks can make gear hauling difficult, but campgrounds provide solutions. At Woods Ferry River Camp, "There are carts to help you get your gear up the high 200 yard, winding ramp to get to the camp," explains one reviewer who appreciated this feature during difficult weather.
What you should know
Weather contingency planning: Storms can disrupt paddling trips and affect camping conditions. One Woods Ferry camper reported: "There was a terrible storm front that came through and we did not get to finish our trip... The hard part was moving all our boats from the river up to where the van could pick us up. Long ramp in the pouring rain – not fun."
Water level variations: River conditions directly impact camping experiences. "At high water access to stairs to take out and to camp can be difficult," warns a Lafayette Blue Springs visitor.
Wildlife awareness: Proper food storage is essential when tent camping. At Peacock Slough River Camp, campers are advised: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly activities: Bowman's Landing provides entertainment options beyond swimming. "I traveled with two children, and they had a blast the entire time! My daughter says her favorite part was fishing and swimming in the river. My son's favorite part was riding around on the provided bicycles and playing darts & cornhole by the communal fire pit."
Wheelchair accessibility: Some sites offer accessible options. At Lafayette Blue Springs, facilities are "(handicap friendly)" according to reviewers, while Woods Ferry has special accommodations: "Dowling Park must flood at times bc the bathrooms were trailers and some of the pavilions were two stories up with stairs (except one handicap accessible one)."
Site selection for tent campers: The best tent camping near Fort White offers varied terrain options. "The sites are under the most beautiful live oaks," notes a tent camper at Lafayette Blue Springs State Park, highlighting the natural shade beneficial for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Power access for tent campers: Unlike most primitive sites, some tent camping areas offer unexpected amenities. "Great little park with walk-in tent camping, all sites have power and water which is an awesome bonus!" reports an Adams Tract River Camp visitor, noting this unusual feature for tent-only areas.
Reservation planning: For the best tent camping experience near Fort White, Florida, plan ahead during peak seasons. "Reservations can be made for groups and are highly suggested," advises a frequent Adams Tract visitor, though during less busy periods sites may be available without reservations.
