Tent camping near Lake City, Florida centers around several wilderness sites connected by the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail. The region features sandy riverbanks with limestone outcroppings and natural springs maintaining a constant 72-degree temperature year-round. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting campsite accessibility and river navigation conditions between November and April.
What to do
Swimming at springs: Lafayette Blue Springs State Park offers a limestone bridge you can snorkel under. "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 a visitor to Lafayette Blue Springs State Park.
River paddling: Plan multi-day paddling trips between river camps spaced approximately one day's paddle apart. "We did a 65 mile paddle on the Suwanee River and stayed at two river camps and a campsite! We loved all the spots. These river camps are a TREAT! WOW!" shares a camper at Peacock Slough River Camp.
Forest exploration: Hike through pine forests and alongside creeks in lesser-known areas. "23k acre park, some 30 miles of trails, most well marked, with fording places for canoe/kayak on two different creeks. Horseback trails, an not a lot of people. Trails are kept decently, mostly soft sand, or grass," reports a visitor at Jennings State Forest.
What campers like
Screened sleeping platforms: Many river camps offer elevated platforms with amenities. "The platforms are amazing. Power, fire ring, and running water. Hot showers also," according to a camper at Holton Creek River Camp.
Convenient gear transport: River camps provide solutions for moving equipment from boats. "Wheelbarrows to wheel your stuff from the river to campsite. Amazing!" notes a visitor to Peacock Slough River Camp, who also mentioned "screened in pavilions with light/fan and outlets. Each one has a fire pit, grill and water spigot!"
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer natural separation between camping spots. "The sites were close as you would normally get in an established campground but there was plenty of brush to separate each site," reports a camper at Jennings State Forest. Another camper adds that it has "16 campsite each being semi private you will love the sounds of the wind in the trees and hawks flying over."
What you should know
River-only access: Some camps can't be reached by vehicle. "Would have been great to know this is NOT accessible via a vehicle," warns a camper at Woods Ferry River Camp.
Seasonal considerations: Water levels and insects vary throughout the year. "Wintertime is fantastic here as the bugs are at bay. Springs are 72 degrees year round and are not open to swimming," notes a visitor to Peacock Slough.
Limited facilities: Many sites offer basic amenities only. "Picnic table, fire ring, pit toilet. Old campground deep in the woods. Many white spotted ticks," describes a camper at Jennings State Forest.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across the region. "Cell service gets spotty but if your here to have your nose in your phone, you are missing out," mentions a camper at Jennings State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Biking opportunities: Some campgrounds offer recreational equipment for children. "My son's favorite part was riding around on the provided bicycles and playing darts & cornhole by the communal fire pit," shares a visitor to Bowman's Landing.
Swimming spots: Natural springs provide safe swimming areas for children. "My daughter says her favorite part was fishing and swimming in the river," notes a camper at Bowman's Landing.
Educational opportunities: Learn about Florida's natural systems. "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," explains a camper at Lafayette Blue Springs State Park.
Wildlife watching: Observe native species in their natural habitat. "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," details a camper at Woods Ferry River Camp.
Tips for RVers
Limited RV access: Most river camps aren't suitable for RVs. "Nice and secluded, great for overlanders. Only downfall is the mosquitos," explains a camper at Big Camp Hunt Camp.
Storage considerations: Plan for securing gear while away from your site. "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," advises a camper at Holton Creek River Camp.
Weather preparation: Regional weather patterns affect camping comfort. "Rain forced a 3 day stay. Camp host beyond helpful and understanding as we're on a Ural motorcycle," shares a visitor to Lafayette Blue Springs State Park.
