Tent campgrounds near O'brien, Florida primarily cluster along the Suwannee River, with several locations accessible only by boat. The river corridor offers primitive camping experiences with seasonal temperature variations ranging from humid summers to mild winters. Many sites in this region sit at low elevations, making them susceptible to flooding during high water periods.
What to do
Spring swimming opportunities: Lafayette Blue Springs State Park Campground features a limestone bridge that swimmers can snorkel under. According to Aubrey O., "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."
Paddling excursions: The Suwannee River Wilderness Trail connects Woods Ferry River Camp to other river camps, making multi-day paddling trips possible. Caitlin R. notes, "We did a 65 mile paddle on the Suwanee River and stayed at two river camps and a campsite! We loved all the spots."
Wildlife observation: Watch for native Florida wildlife throughout the river corridor. Jeanene A. advises, "Chuck-will's-widow, owls and frogs will serenade you at night" at Woods Ferry River Camp, while other campers report various animal sightings.
Cave diving exploration: The region contains underwater cave systems popular with certified divers. One camper mentioned, "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."
What campers like
Screened sleeping platforms: Most river camps provide screened pavilions with electricity. At Peacock Slough River Camp, Caitlin R. praised "screened in pavilions with light/fan and outlets. Each one has a fire pit, grill and water spigot! Quite cute :)"
Convenient river access: River camps are designed specifically for paddlers. At Holton Creek River Camp, Tyler R. simply states, "The platforms are amazing. Power, fire ring, and running water. Hot showers also."
Camp host amenities: Many locations have on-site camp hosts who provide supplies. At Dowling Park, Caitlin R. mentioned, "hosts had firewood for sale! $6/bundle. They were quite friendly :)"
Practical equipment: River camps offer practical solutions for moving gear. One camper noted that wheelbarrows are available "to wheel your stuff from the river to campsite. Amazing!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: While many river camps have historically been first-come, first-served, this system may be changing. According to a camper at Adams Tract, "Camps are for river access only and most have camp host on property that may have ice and firewood available for purchase."
Seasonal considerations: Winter offers the best tent camping near O'brien, Florida for those concerned about insects. Caitlin R. mentioned they "were the only ones there at the end of December" during their trip.
Water level impacts: River levels significantly affect access to camps. One camper at Woods Ferry warns, "At high water this ramp can be tricky to unload from in a strong current (we have seen it with no beach visible)."
Access limitations: Not all campgrounds are accessible by vehicle. Randal B. cautions about Woods Ferry: "Would have been great to know this is NOT accessible via a vehicle."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational options: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly activities beyond water sports. Jeremy R. at Bowman's Landing shares, "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."
Food storage practices: Proper food storage is essential with wildlife present. A camper advises, "Always take paddles, PFD's, fishing equipment, food items and valuables to your camping area - do not leave in boats."
Camping gear transport: For the best tent camping experience with kids, use provided equipment to move gear. Earl B. at Lafayette Blue Springs State Park Campground notes, "Walk-in with onsite large wheelbarrow no problem."
Accessibility concerns: Some camps offer handicap-accessible options. Aubrey O. mentions that Lafayette Blue Springs is "handicap friendly," while another camper noted some pavilions at Dowling Park were "two stories up with stairs (except one handicap accessible one)."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most river camps along the Suwannee River accommodate tent camping primarily, with limited RV options. Only Lafayette Blue Springs State Park Campground among the river camps explicitly lists RV accommodation.
Tent camping alternatives: For RVers who want to experience the river but can't access boat-in sites, consider using established campgrounds as base camps. Nancy C. at Bowman's Landing reports, "Beautiful and peaceful vacation on the Santa Fe River. We enjoyed our stay."
Utility considerations: Many sites that accommodate RVs still have limited hookups. At Lafayette Blue Springs, tent sites have "power and water which is an awesome bonus" according to one camper, but dedicated RV hookups are limited.
