Tent camping near Steinhatchee, Florida often requires advance planning due to limited site availability, particularly during winter months when temperatures range from 45°F to 70°F. The area sits at elevations near sea level with minimal topographic variation across the karst landscape. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with summer bringing higher humidity and more challenging paddling conditions on the Suwannee River system.
What to do
Paddling day trips: Lafayette Blue Springs State Park Campground offers convenient access to multiple paddling routes with varying difficulty levels. According to Aubrey O., "If your main purpose for visiting is to swim in the spring make sure to call ahead or go online and check water conditions as this spring is attached to the Suwanee river and can sometimes be 'browned out' due to river levels."
Cave diving exploration: Peacock Slough River Camp attracts specialized adventurers for its underwater features. "The extensive submerged cave system is one of the most beautiful attracting divers from around the world," notes reviewer Jeanene A., who recommends winter visits when "bugs are at bay" and the 72-degree springs provide comfortable diving conditions.
Riverside relaxation: Many campers enjoy simply unwinding by the water. At Bowman's Landing, Jeremy R. reports, "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."
What campers like
Screened sleeping platforms: The river camps along the Suwannee offer protected sleeping areas with unexpected amenities. At Dowling Park River Camp, Caitlin R. discovered, "screened in pavilions with light/fan and outlets. Each one has a fire pit, grill and water spigot! Quite cute."
Convenient campsite access: Despite remote locations, many sites offer solutions for gear transport. Caitlin R. appreciated the "wheelbarrows to wheel your stuff from the river to campsite" at Dowling Park, while Earl B. found at Lafayette Blue Springs that "Walk-in with onsite large wheelbarrow no problem."
Clean facilities: The maintenance of bathhouses receives consistent positive feedback. Jeremy R. noted that at Bowman's Landing, "the camp hosts are unbelievably nice and did a fantastic job, keeping the campground clean."
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: River conditions can significantly impact camping experience and access. At Adams Tract, the campsites provide a "welcome retreat in summer" according to Jeanene A., though "at high water access to stairs to take out and to camp can be difficult."
Wildlife presence: Secure food storage is essential in this region. Jeanene A. advises, "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."
Reservation policies: While some river camps operate on first-come, first-served basis, this is changing. According to reviews, "this system of river camps currently is first come first served with no fee - but that could change soon and screened sleeping platforms may require reservations."
Tips for camping with families
Spring swimming access: Lafayette Blue Springs provides supervised swimming areas with varying depths. Aubrey O. mentions the park features a "Beautiful spring for swimming featuring a limestone bridge way you can snorkel under."
Activity options: Bowman's River Landing offers multiple recreation opportunities beyond water activities. Jeremy R. notes, "My son's favorite part was riding around on the provided bicycles and playing darts & cornhole by the communal fire pit."
Cabin alternatives: For families not ready for tent camping Steinhatchee, Florida offers cabin options. Aubrey O. points out that Lafayette Blue Springs has "5 two bedroom cabins are also on site for rental" with "indoor hot showers available" for cabin guests.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Steinhatchee cater primarily to tent campers with few RV amenities. At Lafayette Blue Springs, Aubrey O. notes that while tent sites have "power and water which is an awesome bonus," larger RVs will find limited accommodation options.
Access challenges: Many riverside campsites require special consideration for RV access. Earl B. visited Lafayette Blue Springs "on a Ural motorcycle" and found the "Camp host beyond helpful and understanding" with the unique transportation needs, suggesting similar assistance might be available for small RVs.
