Trenton, Florida sits in the heart of Florida's freshwater spring country with the historic Suwannee River serving as a major natural attraction. The region features a limestone aquifer system that creates multiple natural springs maintaining a constant 72-degree temperature year-round. Camping options near Trenton range from primitive sites to full-hookup RV parks, with most campgrounds situated within walking distance of swimming areas or river access points.
What to do
Spring swimming and snorkeling: Hart Springs Park offers one of the largest spring swimming areas in North Florida. As one camper noted, "The springs here are gorgeous and the swimming area is large. We came in the winter and it was a bit cold to swim, but there are plenty of boardwalks around the rec side of the park to tour the sights" (Jessica C.).
River paddling: Manatee Springs State Park Campground provides excellent kayaking opportunities with wildlife viewing. "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," shared Jordan S. The park features a boardwalk extending to the Suwannee River.
Wildlife viewing: Take advantage of the nature trails at several parks to spot local wildlife. "The biggest dichotomy of Ginny Springs is how can something with constant pressure and crowding over decades remain so incredibly beautiful?" (Perry J.). Early morning hours provide the best opportunity for animal sightings with minimal crowds.
Swimming in natural springs: Otter Springs Park & Campground offers both natural springs and a heated pool. "This private RV and tent campground has a gorgeous hot spring on site which flows into the Suwannee River. Recreation includes swimming, canoeing, hiking, biking and birding," reports Kim W.
What campers like
Boardwalks and river access: Multiple campgrounds feature elevated walkways providing views of natural areas. At Hart Springs Park, "There's a boardwalk that makes a big loop against the river where we have see owls hawks and other large wildlife" (Bri F.).
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept shower houses and restrooms. One camper at Suwannee River Bend RV Park noted the "Super nice shower room with a shampoo, conditioner and body wash dispenser available for free in each stall. A salt scrub exfoliator for your hands" (liz S.).
Quiet camping atmosphere: Campsites outside the major spring areas tend to be more peaceful. "This campground is super quiet and nestled in Florida cow country. The bathrooms are new and very well kept," shared Kelsey G. about Hart Springs Park.
Pet-friendly environments: Most campgrounds welcome pets with designated areas for exercise. At Devil's Den Spring, "Separate tent and RV camping. beautiful cabins and pool... Nice picnic areas and community fire pit... No pets outside of RV area - strictly enforced!" (Jeanene A.).
What you should know
Spring temperature remains constant: The springs maintain a 72-degree temperature year-round, which can feel cold during winter months. "The spring itself is really nicely kept and they have a small but very nice splash pad for the kids. The springs themselves are cold and dark and look better in pictures" (Kat A.).
RV site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Suwannee River Hideaway Campground, "Spots aren't level. Lots of sand and no patio mats allowed... Brick patios are too small and fire pits too deep to enjoy" (Amber H.).
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty connectivity. "Poor / spotty cell service in park, but there's free wifi at the concession stand," noted Laura M. at Manatee Springs State Park.
Varying pet policies: While most campgrounds allow pets, restrictions vary. At Ginnie Springs Outdoors, one camper had to "leave because they don't allow pets" (Danyel P.), while other parks have designated pet areas with specific rules.
Tips for camping with families
Visit springs during weekdays: Popular spring areas get extremely crowded on weekends. "What most people don't realize is that if you get to the spring EARLY in the morning you can have it mostly to yourself and that includes the spring run and river too!" (Perry J.).
Consider cabins during hot months: For families with small children, cabin options provide climate control. At O'Leno State Park, "There are several trails available for hiking and biking and a primitive campsite on Sweetwater Trail" plus "cabins if you don't have a camper" (Christy C.).
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Several parks offer kid-friendly amenities. "The kids loved the playground and pool. It was still too cool to enjoy the spring when we camped but it was nice to walk around and explore," noted Denise G. about Otter Springs Campground.
Pack extra water and cooling supplies: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90 degrees. "The sites along the river are the best... There will definitely see some manatee but swimming up close is a no no. The springs themselves are cold and dark and look better in pictures(at least this time of year) on a hot summer day could be refreshing" (Kat A.).
Tips from RVers
Reserve waterfront sites early: Premium spots with river views book quickly. At Suwannee River Bend RV Park, "Private docks some with deep water access. Different rates for each lot and extremely reasonable" (liz S.).
Check site dimensions carefully: Many older campgrounds have tight turning areas. "The compacted sand road to the sites was very uneven and trees were very close to the road. The RV site was extremely small, our porch was shared with our neighbor" (Brandie B.).
Consider site surface types: Some parks offer paved sites while others have sand or gravel. At Strawberry Fields for RV'ers, sites are "decent and paved. Wish there were trees for some shade" (Amber H.).
Plan for limited on-site services: Many campgrounds lack full service amenities. "Located in the middle of nowhere- Dollar General is four miles away and Walmart is 11 miles (doesn't seem far but on all back roads, it takes a while)" (Julia H.).
