Discover the best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Lake City, Florida

United States
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Florida
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Lake City

97% (1083 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Lake City

Star Hosts in Lake City

Under $50

99%

(170)

Kokomo Farms

13 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Live Oak, FL

Kokomo Farms is an Organic rescue farm on approximately 20 acres. We named Kokomo Farms after our two loves. We traveled for years only to discover Kokomo is inside of us all . Our love for unwanted animals from horses, pigs chickens, ducks, dogs, birds (well you get the idea) allows us to care for rescued animals. We offer many different unique stays from our Glamping Netted Hanging Round Bed to a converted Shipping Container made into an Eco Friendly Tiny Home to even a Tiny House Cottage and a treehouse! Soak in our zen garden hot tub . The Zen garden is a peaceful botanical retreat. It's a fun and romantic vibe if you love animals to just relax and breathe! Bring a good book to read on the back porch of the Main house, add your artistic talents to our artwall, lie on our stargazing bed and enjoy our beautiful dark skies, meander thru the greenhouse, or enjoy our weekend community fires, or just Wander around Kokomo's spacious property which includes a beautiful Hammock of 200+ yr old Live Oak trees. Bring carrots to make horse friends. All our animals are retired but love to interact. Rent a Kayak from a local outfitter for the Historic Suwannee River and enjoy North Florida's best natural resources that are very nearby, or just visit our local beautiful springs for a swim or hike! Come enjoy a little of our paradise.

Off Grid River Camping

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · White Springs, FL

Enjoy Peacefulness on the beautiful historic Suwannee River, fish, canoe, kayak, hike, bike, view wildlife. The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is within 8 miles of this property and about 7 miles from the Stephen Foster Memorial State Park. Many Springs are located close by where you can swim and scuba dive. There is a Canoe Outpost close by that offers drop off and pick up with canoes. Property has many trees, cement benches around a firepit, picnic table, a large extra work table for cooking. Bring your RV, Tent, Van, Hammock or whatever you are comfortable in. Unwind, relax and enjoy the sounds and beauty of nature. I supply a map of the River and the surrounding area to help you make the most of your experience. If you need help with things I am close by. There is soo much history about the Suwannee River in North Florida! :D It is known that Indians once traveled along these banks and proof has been found from many Arrow Heads and other artifacts being found along the Suwannee River. There are many Springs along the over 240 miles of River as it empties into the Gulf of Mexico. The Suwannee River begins it's journey in the Okefenokee Swamp in South Georgia. This is also where the Suwannee River gets it's tannic color from the decaying vegetation in the swamp. More about the Suwannee River can be found at: MySuwanneeRiver.com

4A River Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fort White, FL

This area was inhabited by indians many years ago and the remnants of their civilization are scattered about in the rivers and land. The Ichetucknee River was named by a tribe of Creek Indians who came down from north Georgia and Alabama, and means "place of the beavers". This area is rich in history and beautiful nature.With over 1/3 acre of dedicated riverfront property on the Santa Fe River, you’ll have all the peace and quiet you can handle in this single spot campsite. The campsite was purpose-built for friends and family who come to visit this slice of paradise we call home. Ideally located in the heart of spring country in North Central Florida, we have over 18 major springs within a 50-mile radius of this location, which allows for all the outdoor exploration and watersports you desire. With tubing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, swimming, boating, and fishing available within feet of the campsite, you can stay nearby or venture out to some of the best springs in the world. Boaters – Private boat ramp is 200 yards up the road on the Santa Fe, public boat ramps within 10 miles on the Santa Fe and Suwannee rivers. Tubers – Tube the private section of the crystal-clear Ichetucknee river accessible only by the homeowners via our 3 waterfront parks. Both get-out parks are within walking distance to the campsite for your convenience. Paddlers – Paddle the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood, or if the time of year is right, venture up to the Ichetucknee State Park to paddle the head waters and north entrance. This is limited in season and numbers to keep the impact on the river to a minimum. Swimmers – Swim the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood via our 9 waterfront parks (6 Santa Fe, 3 Ichetucknee) or venture to either entrance of the Ichetucknee River State Park just a few miles away. Nature lovers – Explore the unspoiled conservation areas within the neighborhood that can be hiked and explored. Setup a hammock and sit by the river and watch all your worries wash away, you may get to see the occasional manatee. Whatever your passion, this campsite accommodates it with electric (50/30/15), water, picnic table, concrete firepit, clothesline and plenty of room to spread out. The neighborhood is golf-cart and UTV friendly and has lots of dirt roads to explore. The deer can be found quite easily every morning and evening while riding around and rarely run away from the vehicles. Area Springs and Recreation attractions include the following springs and state parks. Google search Florida Springs for more information on each.

Bowman's Landing

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Fort White, FL

We are a 12.5 acre campground on the Sante Fe River. We have cabins as well as primitive car campsites directly on the river as well. See the following distances: Ginnie Springs - 6 miles Blue Springs - 9 miles Ichetucknee Springs - 4 miles Gainesville - 38 miles Rum 138 - 8 miles Lake City - 27 miles White Springs - 38 miles Branford - 13 miles High Springs - 12 miles Dollar General - 3 miles Publix - 15 miles Bobs River Place - 20 miles

96%

(48)

Springhill Farm

5 sites · Tents165 acres · Live Oak, FL

This farm has been in my family since the early 60's. I purchased it from my Mom in 2011 after my Dad passed away, hoping and wanting to improve it for the enjoyment of others. It's always been a Fun Place for my family and I feel like it would be a Fun place for your family also. It is a Pine Tree farm with fish ponds, walking trail and is friendly to a lot of different kinds of activities. It's located across the street from the Spirit of Suwannee Music Park, home of several 4 day music event during the year.Learn more about this land:Planted pine-trees with Grand-daddy Live Oak Trees. Two stocked fishing ponds with and extra pond hidden under another group of old cypress and oak trees. Good walking and bike paths. Golf-carts and side-by-sides welcome. Across the street from the Spirit of Suwanee Music Park, home of the largest country music festival in the South. One mile to the banks of the Suwanee River and Suwanee Springs. State owned property within 3/4 mile with extra hiking trails. Canoe Outpost is located across the street which offers a full line of canoe excursions rentals from 4 hour trips to overnight trips and they provide all the gear (tents, canoes, and safety equipment)

12 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Lake City

98%

(289)

4A River Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fort White, FL

This area was inhabited by indians many years ago and the remnants of their civilization are scattered about in the rivers and land. The Ichetucknee River was named by a tribe of Creek Indians who came down from north Georgia and Alabama, and means "place of the beavers". This area is rich in history and beautiful nature.With over 1/3 acre of dedicated riverfront property on the Santa Fe River, you’ll have all the peace and quiet you can handle in this single spot campsite. The campsite was purpose-built for friends and family who come to visit this slice of paradise we call home. Ideally located in the heart of spring country in North Central Florida, we have over 18 major springs within a 50-mile radius of this location, which allows for all the outdoor exploration and watersports you desire. With tubing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, swimming, boating, and fishing available within feet of the campsite, you can stay nearby or venture out to some of the best springs in the world. Boaters – Private boat ramp is 200 yards up the road on the Santa Fe, public boat ramps within 10 miles on the Santa Fe and Suwannee rivers. Tubers – Tube the private section of the crystal-clear Ichetucknee river accessible only by the homeowners via our 3 waterfront parks. Both get-out parks are within walking distance to the campsite for your convenience. Paddlers – Paddle the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood, or if the time of year is right, venture up to the Ichetucknee State Park to paddle the head waters and north entrance. This is limited in season and numbers to keep the impact on the river to a minimum. Swimmers – Swim the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood via our 9 waterfront parks (6 Santa Fe, 3 Ichetucknee) or venture to either entrance of the Ichetucknee River State Park just a few miles away. Nature lovers – Explore the unspoiled conservation areas within the neighborhood that can be hiked and explored. Setup a hammock and sit by the river and watch all your worries wash away, you may get to see the occasional manatee. Whatever your passion, this campsite accommodates it with electric (50/30/15), water, picnic table, concrete firepit, clothesline and plenty of room to spread out. The neighborhood is golf-cart and UTV friendly and has lots of dirt roads to explore. The deer can be found quite easily every morning and evening while riding around and rarely run away from the vehicles. Area Springs and Recreation attractions include the following springs and state parks. Google search Florida Springs for more information on each.

Springhill Farm

5 sites · Tents165 acres · Live Oak, FL

This farm has been in my family since the early 60's. I purchased it from my Mom in 2011 after my Dad passed away, hoping and wanting to improve it for the enjoyment of others. It's always been a Fun Place for my family and I feel like it would be a Fun place for your family also. It is a Pine Tree farm with fish ponds, walking trail and is friendly to a lot of different kinds of activities. It's located across the street from the Spirit of Suwannee Music Park, home of several 4 day music event during the year.Learn more about this land:Planted pine-trees with Grand-daddy Live Oak Trees. Two stocked fishing ponds with and extra pond hidden under another group of old cypress and oak trees. Good walking and bike paths. Golf-carts and side-by-sides welcome. Across the street from the Spirit of Suwanee Music Park, home of the largest country music festival in the South. One mile to the banks of the Suwanee River and Suwanee Springs. State owned property within 3/4 mile with extra hiking trails. Canoe Outpost is located across the street which offers a full line of canoe excursions rentals from 4 hour trips to overnight trips and they provide all the gear (tents, canoes, and safety equipment)

Bowman's Landing

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Fort White, FL

We are a 12.5 acre campground on the Sante Fe River. We have cabins as well as primitive car campsites directly on the river as well. See the following distances: Ginnie Springs - 6 miles Blue Springs - 9 miles Ichetucknee Springs - 4 miles Gainesville - 38 miles Rum 138 - 8 miles Lake City - 27 miles White Springs - 38 miles Branford - 13 miles High Springs - 12 miles Dollar General - 3 miles Publix - 15 miles Bobs River Place - 20 miles

Kokomo Farms

13 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Live Oak, FL

Kokomo Farms is an Organic rescue farm on approximately 20 acres. We named Kokomo Farms after our two loves. We traveled for years only to discover Kokomo is inside of us all . Our love for unwanted animals from horses, pigs chickens, ducks, dogs, birds (well you get the idea) allows us to care for rescued animals. We offer many different unique stays from our Glamping Netted Hanging Round Bed to a converted Shipping Container made into an Eco Friendly Tiny Home to even a Tiny House Cottage and a treehouse! Soak in our zen garden hot tub . The Zen garden is a peaceful botanical retreat. It's a fun and romantic vibe if you love animals to just relax and breathe! Bring a good book to read on the back porch of the Main house, add your artistic talents to our artwall, lie on our stargazing bed and enjoy our beautiful dark skies, meander thru the greenhouse, or enjoy our weekend community fires, or just Wander around Kokomo's spacious property which includes a beautiful Hammock of 200+ yr old Live Oak trees. Bring carrots to make horse friends. All our animals are retired but love to interact. Rent a Kayak from a local outfitter for the Historic Suwannee River and enjoy North Florida's best natural resources that are very nearby, or just visit our local beautiful springs for a swim or hike! Come enjoy a little of our paradise.

Treehouse Cabin Retreat - Florida

3 sites · Lodging4 acres · Old Town, FL

Welcome to the Treehouse Cabin Retreat located near the Suwannee River in Old Town, Florida! If you like camping, you will love this getaway. Our unique Treehouse (one queen bed on main floor plus small single bed in the loft) plus Rustic Cabin rental (1 bedroom with 1 queen bed, loft with double bed) brings you back to nature for relaxation and unplugging. Located just minutes from the Suwannee River with wonderful, clear, freshwater springs that are great for paddling and swimming. Just escape and relax among the trees, play outdoor games and have a campfire, or visit nearby springs, parks and rivers. Enjoy an outdoor shower under the stars. Warm up next to the campfire and create new memories. Old Town is a small town, 20 minutes north of Chiefland, 45 minutes northeast of Cedar Key and 45 minutes northwest of Gainesville. We allow a maximum of 7 people and 2 cars. Our retreat is designed to bring peace and simplicity, it’s a place to disconnect and breathe again. It helps us to rejuvenate and reconnect with nature and as a family. We believe everyone needs time away to breathe, that’s why we are sharing our little piece of nature with you. Trade the cell phone for a book on insect ID (there are plenty of bugs, this is the woods!) Relax in the hammock and look at how bright the stars are. Sit on the deck of the treehouse and enjoy the view of the treetops. Enjoy a refreshing outdoor shower. Breathe.... So disconnect from your busy lifestyle and plan a stay at our Tree House Cabin Retreat where you can relax and leave it all behind. Featured on the DIY Network-Tree House Guys. Find us on Facebook and Instagram as well. Rewrite the "roots" of your life! PLEASE NOTE, we allow up to 2 dogs with fees paid. PLEASE ADD THIS AS AN EXTRA AT THE TIME OF BOOKING. Be sure to read the Treehouse Retreat Rules and let us know if you have questions. This covers what's allowed, not allowed, expectations, things to be aware of, what you should plan to bring, etc. **Please note some of the photos are uploaded by past guests and some of the items pictured may have changed, been replaced, upgraded, etc. Feel free to reach out with any specific questions.

Off Grid River Camping

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · White Springs, FL

Enjoy Peacefulness on the beautiful historic Suwannee River, fish, canoe, kayak, hike, bike, view wildlife. The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is within 8 miles of this property and about 7 miles from the Stephen Foster Memorial State Park. Many Springs are located close by where you can swim and scuba dive. There is a Canoe Outpost close by that offers drop off and pick up with canoes. Property has many trees, cement benches around a firepit, picnic table, a large extra work table for cooking. Bring your RV, Tent, Van, Hammock or whatever you are comfortable in. Unwind, relax and enjoy the sounds and beauty of nature. I supply a map of the River and the surrounding area to help you make the most of your experience. If you need help with things I am close by. There is soo much history about the Suwannee River in North Florida! :D It is known that Indians once traveled along these banks and proof has been found from many Arrow Heads and other artifacts being found along the Suwannee River. There are many Springs along the over 240 miles of River as it empties into the Gulf of Mexico. The Suwannee River begins it's journey in the Okefenokee Swamp in South Georgia. This is also where the Suwannee River gets it's tannic color from the decaying vegetation in the swamp. More about the Suwannee River can be found at: MySuwanneeRiver.com

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Royal Springs Riverfront Retreat

2 sites · RVs1 acre · O'brien, FL

Relax with your feet up by the historic Suwannee River under majestic hickory trees, catch some bass from the dock or along the river bank. Walking distance to Royal Springs and boat ramp. Bring your gear to the Spring Diving capital or go spring hopping in a kayak to the many local springs in the area. Have the site to yourself, or bring your friends as there are 3 full hookups (30 amp) and one electric/water only as well as beautiful spots for tent camping. Just message me and I'll make the additional site(s) available. If you have family or friends without an RV, they can stay next door at Royal Springs River House Retreat: https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/land/florida-royal-springs-river-house-retreat-v1qh9wdy?adults=1&children=0

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Suwannee River Glamping

7 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · White Springs, FL

In 1990 the State of Florida banned logging within 1,000 feet of the Suwannee River so Southeast Timberlands sold off it's holdings and we were lucky enough to purchase 6 acres and 444 feet of riverfront. A designated "Pristine Scenic Waterway" with very steep banks, the Suwannee is one of the few"wild" rivers left in the United States and can rise over 30 feet to flood stage almost overnight; yet due to its unique topography we can access it no matter how high or low the water. The Forest Service has bought up the surrounding lots, creating a 10 mile Conservation corridor supporting the National Scenic Florida Trail, it's clearly marked footpaths and natural attractions. To that end, we have left the old growth upland forest the way we found it. The campsite is a natural feature as is the Zen deck and canoe launch, a swale draining the ridge. The campsite is level, the lane to the river slopes gently dropping in elevation 20 feet over 1,000 in making it easy for able bodied guests to navigate their way to the white sugar sand beach. We want to share our retreat with those who are looking for a real wilderness experience in an exclusive private setting. A Waiver of Liability is required by all guests as the Wilderness is an inherently dangerous place. We only offer one accommodation per weekend with a maximum of 8 people so our guests can have the seclusion they desire and be free to enjoy the natural wonder of the woodland experience in any manner they choose.

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Suwannee Glades

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Jasper, FL

Beautiful secluded camping spot on the Suwannee River bank. Florida National Scenic Trail passes right by the property. Enjoy fishing, canoeing and boating in the river. Both Suwannee River State Park and Madison Blue Spring State Park are 15 minutes away. Gibson County State park with a boat ramp is a few minutes away.

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Moonlit Avenue

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Fort White, FL

Find your bliss on Moonlit Avenue! Once you've read the updates and about the property, or any time that you have questions, just send me a message! UPDATES: Even though I still have my hurricane tracking map out, the cold fronts of autumn have started! While the daytime temps are still in the 80s (thank goodness the 90s are over!) nighttime it will get down to 57 degrees this week, but back into the low 60s by Sunday night 10/27. Still, it's Florida so bring hats and your reusable water bottles (we've got fresh spring water here to fill them!), As of 10/23/24 HELENE/MILTON debris is still in the Santa Fe River. The river has crested and is below flood stage nearby and falling in Three Rivers near the Ichetucknee River. RESOURCES: **Moonlit Avenue Facebook Photo Album for the most up-to-date conditions and pictures here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10159430995895957&type=3 **Rum 138 on Facebook for their updates on Santa Fe River conditions nearby. https://www.facebook.com/Rum138 **River Levels: http://www.mysuwanneeriver.org/realtime/river-levels.php The campsite and boat ramp is closest to Fort White measurement. The BATHHOUSE IS OPERATIONAL! Yes, a working toilet and shower in the woods! Hot water should be operational before it too long. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: *SUNDAY FUNDAYS" and FARMERS MARKET @ Rum 138 --seasonal Sunday Fundays that include a farmers market from 1-5pm and live music from 2-5p. Visit Rum138.com or check out their Facebook page (above.) The property: A private treelined driveway leads back to the primitive campsite where the deer have a regular route along with other forest animals. Goats, chickens (including a rooster), dogs and cats are domesticated nearby. Birds especially love this area and the serenade gets better each year with a wide variety of bird songs. Owls reside nearby and bats have also been known to fly in the sundowning sky! Make sure to bring a blanket for sitting around the campfire and stargazing if temps get into the 60s or below overnight. Whether you're in need of forest bathing, a dip in real fresh spring water (always around 70F or 21C degrees year round!) or looking to explore by water or land, this is a great location. Just a short walk from the Hollingsworth Boat Ramp which can act as a base from which to enjoy many areas nearby for fresh water swimming, paddling, boating or fishing via public parks and private outfitters. Close to Gilchrist Blue Springs and Ichetucknee State Parks, Rum Island Park, and Ginnie Springs Recreation Park. You can enjoy this private and serene primitive camping area in a forested riverfront neighborhood with a great public boat ramp a short walk away. The camping site is about one-half acre with cleared areas for tents and vehicles. A picnic table and two fire rings are provided; one has a grill. Spring well water access currently via hose at the campsite or spigot in bathhouse. Booking includes: One Car Pass to Rum Island Park available ($5 value). Suggestion: Bring cash if you have additional vehicles that need park access. Remember, we only accept one reservation at a time so get with your family and friends and book a date for the woods! THE AREA: The location provides easy access to all the area's rivers and springs, to paddle, swim or fish as well as great shops and restaurants in nearby High Springs or visit our newest addition, The Collective Food Truck Park in nearby Fort White. Check out one of our favorite neighbors, Rum 138 @ Rum138.com! They offer rentals for kayaks and canoes, provide shuttle services and have the latest info on best places to visit on the Santa Fe River. They also host live music and a farmers market on Sunday mornings. Whether you're looking for information or even local art work about the area springs and rivers, or just a cold beer on a hot afternoon, Rum 138 has it all! If you're interested in the Ichetucknee River, visit the state park located near by where tubing, kayaking or just exploring the river forest area great experiences! https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/ichetucknee-springs-state-park Fort White, Florida was constructed in 1836 as a military fort during the Second Seminole War. The purpose of the fort was to protect the Cow Creek Settlement. Supplies were brought up the Santa Fe River by steamboat and were distributed from Fort White to other nearby forts and settlers. The Town of Fort White is located directly off several main thoroughfares; US Hwy. 27, US Hwy. 47, and CR 18, near several State Parks, three (3) major rivers, and crystal-clear springs, some with underwater caves all of which provide many recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, swimming, diving, spelunking, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, bird watching, hiking, biking, etc. Nearby historic High Springs, with a population of about 6,000, is home to a thriving downtown, community parks and is better known as the gateway to the rivers and springs in the area. The area is also a prized location internationally for underwater cave diving. Bones of prehistoric mammals and tools of paleo-Indians have been recovered from springs and rivers near High Springs. Hernando de Soto led his expedition through this area around 1539, and in the 17th-century Indian villages and a large Spanish mission flourished near the Ichetucknee and Santa Fe Rivers. See you soon!

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Paradise Park and River Retreat

2 sites · RVs1 acre · Old Town, FL

My father bought the property next door to the RV sites over 30 yrs ago. After his passing, my husband and I acquired the property. We initially were going to be snowbirds and make this our winter vacation home. After much thought and many winters in PA, we decided to sell our home and make the move south. It was a difficult decision to leave our family, friends and what was comfortable to us. About 3 years after our move, our neighbor asked if we were interested in his property. My husband Jeff and I discussed it and thought it would be a great idea to have a little more land. To make a long story short, that land somehow became Paradise Park River Retreat. My husband and I love this area and wanted to share it with other people who love being outdoors. We hope you'll come and visit Old Pine Landing and see the beauty and uniqueness that our little piece of paradise has to offer.

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Free to Be Acres

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fort White, FL

Welcome to Free to Be Acres. An entire private acre, nestled in the beautiful N Central Florida forest. In spring country you are free to unwind and enjoy all that nature has to offer. Be greeted by a family of deer while enjoying your morning coffee or tea, listen to the barred owls talking to one another in the evenings. You will have easy access to both the Ichetucknee and Santa Fe rivers just a short 5 minute drive from your campsite. Encounter manatees, spotted gar and a multitude of different species of turtles as you float down the crystal clear Ichetucknee river. Spend the day boating or fishing on the Santa Fe or world famous Suwannee River. Just 15 minutes from well known Ginnie Springs, Gilchrist Blue Springs, Rum Island Spring, Ichetucknee Spring State Park, Peacock, Little River, Royal and more. We offer 30/50amp electric and water on site as well as a port o let that has weekly scheduled cleanings. Dumping of black and gray tanks can be done on your way out of town (within a 1/4 mile) for a nominal fee of $15.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

River, stream, or creek camping near Lake City guide

Overview

Originally named Alligator after the indigenous Seminole settlement nearby, Lake City is a northern gateway to Florida that houses several lakes and natural springs. Campsites for RVers, tent campers, and primitive backpackers abound among forests with shady oaks, lush marshes, and the raging rapids of the Suwannee River (just 35 minutes away). Nearby parks like Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, Big Shoals State Park, and Osceola National Forest are great base camps for recharging in nature, exploring the landscape, and attending any of the many festivals celebrating the area’s rich culture.

Where to go

Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park

Named after American composer Stephen Foster (whose song “Old Folks at Home” made the bordering Suwannee River famous), this park features a museum about his songs as well as shaded, ADA-accessible tent and RV campsites with electricity and water hookups that serve as launch points for days spent paddling and canoeing. Primitive group campsites with picnic tables and fire rings can host those attending the park’s Florida Folk Festival in late May. Hipcampers can also find riverside cabins with screened-in porches and full kitchens ready to make a delicious meal out of the fish caught (with a license) along Suwannee.

Big Shoals State Park

Boasting huge stretches of whitewater rapids among limestone bluffs rising 80 feet high, Big Shoals State Park earns a Class III Whitewater classification when the Suwannee River swells to 61 feet above sea level. For a calmer experience, trek down Woodpecker Trail connected to Little Shoals Rapids. There’s no camping in the park, but nearby Hipcamps offer RV, tent, and cabin campsites. Catch a glimpse of bald eagles, scarlet tanagers, and wading birds to flesh out life lists, or witness white-tailed deer and timber rattlesnakes in their natural habitat. Campers visiting to hunt should make sure they have the proper licenses, as hunting is permitted in the wildlife management area during certain game seasons.

Osceola National Forest

Named to honor Seminole leader, hero, and warrior Osceola, Osceola National Forest is 200,000 acres of pine flatwoods and cypress-hardwood swamps, and home to many endangered animals. Waterfront campsites are close to public boat launches and serve as hunting camps during hunting season. There are no reservations for campsites, so Hipcampers arriving early get first pick of electrical and water hookups or primitive camping sites. Fishing, boating, and water-skiing on Ocean Pond are popular activities, as is hiking along the Trampled Track Trail with historical interpretations telling Osceola’s history.

When to go

With average highs near 90°F, summer is a popular time to visit Lake City campgrounds, with lots of opportunities for water recreation like swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking to cool off. The humid, subtropical climate rarely sees cold snaps, even during winter, so many campers find October through March to be the best time for backpacking, tent camping, and car camping when even the muggiest of days cool down to an average of 45°F.