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% (1113 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Lake City

Star Hosts in Lake City

Under $50

98%

(280)

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.

97%

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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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Kula Farms + Eco-Retreat

9 sites · Tents42 acres · Mayo, FL

Unplug and come enjoy a beautiful 42 acre sustainable farm & eco-retreat center on the historic Suwannee River in North Florida. This site features two sprawling fields that slope into historic oak hammocks along with your own personal sand beach along the river bank. Watch the sturgeon jump as you cast out your fishing line or enjoy one of the many fresh water springs nearby. Melt the tensions of city life away with us at Kula Farms & Eco-Retreat. Wake up to the morning chorus birdsong & a cool forest breeze on the Suwannee. Sip herbal tea grown on site & crafted by our in-house herbalist and enjoy fresh farm eggs & organic seasonal veggies available for purchase during your stay. Bring the whole family to enjoy our 42 acres of pristine wilderness where you can swim & kayak daily. We're close to Peacock Springs, Royal Springs, Itchetucknee, High Springs and so much more. With boat ramps next door and hiking trails all around the only thing missing is you.

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Private woods near river

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

Find your bliss on Moonlit Avenue! The BATHHOUSE IS OPERATIONAL! Yes, a working toilet and shower in the woods! KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Effective April 1, 2024: South Takeout at Ichetucknee Springs State Park is closed to vehicles through Oct. 1, 2024. Visitors can access the South Takeout via tram or trails located at the south main entrance. The primary south entrance remains open to vehicles and visitors unless parking capacity has been met. Local springs are clear! Especially, Gilchrist Blue, Ginnie Springs, Rum Island and Poe Springs. The property: A private treelined driveway leads to the back of the property 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 as temps get into the 60s 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 is a short walk from the Hollingsworth Boat Ramp and can act as a base to launch from 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. BATHHOUSE IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION! Check out updated pictures from Moonlit Avenue here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10159430995895957&type=3 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 (max 12.) 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!

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

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

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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

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.

Kokomo Farms

13 sites · Lodging20 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.

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

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.

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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Otter River Hideout w/kitchen-bath

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

Otter River Hideout is located by the Ichetucknee Spring State Park (8 mins. drive, 3.6 miles). For another short drive, head on over to Blue Hole Spring (15 mins, 7.9 miles), Ginnie Springs (19 mins. 13 miles), Rum Island Springs (19 mins, 13.7 miles), and Hornsby Spring (20 mins, 14.8 miles). Otter River Hideout amenities include water, sewer, electric (30 amp, 50 amp) and fire pit. There is an outdoor pergola (built by owner) complete with a full kitchen (huge fridge, 6 burner gas stove, pots, pans, micro, toaster over, Kuerig and more), bathroom (flush toilet, sink, shower), and a sitting area with outlets for charging, and ceiling fans. We are pet friendly but please keep on-leash as property is not completely fenced in yet and you must pick up after your pet. ****Please Note: Property is under video surveillance****

Private woods near river

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

Find your bliss on Moonlit Avenue! The BATHHOUSE IS OPERATIONAL! Yes, a working toilet and shower in the woods! KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Effective April 1, 2024: South Takeout at Ichetucknee Springs State Park is closed to vehicles through Oct. 1, 2024. Visitors can access the South Takeout via tram or trails located at the south main entrance. The primary south entrance remains open to vehicles and visitors unless parking capacity has been met. Local springs are clear! Especially, Gilchrist Blue, Ginnie Springs, Rum Island and Poe Springs. The property: A private treelined driveway leads to the back of the property 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 as temps get into the 60s 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 is a short walk from the Hollingsworth Boat Ramp and can act as a base to launch from 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. BATHHOUSE IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION! Check out updated pictures from Moonlit Avenue here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10159430995895957&type=3 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 (max 12.) 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!

Kula Farms + Eco-Retreat

9 sites · Tents42 acres · Mayo, FL

Unplug and come enjoy a beautiful 42 acre sustainable farm & eco-retreat center on the historic Suwannee River in North Florida. This site features two sprawling fields that slope into historic oak hammocks along with your own personal sand beach along the river bank. Watch the sturgeon jump as you cast out your fishing line or enjoy one of the many fresh water springs nearby. Melt the tensions of city life away with us at Kula Farms & Eco-Retreat. Wake up to the morning chorus birdsong & a cool forest breeze on the Suwannee. Sip herbal tea grown on site & crafted by our in-house herbalist and enjoy fresh farm eggs & organic seasonal veggies available for purchase during your stay. Bring the whole family to enjoy our 42 acres of pristine wilderness where you can swim & kayak daily. We're close to Peacock Springs, Royal Springs, Itchetucknee, High Springs and so much more. With boat ramps next door and hiking trails all around the only thing missing is you.

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The Bird Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · O'brien, FL

The Bird Ranch is 4 acres of peaceful nature. We have 3 pioneer sites (2 with fire pits), and one RV hook-up (power and water) to choose from. We never really know what wildlife is wondering around or when they might pop up. Rest assure though; there are always birds singing, crickets chirping, frogs croaking, owls hooting, and we can even hear the neighboring pigs, chickens, cows, goats and dogs from time to time. I will take all that over city noise any day of the week! The Gofer Turtles are protected wildlife here, but please do not disturb any of the animals or their homes. The property has trails, an open field for games, and plenty of day outings to do. There are 2 natural springs (Royal and Little River) off the Suwannee River that are each a 10-minute drive. Branford Springs and Troy Springs are within 20 minutes. You can float down the Ichetucknee River on an innertube, catch a local rodeo just down Hwy 129 or take a 3 hour round trip bike ride on the Suwannee River Greenway. The Mystic Jungle Educational Facility is a quick 15 minutes up Hwy 129 where you can learn about their wild animals on a guided tour, but they are only open on Saturdays. Cedar Key is a quiet little town 1.5 hours away with cute shops and restaurants for a nice day trip. They roll up the streets after sunset; but what a beautiful sunset! There are also a few horseback riding ranches within 20 minutes from the property and if you're really adventurous and want to ride a camel; Lonesome Chicken Camel Ranch is less than an hour away. Please be courteous of your fellow campers and my neighbors by adhering to a 10 pm noise maintenance.

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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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Florida Georgia Line River Camp

25 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · GA

Welcome, y'all, to Blackwater Ranch, where the sun shines bright and the river flows steadily. We're nestled right on the most southern part of Georgia, on the Florida-Georgia line, where the pristine Blackwaters of the Saint Mary’s River meander through the countryside. Conveniently located only 45 minutes from the Southside of Jacksonville and St. Augustine, it's only an hour's drive. Blackwater Ranch spans 10 acres and boasts 1300 feet of scenic riverfront, complemented by 2 acres of open field. The rest of the property is lush woods where the pines sway in the wind and wild huckleberries grow everywhere! We cater exclusively to private venue events, tent campers, and small camping trailers, ensuring a peaceful retreat. The property is surrounded by over 150 acres of protected Florida Sanctuary woods, providing a quiet and private stay. Most guests during their stay see very few people, if any at all, on the grounds and river, so if you're into privacy, you must check us out. Also, no one lives on the property, so you don't have to worry about us bothering you or dogs greeting you when you arrive. Our facilities include an outhouse with lighting and a handwash sink. Additionally, we offer a spacious 70' covered pavilion, ideal for gatherings and events, available for reservation upon request. For recreational activities, guests can enjoy our trails around the property, 8' picnic tables perfect for outdoor dining, as well as fishing, kayaking, and swimming in the river with white beach sand under your feet (please be mindful of seasonal and local weather depth changes 2'-13') and some of the best nighttime stargazing around. We provide rental services for kayaks, canoes, and Jon boats, allowing guests to explore the Saint Mary’s River at their leisure. In the evening, gather around our firepit or have your own. Looking ahead, we are committed to enhancing our property with amenities such as hot showers, designated tent sites, and glamping options complete with fire pits and grills. Cabins are also in development. Join us at Blackwater Ranch for a unique outdoor experience. We are dedicated to creating memories for your exploration in a peaceful and relaxing outdoor environment. COMMON QUESTIONS: One question we receive all the time is... why is the river black? Great question! Well, the water is black because it is rich with tannins from the headwaters of the Okefenokee Wildlife Refuge, the largest blackwater swamp in North America, with its peat-filled freshwater. The water is tea-colored but appears black in water over 1' deep. Another question we get often is whether the river is safe to swim in. Of course, it is! In fact, the water might be one of the best types of water to swim/bathe in, due to the rich tannic acid in the water that kills odor-causing bacteria and mosquito larvae. So go ahead and take a dip and let the river wash away your troubles and worries. Is the river beach shelly/rocky/rough on the feet? It's honestly the opposite. Our property sits on an ancient oceanfront dune formed over 6,000 thousand years ago called "Trail Ridge". The property has soft white beach sand with very few sticks or branches in the water of the swimming areas. No need for swimming shoes, but feel free to bring them if you wish. Does the river stink or have a sulfur smell? NOPE! The river has no smell if any at all. How are the bugs? As for any wooded forested area, we highly recommend bug/tick spray. The property, in general, is not overrun by mosquitoes or bugs, but please plan accordingly. Are there wild animals on the property? YES, they can make an appearance at any time. Is hunting or firearms allowed? NOT AT ALL. This is a private retreat, not a hunting ground. BB guns are ok with adult supervision. Family Friendly? Yes, it is. We want the whole family to enjoy the great outdoors. PLEASE NOTE! No lifeguard is on duty so please keep a careful eye on your kids as the river current can be strong at times. SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK! Are there any grocery or restaurants nearby? YES. There is a small county store with gas only a 2-minute drive with the cheapest ICE around, also a Dollar General (5 min drive), a Walmart is only about a 10-minute drive away, and many other options for groceries and local restaurants. IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY: DIAL 911 or go to the Florida Line Police AG Inspection Station (1-minute drive) Hospital at Ed Fraser Memorial "159 N 3rd St, Macclenny, FL 32063" (10 minute drive) Urgent Care at Family Care "9545 FL-228, Macclenny, FL 32063" (10 Minutes)

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Osceola National Forest

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Suwannee River State Park

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Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park

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Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park

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Lafayette Blue Springs State Park

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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.