Highlights Of Your Paddling Adventure On Florida’s Mighty Suwannee River
Our Natural North Florida region is blessed to have the Suwannee River as its main freshwater attraction. Yes, we have no crowded beaches or amusement park, but we have Florida’s longest free flowing river. There are no dams and just a few obstructions along its path from White Springs to the Gulf of Mexico.
While the Suwannee River forms up in Georgia’s Okefenokee Swamp, it’s essentially navigable from White Springs, near Jasper in Hamilton County, southward. Motor boats can access most of the river up to Big Shoals, depending on water levels. However, paddling this river,in its entirety or just in segments, can be the “trip of a lifetime”. In your paddlecraft, canoe or kayak, you’ll get to explore the many natural wonders of one of America’s best rivers.
Paddlers can take advantage of the many State Parks-run and managed River Camps. Each has several screened camping platforms, modern bathrooms–and running hot and cold water! During cooler weather, space may be limited, so arrive early and be willing to share space with fellow paddlers. A call to the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail Headquarters at (386) 294-1120 will get you more information. In addition to the River Camps, there are a number of parks (state and private) and campgrounds along the river. For a good look, click HERE
It’s important for visitors to the river to know how important it is to take out only what you bring with you. Take only photos, and you’ll have a lifetime of memories.
Here are a few points of interest:
There’s plenty of additional information on paddling our scenic riverss and waterways HERE. Our 60+page Suwannee River Wilderness Trail Paddling Guide is available online as a PDF.