Florida
Suwannee River: White Springs to Suwannee River State Park
About this paddle route
The Suwannee runs black with tannin out of the Okefenokee and cuts a limestone channel across north Florida, with springs feeding in along the banks the whole way. This upper section is quiet, remote by Florida standards, and served by a chain of purpose-built river camps. The camps are the reason this works as a multi-day trip: screened shelters, water and showers spaced roughly a day of paddling apart, reservable in advance.
Tannin-black water under limestone banks, White Springs down past Holton Creek to the state park at the Withlacoochee.
Highlights
What earns the trip
- River camps with screened sleeping shelters spaced a day apart
- Limestone banks and spring runs the whole length
- Big Shoals, the only significant whitewater in Florida, sits just upstream of the start
- Ends where the Withlacoochee joins at Suwannee River State Park
Stops
- 1
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center
Put-in at White Springs, with parking and a ramp.
- 2
Holton Creek River Camp
Screened shelters, water and showers, roughly the midpoint.
- 3
Suwannee River State Park
Take-out at the Withlacoochee confluence.
When to go
Best time to go
October through April. Summer is hot and buggy, and thunderstorms are daily.
Planner estimate for the mapped line: 2h 47m
Before you go
Know before you go
- River camps must be reserved in advance and are the practical basis of the trip.
- Water level swings a lot. At low water the limestone shoals mean dragging; at high water access ramps flood.
- Alligators are present. Do not clean fish at camp or leave food out.
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