Visitors can begin their adventure on the 170-mile Suwannee River Wilderness Trail in White Springs, Florida. Here, they will find the upper Suwannee narrow, flowing through towering pines and stately cypress that line the riverbanks and high bluffs. A slow and lazy current make it an ideal setting for picnics and leisurely paddling outings.
The middle stretch from Suwannee River State Park to the town of Branford is spring country. The river widens, with numerous springs and small shoals adding to its character. On hot summer days, spring hopping is a popular pastime for paddlers and boaters who stop to enjoy a cool dip in the clear spring waters.
The lower Suwannee, past the town of Branford, runs wide and deep, making it a favorite area for motor boats and paddlers. The sandy banks become lower, sloping gently toward the river. Anglers on the lower Suwannee have their choice of saltwater or freshwater catches.
From whichever point along the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail you enter the river, you will remember the sound of the river, echoing ancient stories, carrying the tune of cultures past and present for as long as the river flows.
Testimonials
Tell us about your experience on the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail. Sharing your experiences with others will help them prepare for their time on the water. Send comments and photos to Martha Robinson.
“I loved my experience on the Suwannee River. As I paddled my kayak on the river, I felt like I was stepping back in time to a simpler place. At one point, I came to a bend in the river. For a short time, I was alone. I could see no one in front of me or behind me. It was just me, the river and the sounds of nature. I still reflect back to that day when I need to escape the frustrations of my busy days in the city. I look forward to another trip … soon. I want to share it with my friends and family.” -- Sherri (Martin), Tallahassee, Florida
"On behalf of the Woodsmen of Cameron Boys Camp and the N.C. Baptist Children’s Home, thank you for helping us with our Suwannee River trip. Your assistance in helping us find affordable places to camp was invaluable. Thanks again, and God bless." -- Tripp Jarrell
A little over an hour from Tallahassee and I am on Florida's Suwannee River. Myself, a kayak, some water and food and sunshine. Great place to get away from civilization for a while. At times it is so quiet I can hear my heart beat. A hawk soars overhead and two deer come down to the river for a drink. The solitude is awesome - going 3 miles without seeing a soul. Big white sandbars and limestone cliffs around each bend. What a treasure the Suwannee is to all of us here in North Florida. -- Bill Snyder, Tallahassee
Please pass along my compliments for a wonderful series of camps and the SRWT in general. It was a pleasure to meet many of the staff, who were all very courteous and helpful. The camps are a great idea and should draw heavily as they become known.
I have traveled extensively as a kayaker over the years, and can say this was one of the more memorable trips.
I will be back. I love the "real Florida" now that I have spent two trips there.
Thanks -- John Pohlmann, Ohio
I grew up in Jacksonville, Fl and would visit my grandparents in Perry, Fl on holidays and in the summer. For recreation and and food, we would go with many in the family, taking two car loads, to fishing spots(rivers, creeks, lakes) and walk the banks and fish with cane poles(no boat). When there was lots of water we would fish in the ditches. One time about 1950, I was 10 and my grandfather was about 80, we were walking on a path along the banks of the Suwannee River near Live Oak after fishing for several hours. It was late and close to sundown. As we were coming back to the car with our string of Redbreast and Catfish, we heard a loud SCREAM behind us. It sounded like a woman screaming to the top of her lungs. It scared the pants off me! My grandfather told me that it was a panther, that they are curious and will follow your scent. I don't know if he was right or not, but it is an experience I will never forget. I have fished the Suwannee River since, from a canoe, and I can say from experience that there is something about the Suwannee that keeps you coming back. -- Don Richards
My friends and I found the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail by accident. On the weekend of Dec 28-30, 2007 we had planned a 3 day 2 night trip on a river close to home. When the weather forecast called for thunder storms all weekend some being sever we figured it best to cancel the trip. That is when I thought of White Springs and the Suwannee River. I have been to White Springs the past 3 years of the off road bicycle ride IDIDARIDE held annually by Suwannee Bicycle Association (SBA). I remember seeing canoes and kayaks navigating the river as I rode along the trails. After checking the weather for the White Springs area and finding it was going to be a gorgeous weekend I suggested the Suwannee river to my friends.
There was some concern that we knew nothing about the river and what to expect but the local outfitter in town answered every question we had and some we didn't even think of. He also pointed out the camps along the river. Our plans had us sleeping on sandbars washing with baby wipes, but plans change. Having a hot shower, a shelter to sleep in and potable water was a great surprise and a welcome one. Not having to carry gallons of water lightened the load in our kayaks immensely. Imagine our surprise when the outfitter told us the use was free. NOTE: I understand a small fee will be charged starting in 2008 but it is still a great deal.
Our trip took us from Stephen Foster State Park to the Suwannee River State Park. The trip was 43 miles long and we broke into 3 relaxing days. There was no hurry other than to be at the destination camp before dark. The first night was spent at Woods Ferry River Camp and the second night we stayed at Holton Creek River Camp. For what was suppose to be roughing it, it turned out we had first class accommodations.
The people we met along the way were all friendly. Fisherman always said hello and were eager to show us their catches. Other paddlers shared their knowledge of the river and surrounding area and mentioned things we had to see. A gentleman at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park drove one of our folks to the camp store for ice, what great hospitality. The wildlife spottings were breathtaking and frequent. There seemed to be something around every bend in the river which had you wanting to get your camera out. Make sure you don't forget your camera!!! To sum up the experience, on the last day I had to ask my friend what day it was. I was so engulfed in the experience I had lost track of time. I hated to see it end and I cant wait to come back.
This is a great resource we have in the state and as many people as possible should take advantage of it. I am retired military, have traveled all over the country and the world and have never seen anything like the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail. Thank you to all who made this experience one I will never forget.
Dan Steighner
Niceville, Florida
