Suwannee River & Recreation
Paddling, fishing, hiking, and trail biking on Florida’s most storied river.
Located along the upper Suwannee River, White Springs is a popular starting point for paddlers on the Wilderness Trail. The river is narrow here and flows through towering pines and stately cypress that line steep riverbanks and high bluffs.
Limestone cliffs and outcroppings plus white sandbars make the upper Suwannee an ideal setting for picnics and leisurely canoe or kayak outings. Stop by local outfitters to customize a paddling trip, a half-day paddling trip, or an overnight adventure — including a trip to Big Shoals, Florida’s only Class III white water rapids.
While in White Springs, visit Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, with museums highlighting the musical career of the artist who made the Suwannee River famous. Stephen Foster’s campground, vacation cabins, and canoe launch make it an ideal base camp for exploring the area.
Things to Do
Paddling
Canoe and kayak the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail. Half-day trips to multi-day adventures including Big Shoals.
Fishing & Hunting
Catfish, bass, and trout inhabit the upper Suwannee. Grab a canoe, a rod, and let the current take you down the river.
Hiking
The Bridge to Bridge trail along the Suwannee River runs from US 41 to State Road 136. Big Shoals State Park has trails for all levels.
Trail Biking
Big Shoals State Park offers fantastic trail-biking paths. Adjacent public lands provide more challenging opportunities.
Stephen Foster Campground
U.S. 41 North
P.O. Box G, White Springs, FL 32096
Park Office: (386) 397-4331
Camping Reservations: (800) 326-3521
Florida National Scenic Trail
White Springs lies on the Florida Trail — one of only eleven National Scenic Trails in the country.
A National Park Service-administered foot path that runs nearly 1,500 miles from the Big Cypress National Preserve to Gulf Islands National Seashore.