Manatee Springs State Park
Along the Suwannee River, far, far, away near Chiefland, Florida, lies Manatee Springs State Park. This Park offers an off-the-beaten path escape into nature. Known for the crystal-clear springs, lush forest trails, and the manatees that hang out here during the cooler months. Whether you’re a hard-core outdoor addict or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Manatee Springs is worth a visit.
The park’s centerpiece is its first-magnitude spring, producing an impressive 100 million gallons of water daily. This spring not only feeds the Suwannee River but also creates a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The water remains a cool 72°F year-round, making it a perfect spot to cool off on a warm Florida day. During winter, manatees migrate to the warmer spring waters, offering visitors a rare chance to observe these sea cows up close.
Manatee Springs State Park has over eight miles of trails cutting through cypress swamps, hardwood forests, and pine flatwoods, perfect for hiking, spotting wildlife, or snapping some great photos. Keep an eye out for deer, bears, otters, and an impressive lineup of birds, from barred owls to pileated woodpeckers. If you want a different view, you can bring your own or rent a kayak or canoe and paddle the Suwannee River.
The Suwannee River near Manatee Springs is an excellent spot for fly and light tackle anglers targeting largemouth and Suwannee bass. While largemouth bass is well-known, the Suwannee bass is a unique draw to this area, It’s a scrappy, hard-fighting native species found only in a few North Florida rivers. Smaller than its largemouth cousin but just as aggressive, the Suwannee bass thrives in the river’s limestone-bottomed runs, undercut banks, and woody structure. There has been some hybridization between the Suwannee bass and other black bass species in certain areas, but the Suwannee bass itself is a distinct, naturally occurring species.
The park offers a range of camping options, from full-facility sites for RVs to more rustic tent camping spots. Amenities include restrooms, picnic areas, a playground, and a concession stand where you can rent equipment or grab a snack. The campground is surrounded by live oaks and pines, creating a quintessential Florida atmosphere.