The best camping near Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Eight springs add a refreshing burst of 72-degree, crystal-clear waters to the Ichetucknee River as it meanders through Ichetucknee Springs State Park, creating a natural lazy river. Recreational opportunities at this national natural landmark center around these waters, including  canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and tubing. Are you brave enough to scuba dive to the cave in Blue Hole Spring? Though the river and Florida springs are focal points, the hiking trails are not to be missed, as they cross through varied landscapes, including cypress floodplains and sandhills. Ichetucknee Springs State Park doesn’t have a campground onsite, but others can be found closeby.

Photo of Ichetucknee Springs used with permission from The Florida Guidebook.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park doesn’t have a campground onsite, but these public options are nearby:

• Best for state park lovers: Combine your visit to Ichetucknee Springs State Park with another Florida state park with a stay at O’Leno State Park’s Magnolia Campground.
• Best for hammocking: O’Leno State Park’s Dogwood Campground has 15 designated hammock campsites, in addition to sites for tents and RVs.
• Best for serenity: Go off-grid with a site at Hog Pen Landing Campground in Osceola National Forest.

1. Reservations for state park campgrounds may be made through the Florida State Parks website or by calling 800-326-3521.
2. Florida residents can make state park campsite reservations 11 months in advance, while non-residents can make reservations 10 months in advance. Some parks fill quickly. 
3. Walk-in registrations are accepted.
4. O’Leno State Park has 61 campsites with water and electric hookups. 
5. Larger vehicles may have difficulty navigating roadways and campsites at O’Leno State Park.

North Florida experiences hot and humid summers, with the potential for frequent rains and thunderstorms. The spring waters remain a constant 72 degrees year round, which is refreshing on even the hottest summer days. Cooler temperatures are found throughout the fall and spring, making them delightful times for hiking. For the best chance to see manatees, visit in winter. You’ll find pleasant temperatures during the day, reaching highs in the 60s and 70s before dipping into the 30s and 40s overnight. Freezes are rare.

• Paddling and tubing rentals are available in the park or from vendors nearby. Or, bring your own.
• Tram services are located onsite to transport tubers and paddlers from their take-out point back to their launch. 
• Launch areas for tubing and paddling, including Midpoint Launch and Dampier’s Landing, have daily limits. Arrive early for the best accessibility. 
• You will share this natural swimming hole with tons of wildlife, including alligators, otters, turtles, and more. 
• Picnic tables and grills are available.
• Venture to the Suwannee River or Santa Fe River to experience more of North Florida’s rich waterways.