Suwannee River State Park — Attraction in Live Oak

My Family and I just got back from a 3 day stay at Suwannee River State Park and after reading the reviews on this park (the majority of which are far too old too be relevant) I felt it necessary to post a review for those considering this as a destination. Let's establish a point of reference, this park is in the middle of nowhere which means a few important things to consider: go through your supply list because other than a local convenient store you are miles away from anything else, cell phone coverage is spotty at best and inconsistent from day to day. The last two points are great if that's what your looking for, very little to no noise pollution (honestly it's amazing how much there is that we don't recognize until we do without it), no wifi/cable/tv/data meant my kids had to find things that they could do without a screen. Cabins: When we walked in with the disinfectant spray and wipes expecting to have to do a little work to bring it up to "Wife" standards, we were pleasantly surprised to smell nothing but clean and after the detailed inspection of the cabin it was given the approval stamp by my Wife who has failed some 5 star hotels before. The cabins were wonderfully equipped with utensils, more than adequate a/c, hot water, ceiling fans, great dining room table with chairs and the one we were in (#3) had a sit at kitchen bar. Wrap around screened porch with a fantastic swing, rocking chairs, a couples rocking chair, and a picnic bench. The Park: First let me say that I do not agree with any of the previous negative reviews about the Rangers, they were all very friendly, helpful, and informative. You could see them working hard every day to keep the park clean and in great shape. Ok, this park has a medium sized playground and lots of trails for hiking on the banks of the river and in the forest. Not minimizing the great trails and adventures that go with it, please don't expect anything else, there was enough to explore for 3 kids that they didn't ask for anything else. Bottom line: Highly recommend for anyone wanting to get away from the noise and...

This park is a beautiful gem. So much history has taken place here, and the park does a great job sharing the history of the area along the many nature trails. It also offers plenty of picnic areas, restrooms, camping, and cabins, as well as a boat ramp.

We arrived at the park mid afternoon, and it was quite hot, which made walking the trails a little unbearable. However, it is still very much enjoyable. There is so much wildlife to see and history along the way. We did not get to explore all the trails but have plans to return to explore more.

The entry fee is $5, and the park ranger is not always at entry, but they do supply blue envelope for payment. If you are a local, I would recommend considering a yearly state park pass.

This park does not offer a specific swimming area. However, one can wander down to the river bank and find a nice sandy spot to swim and enjoy the beauty of the Suwannee River. There is also a boat ramp located within the park. Before launching your boat, I would recommend talking with locals as the river does contain some shoals as well as many shallow spots within the river, which will take some navigation depending on the river levels.

The park offers camping, RV sites, and cabins year round. The park is open every day of the year. The camping sites are available for $22 a night, and the cabins are available for $100 dollars a night. You can visit the website to book cabins. One of the cabins C5 is handicap accessible. As much of the park is as well.

There are a couple of Pavillions on site with picnic tables and restrooms attached that would make a great place for a family gathering. Grills are on site. The restrooms were very clean and spacious. The views of the river are spectacular from the many swings along the river banks. The park does allow you to reserve the Pavillions for $45.

This park has so much to offer and is such a beautiful peaceful place to visit. If you need to get away from all the noise of everyday life I would recommend visiting this beautiful park. You will...

We stayed in the cabins that was a short ways from the Suwanee River. The cabin came with a fully equipped kitchen with kitchen plates, cups, utensils. And the main bedroom had a queen size bed, the second bedroom had two twin beds. Sheets, towels and blankets were provided for $100 a night. Reservations are made online with Florida State parks.

The living room had two couches and a dinner table and chairs. They had a large stone fireplace with an electric heater simulating the look of a fire. It worked well. Everything was clean and well maintained.

The woods were around us giving us a quiet peaceful experience while we sat on the large wrap around screened porch. It was very nice sitting in the provided rocking chairs and porch swing. Behind the cabin is a picnic table and firepit. There was lots of firewood to gather as the park had many trees blown down by a hurricane last year. While gathering wood I got a tick on me so watch out for ticks.

The Suwanee River was very high due to much rainfall and only experienced kayakers were recommended to go on the river. We are beginners so we enjoyed walking the trails and visiting other State parks nearby. The Stephen Foster Memorial was my favorite. Made in the 1940's it's still in good shape and has an interesting museum dedicated to Stephen Foster...