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Manatee Springs State Park

 About Manatee Springs State Park

Gum & Cypress trees line Manatee Springs viewed from Suwannee River.

A NOTE FROM THE MANAGER

Larry Steed

With the beautiful changes of fall and the cooler weather approaching everything is perfect for hiking and camping here at Manatee Springs. It is a perfect time for enjoying the outdoors. We have great camping sites available and the wildlife is abundant. Watch out for the hickory nuts as the fall during this time of year!

 

We have a lot of great opportunities for you and your family.  Come join our staff for their programs as well as our events listed on our website. Moonlight paddles and Clay Landing Days are right around the corner to name a few.

 

Even though the spring run closes on November 30th, to boating, be sure to bring your canoe or kayak and take a trip on the Suwannee RIver. Need to rent a canoe or kayak?  SUWANNEE GUIDES & OUTFITTER are at the park Wednesdays through Sundays all summer.  If you like to plan ahead, you can reach them at 352-542-8331. With 24 hour's notice they can provide shuttle trips as well. Be sure to visit the springs as we have already had visits from several manatees and otters.

 

If you are a SCUBA diver, proof of certification is required and you must have a diving partner (no solo diving). All divers must check in by 3:00 p.m. and check out by 5:00 p.m.  If manatees are present in the spring, SCUBA diving is not allowed. Catfish sink is open for diving and manatees are not able to enter that location.
 

Although we do not have a camp store or food concession, vending machines are available for enjoyment 24 hours/day. Suwannee Guides also offer snacks, ice cream and recreational gear along with their canoe/kayak rentals.  


Manatee Springs is a place to escape from technology! Cell phones and satellite dishes have limited to no use here in this river bottomland area. Take advantage of this opportunity to escape your hectic lifestyle, slow down, reduce stress and experience nature. Relax..Renew...Re-create yourself. It is my pleasure to welcome you and your friends/family here to enjoy this unique experience for yourselves!

DESIGNATIONS

The Great Florida Birding Trail Logo The Suwannee River Wilderness Trail Logo The Florida's Springs Logo

GETTING HERE

Manatee Springs State Park is located at the end of S.R. 320, off U.S. 98, six miles west of Chiefland.

GET INVOLVED

  • For forms, information and benefits of volunteering visit Get Involved.
  • Friends of Manatee Springs Parks, Inc.
  • 11650 N.W. 115th Street
    Chiefland, FL 32626

CONCESSIONAIRES

PET POLICY