NEARBY POINTS OF INTEREST
Written by Mr. Roger E. LaVoie (1940-2019)
Fanning Springs State Park – Just over the bridge and directly across the river from Suwannee River Bend RV Park, where Florida manatee sightings are a common occurrence. With water temperatures 72 degrees year-round, play and splash in the crystal-clear waters of one of Florida’s most pristine freshwater springs.
Nature Coast State Trail – A 32-mile dedicated hiking and biking trail with an access junction in Fanning Springs, just across the bridge from the campground. Built along an abandoned railway route, crossing an old, historic train trestle bridge over the majestic Suwannee River, the Nature Coast State Trail promises to be a highlight of your visit! Don’t have a bicycle? No worries! We have several bikes available for use right here at Suwannee River Bend RV Park.
Town of Suwannee (On the Gulf Coast) – Where the majestic Suwannee River flows into the Gulf of Mexico. A short 25-minute drive from Suwannee River Bend RV Park. Enjoy fishing along the seawall as you watch the beautiful sunsets. Top off your day with a fresh seafood meal on the water’s edge from Salt Creek Restaurant. Tell Ginger that we sent you!
Steinhatchee (On the Gulf Coast) – Often referred to as the “Best Kept Secret in Florida”, this is an outdoorsman’s paradise. Enjoy scalloping season in the summer and fishing year-round. Home to the Fiddler Crab Festival every February on President’s Day weekend.
Cedar Key – An old-fashioned fishing village established in the mid 1800’s, only a 45-minute drive from Suwannee River Bend RV Park. Featuring many elaborately restored homes and businesses, Cedar Key is an artist’s colony and home to many festivals and events. Also, home to one of the largest oyster and clam industries in the state. You can try out these delicacies in one of the many restaurants in town or along the waterfront. Make a day trip of it and visit two state parks and a nature preserve along the way!
Crystal River – A bustling gulf coast town only an hour’s drive away from Suwannee River Bend RV Park. Tons of antique shopping in town and seafood restaurants offering outdoor dining right on the sparkling clear river. Tours are also available.
Gainesville – If you are feeling like a day in the city, then you are in luck: Gainesville, the home of the Fighting Gators, is less than an hour’s drive away. With new and updated outdoor shopping malls (including a Bass Pro Shop), a vast selection of big chain restaurants (including The Cheesecake Factory), and various performing arts centers, you will have no problem finding something to do to satisfy your need for a day, or night, out on the town!
Distance to Attractions (by land):
County Boat Ramp – 0.4 mile
Fanning Springs State Park – 0.6 mile
Nature Coast State Trail – 0.8 mile
Otter Springs Park- 5.9 miles
Hart Springs Park -8.3 miles
Chiefland Golf and Country Club – 12 miles
Manatee Springs State Park – 16 miles
Town of Suwannee (on the Gulf Coast) – 28.5 miles
Steinhatchee (on the Gulf Coast) – 31 miles
Cedar Key (on the Gulf Coast) – 38 miles
Gainesville – 40 miles
Crystal River (on the Gulf Coast) – 56 miles
Restaurants/Grocery:
Suwannee Belle Landing (Riverfront dining on the Suwannee River) – 0.5 mile
Lighthouse Restaurant (Fanning Springs) – 0.6 mile
Cottage Cafe (Old Town) – 2.5 miles
Old Town Family Markets (Old Town) – 2.8 miles
Walmart Supercenter (Chiefland) – 9 miles
Salt Creek Restaurant (Suwannee) – 29.5 miles
Distance to Attractions (by water):
County Boat Ramp – 0.4 mile
Fanning Springs – 0.4 mile
“City of Hawkinsville” Shipwreck – 3.2 miles
Otter Springs – 6.8 miles
Hart Springs – 8.9 miles
Manatee Springs – 9.1 miles
Town of Suwannee – 34 miles
Gulf of Mexico – 34.2 miles
