Chiefland FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Chiefland, Florida.
1. Manatee Springs State Park
SPRING-FED RIVER OASIS
Manatee Springs State Park is a scenic spring and waterfront getaway featuring an 800-foot boardwalk through a cypress forest, leading to a stunning first-magnitude spring that feeds into the Suwannee River. Visitors can swim, snorkel, scuba dive, paddle, or relax on the small beach area, enjoying the cool, clear waters and frequent visits from manatees during cooler months. The park's lush natural setting, abundant wildlife, and crystal-clear spring make it a beloved destination for nature lovers and families.
2. Fanning Springs State Park
BLUE WATERS AND TRAILS
Fanning Springs State Park offers a picturesque setting on the Suwannee River, with its famous clear blue spring providing year-round swimming and snorkeling. Visitors enjoy a sandy beach area, boardwalk trails, and opportunities for kayaking, paddling, and spotting wildlife like turtles and manatees. The park's spacious picnic areas and historic cypress trees create a serene, family-friendly environment ideal for relaxing by the water.
3. Hart Springs Park
FAMILY SPRING ADVENTURE
Hart Springs Park is a popular freshwater swimming hole and spring complex on the Suwannee River, surrounded by lush woods and scenic boardwalks. The park features a large spring-fed swimming area, accessible river trails, and ample spots for kayaking, tubing, and picnicking. Its family-friendly amenities and natural beauty make it a classic North Florida summer escape.
4. Otter Springs Park & Campground
QUIET SPRINGS GETAWAY
Otter Springs Park & Campground is nestled along the Suwannee River, offering a tranquil spring pool for swimming and a sandy waterfront. The park is ideal for families, with shaded picnic areas, nature trails, and easy access to kayaking or canoeing on the river. The quiet, natural surroundings provide a laid-back atmosphere for water recreation and relaxation.
5. Bob's River Place
OLD-SCHOOL RIVER FUN
Bob's River Place is a beloved local hangout on the Suwannee River, known for its nostalgic atmosphere with rope swings, slides, floating docks, and swimming areas. Guests of all ages flock here for classic summer fun, floating on tubes and launching into the river from various platforms. Its laid-back, quirky charm and riverside recreation make it a favorite for thrill-seekers and families.
6. Anderson's Landing
RIVERSIDE BOAT & SWIM
Anderson's Landing provides easy access to the Suwannee River with a public boat ramp, picnic areas, and space for swimming or fishing from the riverbank. The natural riverside setting is perfect for boaters, anglers, and visitors wanting a peaceful spot to enjoy the water. It's a simple, uncrowded escape for those seeking an authentic river experience.
7. Shired Island Beach
GULF COAST SALTWATER BEACH
Shired Island Beach is a remote, natural Gulf of Mexico beach at the mouth of the Steinhatchee and Suwannee rivers, offering sandy shores and saltwater swimming. Visitors enjoy fishing, shelling, birdwatching, and rustic camping along this wild, uncrowded shoreline. The blend of river and ocean environments creates a unique waterfront retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.
8. Steinhatchee Falls
RIVERSIDE PICNIC AND SWIM
Steinhatchee Falls is a scenic spot on the Steinhatchee River, featuring a low waterfall, shallow swimming areas, and expansive riverbanks for picnics and wading. The falls are surrounded by forest, providing a peaceful backdrop for nature walks and water recreation. Its rustic charm and opportunity for a refreshing dip make it a favorite local hideaway.
9. Ichetucknee Springs State Park
TUBING AND CLEAR SPRINGS
Ichetucknee Springs State Park is famous for its crystal-clear spring-fed river, perfect for tubing, swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking through a pristine natural corridor. The park features multiple springheads and sandy swimming areas, with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Its lively summer atmosphere and consistently cool waters make it a must-visit for water lovers.
10. Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground
RIVERFRONT CAMPING & SWIMMING
Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground offers direct river access with sandy swimming areas, boat ramps, and a spring pool for guests to enjoy. The resort features a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with amenities for families, campers, and paddlers. Its riverside setting on the historic Suwannee provides endless options for water recreation and relaxation.