Just over an hour northwest of Gainesville and 90 minutes east of Tallahassee, the rural North Central Florida town of Live Oak is a dream destination for outdoor adventurers and music lovers. The area is home to the iconic Suwannee River, the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park & Campground, freshwater springs for swimming and cave diving, and a host of parks and preserves for hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and horseback riding.
Visitors can choose from a number of ways to explore the famous river, which is referenced in Florida’s state song. The boat ramp at Suwannee River State Park provides access for paddling and boating, and local outfitters offer canoe and kayak rentals and shuttle services. For extended river adventures, there are several river camps and a dozen parks along the 170-mile Suwannee River Wilderness Trail.
Home to two of the area’s many popular freshwater springs, Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park, located about 25 minutes outside of town, draws cave divers from across the globe with 30,000 feet of underwater limestone passages — one of the longest underwater cave systems in the U.S. About nine miles from there, Royal Springs, a favorite swimming spot for families, offers a jumping platform, picnic areas, and access to the Suwannee River.
In town, visitors will find independent restaurants serving classic Southern fare, barbecue, and more, as well as interesting places to shop, from antique stores to boutiques. Families of all ages will want to visit Heritage Park & Gardens, which includes a historic mansion, gardens, disc golf course, playground, and paved walking trail. While in Live Oak, Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park in nearby White Springs is a must-see.
Plan your trip at Visit Suwannee.
WATERWAYS
Splash in the springs and paddle the iconic river.
FAMILY FUN
Visit playgrounds and kid-friendly attractions.
MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Learn about the area’s history and watch the calendar for concerts and events.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Dive, swim, paddle, hike, and explore the parks.
ACCESSIBILITY
Check out Live Oak’s accessible parks.
DINING
Enjoy classic Southern eats, barbecue, and refreshing cocktails.
SHOPPING
Browse antiques, boutique clothing, and more.
SPORTS
Tee off on the historic golf course at Suwannee Country Club.
PLACES TO STAY
Book a stay at a hotel or have a camping adventure.
