Campgrounds and RV parks near Mayo, FL

Paddling is the headline activity. The Suwannee and Withlacoochee rivers are navigable by canoe and kayak, with canoes and kayaks launching at the park's boat ramp at Suwannee River State Park, and outfitters based at Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort And Campground and Ellie Ray's RV Resort. On land, Suwannee River State Park has multiple hiking trails, including riverside walks along Lime Sink Run, plus interpretive signs covering Civil War history near the confluence. Bass and catfish fishing is productive along the river. Cave divers travel from all over the world to explore nearly 33,000 feet of surveyed underwater passages at Peacock Springs, one of the longest underwater cave systems in the continental United States, a short drive from Mayo. Grocery runs and fuel are easiest in Live Oak, roughly a half-hour drive north.

Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons for RV travel in the Suwannee River area. Daytime highs in March through May and October through November sit in a range that suits hiking, paddling, and outdoor cooking without the oppressive humidity of midsummer. Sites at riverside private resorts fill quickly on spring weekends, particularly during spring break and around holiday weekends. Summer runs hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms feeding the Suwannee. River levels can rise sharply after sustained rain, occasionally affecting low-lying primitive sites. Atlantic hurricane season runs June through November, with peak activity from August through October, and the Big Bend coast has seen direct hits in recent seasons, so watch forecasts. Winters are mild but variable. Overnight lows can dip near freezing during cold fronts, and some private resorts run reduced schedules for activities and dining. Snowbird traffic increases from January through March, and monthly-stay sites at parks like Ellie Ray's RV Resort are often reserved well in advance.

Cell coverage is spotty across the river corridor. Reception can drop to one bar or none inside Suwannee River State Park, and is uneven at riverside private sites. Plan for offline maps and download activity information before arrival. Sites at Suwannee River State Park include electricity, water, sewer, picnic table and fire ring, and modern facilities include an ADA-accessible restroom with hot showers, coin-operated laundry, dump station, and drinking water throughout the campground. Private resorts range from tightly packed full-hookup rows to shaded riverfront sites with limited privacy between neighbors. Sandy soil is common, and floor mats help with tent setups. Wildlife includes cypress trees, southern magnolia, herons, American coots, turtles and hawks, plus the occasional alligator along the river. Bring insect repellent for spring through fall, and store food securely. Check current burn restrictions before starting a campfire.