MANATEE
SPRINGS STATE PARK
Chiefland, FL
Contact Information
11650 N.W. 115th St.
Chiefland, Florida 32626
Phone: 352-493-6072
Description
Nestled into the bank of the beautiful Suwannee
River, Manatee Springs State Park provides an intimate
look at the natural wonders found along a river
carved in time and glorified in song. Manatee Springs
is a 2,444 acre park offering excellent swimming
and diving. The spring run is a perfect place to
begin and end a canoeing or kayaking trip. Hiking
trails wonder through hardwood hammocks past ponds,
cypress swamps and sinkholes.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown
365 days a year.
Driving Directions
Manatee Springs State Park is located at the end
of S.R. 320, off U.S. 98, six miles west of Chiefland.
ACTIVITIES
Full Facility Camping
Manatee Springs State Park has a 92-site campground
with electricity and water in each site. These sites
are available for tent or RV use. There are comfort
stations centrally located in each of the loops.
Comfort stations provide hot showers, toilets and
sink facilities. Sites 26-39 and site number 48
are for tent camping only. Located in the Magnolia
1 camping area, these sites allow park visitors
to camp in a more rustic setting. Pets are allowed
in all camping areas. Reservations can be made up
to 11 months in advance for camping.
Youth Camping
Organized groups of six or more can camp in the
Primitive Youth Camp Area. These facilities offer
drinking water and an outdoor shower. These areas
are reserved for non-profit, organized groups.
Concessions
The park concession offers food, drinks, gifts,
camper supplies and canoe rentals.
Scuba Diving
Scuba divers must present their certification upon
registration. Open water, cavern and cave diving
is available in Manatee Spring or Catfish Hotel
Sink. Dive instructors are required to purchase
a Commercial Dive Permit. All divers are required
to register with the office prior to diving.
