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Access Point 1: CR 145 Bridge Launch
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Paddling Trail Guide
The Waterway
This tea-colored river gently curves through Twin Rivers State Forest past hardwood forests, crystal-clear springs, and sandbars along the bends. There are some small shoals, but portaging is generally not necessary. The Withlacoochee contributes a significant amount of water to the Suwannee River and the two rivers merge at Suwannee River State Park. The trail ends at the boat ramp in the state park, about a quarter-mile upstream on the Suwannee River. Historically, the junction of the Withlacoochee and Suwannee Rivers was an important point of commerce. In the 1800's, both rivers were used as major commercial routes. Steamboats were a common sight as they carried passengers, freight and mail on the rivers.
The Paddling Experience
This 28-mile paddling trail is generally suitable for beginning to intermediate paddlers, depending on water levels. Rocky shoals are numerous along the river but may not be noticeable during high water levels. The Withlacoochee can be challenging when water levels are low and shoals are more exposed. The Pinetta gauge should read above 54 feet for optimal paddling conditions. If below 54 feet, many of the shoals may be too low to paddle through. Take time to scout the shoals prior to paddling if in doubt. At the confluence of the Suwannee River, paddle upstream on the east side to the boat ramp at the Suwannee River State Park to end your trip. Shuttle vehicles may be left here overnight at the park. The Suwannee River State Park is a stop on the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail and camping and cabins are available.
The put-in points at the CR 145 and CR 150 bridges are located in remote, unpopulated locations and vehicles are left overnight at your own risk. There is no overnight parking allowed at Madison Blue Spring State Park.
Access Points
#1, Start of the trail, CR 145 Bridge, Georgia State Line From Madison, take CR 145 north through Pinetta to the bridge at the Withlacoochee River. Boat ramp is on the Georgia side (northeast) of the river. #2, Mile 5.0, CR 150 Bridge The hand-launch is suitable for carry-in boats only and there are steps to navigate. From Pinetta, take CR 150 5.6 miles to river. Launch is off unpaved road on southwest side of bridge.
#3, Mile 16.0, Madison Blue Spring State Park The hand-launch is suitable for carry-in boats only and is just south of main springs near picnic area. There are steps to navigate and the launch is about 175 yards walk to parking area. From Madison, take US 90 east about two miles to SR 6 intersection, continue on SR 6 another 8 miles to state park entrance on right.
Paddling Trail Guide
#4, Mile 18.0, Madison Boat Ramp From SR 6 turn south onto NE Ivy. Follow 0.7 miles through stop sign at water bottling plant and turn left onto Juniper Road. Follow 0.7 mile through curves and keep heading straight on River Park Road until it ends at park and boat ramp.
#5, Mile 28.0, End of the Trail, Suwannee River State Park From Madison, drive east on US 90 about 16 miles to Suwannee River State Park. Follow signs to the boat ramp located on the Suwannee River. From Live Oak, the state park entrance is about 12 miles west on US 90.
Outfitters and Shuttle Service
Suwannee Canoe Outpost (386) 364-4991
Base Camp
Suwannee River State Park makes an excellent base for exploring the historic, cultural, and recreation opportunities in this scenic region. The Florida National Scenic Trail winds along the banks of the Suwannee River while exciting off-road bike trails and quiet back roads are plentiful, maintained by volunteers of the Suwannee Bike Association. About a quarter mile past the ranger station, a high bluff overlooks the spot where the Withlacoochee River joins the Suwannee River on its way to the Gulf of Mexico. Vestiges of history in the park show how important the Suwannee River was to Florida history. Along the river are long mounds of earthworks built during the Civil War to guard against incursions by Union Navy gunboats. Other remnants from the past include one of the state´s oldest cemeteries, and a paddle-wheel shaft from a 19th century steamboat. Five trails, ranging from a quarter mile to 18 miles, loop through surrounding woodlands and provide panoramic views of the rivers and fascinating geology. For overnight stays, the park has a full-facility campground and comfortable cabins.
Madison Blue Springs, Jill Lingard Suwannee River State Park, Liz Sparks FWC