Oleno State Park and River Rise Magnolia Campground

Welcome to Oleno State Park and River Rise Magnolia Campground, a cherished natural gem nestled in the heart of North Florida. For locals and visitors alike, this destination offers an unparalleled opportunity to reconnect with the great outdoors. Imagine peaceful mornings surrounded by abundant wildlife, adventurous days exploring scenic trails, and relaxing evenings under a canopy of stars. Whether you're a seasoned camper, a casual hiker, or simply seeking a tranquil escape from the everyday hustle, Oleno State Park provides a perfect blend of recreational activities and natural beauty.

This beautiful park is not just a campground; it's a living testament to Florida's rich ecological heritage and a unique geological wonder. Here, the Santa Fe River performs its remarkable disappearing act, flowing underground into a sinkhole and re-emerging miles away at River Rise Preserve State Park, forming a captivating natural land bridge. This incredible phenomenon, along with the park's history and diverse ecosystems, makes it a truly special place to explore.

Oleno State Park has been a haven for outdoor enthusiasts since 1940, making it one of Florida's original state parks. Its development by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s left a legacy of impressive structures and well-maintained grounds, all designed to enhance your experience in nature. From the moment you arrive, you'll feel the inviting atmosphere and understand why so many Floridians consider this a favorite retreat.

Oleno State Park and River Rise Magnolia Campground are conveniently located at 1894 SE Oleno Park Rd, High Springs, FL 32643, USA. This prime location places it just six miles north of the charming town of High Springs, making it easily accessible for residents across North Central Florida and beyond. For those traveling by car, the park is situated off U.S. Highway 41, providing straightforward navigation.

The park's accessibility extends to its trails and facilities. While some larger recreational vehicles might find the narrow roads within the Magnolia campground loop a bit challenging to maneuver, the overall design aims to accommodate a variety of camping setups. Two campsites within the park are wheelchair accessible, ensuring that more visitors can enjoy the natural wonders. The main park entrance leads to the ranger station, which serves as a central hub for information and assistance.

The surrounding area also offers easy access to other popular natural attractions, including the famous Ichetucknee Springs State Park, Ginnie Springs, Gilchrist Blue Springs, and Poe Springs, all within a short drive. This makes Oleno an excellent base camp for exploring the wider springs region of Florida.

• Developed Campgrounds: The park offers two primary camping loops, Magnolia and Dogwood, with a total of 61 campsites. These sites are equipped with water and electric hookups (30 amp and 50 amp variations available), in-ground grills, and picnic tables.

• Clean Restrooms and Showers: Centrally located bathhouses provide clean and well-maintained restroom and shower facilities for campers, ensuring a comfortable stay.

• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RVs, located off the main park drive.

• Primitive Group Camping: For those seeking a more rustic experience or accommodating larger groups, the park offers two primitive group camps with basic amenities like picnic shelters, ground grills, and cold-water showers.

• Cabin Rentals: Historic cabins, some with kitchens and bathrooms, are available for rent, providing a comfortable alternative to traditional camping, particularly suitable for families or those seeking more amenities.

• Canoe/Kayak Rentals: Visitors can rent canoes and kayaks to explore the scenic Santa Fe River.

• Nature Center: An interpretive nature center is open on select days, offering insights into the park's wildlife and ecosystems.

• Picnic Pavilions: Multiple picnic pavilions with grills are scattered throughout the park, perfect for day-use visitors.

• Playground: The Magnolia loop features a playground, making it a family-friendly camping option.

• Pet-Friendly Policy: Well-behaved pets on leashes are welcome in the campgrounds and on trails.

• The Santa Fe River Sink and Rise: This is arguably the park's most famous natural wonder. Visitors can witness the Santa Fe River disappear into a massive sinkhole and then re-emerge miles away, a truly unique geological marvel. The River Trail offers an excellent vantage point for this phenomenon.

• Extensive Trail System: Oleno State Park boasts over 11 miles of multi-use trails for hiking and biking, which connect to an additional 35 miles of trails within the adjacent River Rise Preserve State Park. These trails wind through diverse landscapes, including hardwood forests, swamps, and sandhills, offering incredible opportunities for nature observation.

• Historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Structures: The park proudly preserves several original CCC-built structures from the 1930s, including the iconic suspension bridge spanning the Santa Fe River, log pavilions, and cabins, adding a historical dimension to your visit. There's even a CCC museum on-site.

• Abundant Wildlife: As evidenced by customer reviews, the park is teeming with wildlife. Deer are frequently spotted, and a wide variety of birds, including owls, red hawks, and finches, make it a popular destination for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for gopher tortoises and other native species.

• Paved and Dirt Bike & Hike Trails: The accessibility of diverse trails, from paved paths perfect for e-bikes to more rugged dirt trails for adventurous hikers, ensures there's something for every activity level.

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Many visitors highlight the quiet and serene ambiance of the campground, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and unwinding in nature.

• River Access for Paddling and Fishing: The Santa Fe River provides opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for species like bass, catfish, and bream.

Address: 1894 SE Oleno Park Rd, High Springs, FL 32643, USA

Phone: (386) 454-1853

Mobile Phone: +1 386-454-1853

Oleno State Park and River Rise Magnolia Campground is an exceptional destination perfectly suited for Floridians seeking an accessible and enriching outdoor experience. Its proximity to major population centers, coupled with its serene natural environment, makes it an ideal spot for a quick weekend getaway or an extended vacation without the need for extensive travel.

For families, the park offers a safe and engaging environment. The playground in the Magnolia loop, coupled with easy access to trails and river activities, ensures that children of all ages will find something to enjoy. The presence of abundant wildlife, such as deer and a variety of birds, provides educational opportunities and creates memorable encounters with nature. The clean restrooms and well-maintained facilities, as highlighted by numerous visitors, contribute to a comfortable and stress-free camping experience.

Adventure seekers will appreciate the extensive network of multi-use trails that cater to hikers, bikers, and even equestrians. The connection to River Rise Preserve State Park significantly expands the exploration possibilities, offering miles of varied terrain. The Santa Fe River itself presents unique paddling and fishing opportunities, allowing locals to enjoy Florida's waterways in a pristine setting.

Furthermore, the park's historical significance, with its preserved CCC structures and interpretive displays, offers a glimpse into Florida's past, adding an educational layer to the recreational activities. It's a place where you can relax, learn, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that defines our state. While some larger RVs may require careful maneuvering in certain areas, the overall positive feedback regarding the quiet atmosphere, clean sites, and welcoming environment speaks volumes about its suitability for local residents looking for a genuine Florida camping adventure. Oleno State Park is more than just a campground; it’s a community treasure that truly embodies the spirit of Florida’s natural heritage.

Oleno State Park and River Rise Magnolia Campground

1894 SE Oleno Park Rd, High Springs, FL 32643, USA