Peacock Slough River Camp

For those in Florida seeking an authentic and immersive wilderness experience along the iconic Suwannee River, Peacock Slough River Camp offers a truly unique and refreshing escape. This isn't your typical drive-in campground; it's a strategically placed gem along the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, designed primarily for paddlers and those exploring the river by non-motorized means. Guests consistently rave about its pristine condition and thoughtful amenities, making it a beloved stop for adventurers. Unlike many other camping options, Peacock Slough River Camp provides a blend of rustic charm with unexpected comforts, such as warm showers and screened sleeping platforms. It embodies the spirit of the Suwannee River, offering a tranquil and well-maintained haven amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you're embarking on a multi-day paddling journey or simply looking for a serene spot to unwind, this river camp promises a memorable and comfortable experience.

Peacock Slough River Camp is nestled in the scenic area of Dowling Park, FL 32060, USA. Its address places it directly along the famed Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, making it an integral part of this extensive network of outdoor recreation. It is specifically located near Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park, with the outflow of the spring system often visible at the camp's entrance, providing a captivating natural spectacle. It is important to note that, to maintain the wilderness experience, Peacock Slough River Camp is primarily accessible from the river itself, making it an ideal stop for canoeists, kayakers, and paddlers. In some cases, it may also be accessible via hiking trails from administrative roads, but vehicular access is generally not available directly to the campsites. This intentional design ensures a peaceful and unblemished natural setting, allowing visitors to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the riverside environment. Its strategic position along the Suwannee makes it a convenient and essential stopping point for those navigating the river, often spaced approximately 10 miles from other established parks and campgrounds along the trail.

Peacock Slough River Camp provides a surprising array of well-maintained services and amenities, especially considering its nature as a river-accessible, wilderness-oriented camp. These offerings greatly enhance the comfort and convenience for paddlers and other outdoor enthusiasts. The focus is on providing essential comforts while preserving the natural, rustic feel of the location.

• Screened Sleeping Platforms (Huts): The camp features five screened sleeping platforms, often referred to as "huts," which provide shelter from insects and the elements. Each platform can accommodate up to eight people.
• Electricity in Huts: A significant plus, each screened platform is equipped with an electrical outlet, allowing campers to charge devices or power small appliances.
• Ceiling Fans in Huts: For added comfort, especially during warmer Florida evenings, each screened platform includes a ceiling fan.
• Hammock Hooks: Each platform also has hooks for at least three hammocks, offering alternative sleeping arrangements or a comfortable spot for relaxation.
• Potable Water: A spigot with potable water is available just outside each sleeping platform, ensuring access to fresh drinking water.
• Hot Showers: One of the most praised amenities, the camp provides clean bathhouses with hot showers, a welcome luxury for paddlers after a day on the river.
• Restroom Facilities: Well-maintained and clean restrooms are available for guest use.
• Fire Rings: Each platform area includes a fire ring, perfect for campfires and cooking.
• Picnic Tables: Picnic tables are provided at each platform, offering a convenient dining space.
• Primitive Campsites: In addition to the screened platforms, the camp also offers primitive tent camping areas for those preferring a more traditional setup.
• Picnic Pavilion: A larger communal picnic pavilion is available, suitable for group gatherings or shared meals.
• Canoe/Kayak Racks: Facilities for securing canoes and kayaks near the river access point.
• Wheelbarrows: Some river camps along the trail provide wheelbarrows to help transport gear from the river up to the campsites, a helpful feature for paddlers.

Peacock Slough River Camp boasts several features and highlights that consistently earn it high praise from visitors and make it a standout destination along the Suwannee River. These aspects contribute to its unique charm and excellent reputation.

• Exceptional Cleanliness and Maintenance: Repeatedly highlighted by reviewers, the camp is impeccably clean and very well-maintained, a testament to dedicated staff like Jeannie, who guests praise for keeping the area "clean and beautiful." This commitment to upkeep significantly enhances the visitor experience.
• River-Accessible Wilderness Experience: Offering a true escape into nature, the camp is accessible primarily by river, ensuring a peaceful and uncrowded environment. This unique access method contributes to a genuine wilderness feel.
• Comfortable Screened Sleeping Huts: The screened platforms with electricity and ceiling fans provide a comfortable and bug-free sleeping option, a significant upgrade from traditional tent camping, especially in Florida's climate.
• Warm Showers: The availability of hot showers is a much-appreciated luxury after a day of paddling or exploring, elevating the overall comfort of a wilderness camp.
• Proximity to Suwannee River and Majestic Springs: Its location directly on the Suwannee River allows for immediate access to paddling, and its proximity to majestic springs (like those near Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park) adds another layer of natural beauty and exploration.
• Friendly and Attentive Staff: Visitors consistently commend the staff, such as Jeannie, for their welcoming demeanor and dedication to ensuring a pleasant stay. This personal touch enhances the overall experience.
• Free to Use: As part of the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, use of the river camps is typically free, operating on a first-come, first-served basis (though groups may require reservations), making it an incredibly valuable resource for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: The camp is set amidst the stunning natural landscapes of the Suwannee River basin, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and enjoying serene riverside views.
• Well-Integrated with Suwannee River Wilderness Trail: It serves as a perfect stopover point for multi-day paddling trips, seamlessly integrating into the broader trail system and providing essential amenities along the route.

For those planning a visit or seeking more information about Peacock Slough River Camp, please note the primary mode of access and contact details. As a river camp, direct vehicular access for all visitors is limited or unavailable, and phone contact is typically managed through the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail system.

Address: Dowling Park, FL 32060, USA

Phone: While Peacock Slough River Camp itself does not have a direct, publicly listed phone number for individual contact, inquiries and group reservations for all Suwannee River Camps are generally managed through the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail system. You can typically find information and contact numbers for the trail administration or relevant state park services by searching for "Suwannee River Wilderness Trail reservations" or "Florida State Parks Suwannee River Camps." This central contact point can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding accessibility, reservations (if applicable), and any specific guidelines for the river camps.

For Floridians, Peacock Slough River Camp represents an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural splendor of the Suwannee River in a unique and accessible way. Its location in Dowling Park means it's a relatively short journey for many residents within the state, offering a genuine escape into the wild without the need for extensive travel out of state. The camp's design, with its emphasis on river access and features like screened sleeping platforms with electricity and warm showers, caters specifically to those who appreciate outdoor adventure with a touch of comfort – a perfect blend for local enthusiasts. The highly praised cleanliness and friendly on-site attention ensure a welcoming and stress-free environment. For families or groups looking to explore Florida's majestic springs and rivers by canoe or kayak, this camp provides an ideal, well-equipped, and often free stopping point. It fosters a connection with Florida’s rich natural heritage, allowing locals to fully immerse themselves in paddling, hiking, and enjoying the serene beauty of the Suwannee River. This unique offering makes Peacock Slough River Camp an essential destination for Floridians seeking an authentic, well-supported, and memorable river camping experience close to home.

Peacock Slough River Camp

Dowling Park, FL 32060, USA