ST. MARY'S COVE Introduce
Welcome to ST. MARY'S COVE, a true hidden gem nestled along the serene banks of the St. Marys River in Macclenny, Florida. For those of us living in the Sunshine State, finding a quiet, clean, and genuinely welcoming spot to escape the everyday hustle can be a real treasure. ST. MARY'S COVE perfectly embodies this, offering a peaceful retreat whether you're looking to park your RV for a relaxing extended stay or simply enjoy a fun-filled day by the water.
This charming campground stands out for its intimate atmosphere, making it a perfect antidote to crowded tourist traps. It's designed for those who appreciate the simple joys of nature – the gentle flow of the river, the shade of mature trees, and the calm that only a riverside setting can provide. Many visitors have lauded it as a 'quiet RV getaway,' emphasizing its tranquil vibes and beautiful views. Whether your passion is fishing, kayaking, or simply unwinding with a good book, ST. MARY'S COVE provides the ideal backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into everything that makes ST. MARY'S COVE a must-visit destination for Florida locals. We’ll cover its convenient location and how easily accessible it is, the range of services and amenities it offers for both campers and day visitors, its unique features that set it apart, and how you can get in touch to plan your perfect riverside escape. Our goal is to provide you with all the factual, engaging, and slightly promotional information you need to discover your new favorite outdoor spot right here in Florida.
The spirit of ST. MARY'S COVE is truly captured by the positive experiences shared by past guests. From the friendly and accommodating owners to the clean facilities and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, it’s clear that this establishment prides itself on creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone. It’s a place where families can make lasting memories, friends can reconnect with nature, and individuals can find that much-needed moment of peace away from the demands of daily life. For Floridians seeking an authentic and unpretentious outdoor experience, ST. MARY'S COVE delivers on all fronts.
ST. MARY'S COVE is conveniently located at 1909 Steel Bridge Rd, Macclenny, FL 32063, USA. Macclenny, situated in Baker County, is part of Northeast Florida, putting ST. MARY'S COVE within easy reach for residents of Jacksonville, Gainesville, and even those from South Georgia looking for a quick getaway. The campground’s strategic position on the St. Marys River, which forms part of the Florida-Georgia border, provides direct access to its beautiful and often untamed waters.
Accessibility to ST. MARY'S COVE is straightforward for both RVs and day visitors. Steel Bridge Road, while possibly a quieter route, is generally well-suited for all types of vehicles. The ease of access ensures that your journey to relaxation is as smooth as possible, allowing you to quickly transition from the road to the tranquility of the riverside. For those utilizing GPS, entering the full address will guide you directly to this hidden gem.
The location offers a prime starting point for exploring the natural wonders of the region. The St. Marys River itself is a blackwater river known for its serene beauty, making it perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Nearby attractions that complement a stay at ST. MARY'S COVE include the Osceola National Forest, offering extensive hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities, and the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, a vast and wild swamp ecosystem teeming with incredible biodiversity. This makes ST. MARY'S COVE not just a destination, but a fantastic base camp for exploring the unique ecosystems of Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia.
Being close to Macclenny also means that essential services like grocery stores, gas stations, and local eateries are never too far away, providing convenience without detracting from the peaceful camping experience. The balance of natural seclusion and practical accessibility makes ST. MARY'S COVE an ideal choice for both short visits and longer stays, allowing you to enjoy the best of Florida's outdoor offerings with ease.
ST. MARY'S COVE provides a range of thoughtful services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both campers and day visitors:
- RV Campground: Offers shaded sites ideal for RVs, providing a peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere. While specific hookup details aren't widely publicized, reviews suggest comfortable RV accommodations.
- River Access: Easy and direct access to the St. Marys River, perfect for various water activities.
- Day Use Facilities: Open to day visitors for a nominal fee, providing access to the river and common areas.
- Tube Rentals: Available for floating down the river, offering a fun and affordable activity.
- Corn Hole Board Rentals: For casual games and entertainment, enhancing the recreational options.
- Snacks and Drinks for Purchase: Conveniently available on-site for immediate needs.
- Tube Inflation Service: Guests can bring their own tubes and, with the right attachment, have them inflated by staff.
- Friendly and Accommodating Staff/Owners: Consistently praised in reviews for their welcoming demeanor and helpfulness, creating a positive guest experience.
- Clean and Quiet Environment: Maintained to high standards, ensuring a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere free from excessive noise or crowds.
- Fishing Opportunities: The river access makes it an excellent spot for anglers to enjoy fishing.
- Kayaking Opportunities: Ideal for launching kayaks and exploring the tranquil waters of the St. Marys River.
The features and highlights of ST. MARY'S COVE truly contribute to its charm and reputation as a prime Florida outdoor destination:
- Peaceful Riverside Retreat: The most frequently highlighted feature is its quiet, tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and escaping the noise of daily life. This is especially appealing for those seeking a true 'getaway.'
- Direct St. Marys River Access: A major draw for water enthusiasts, allowing for immediate enjoyment of fishing, kayaking, and simply relaxing by the water's edge. The river views are consistently praised.
- Shaded Campsites: The presence of trees provides natural shade, making the RV sites more comfortable, especially during Florida’s warmer months.
- Affordable Day-Use Entry: At just $4 per person (with children under 2 free), it offers a very economical option for families to enjoy a day by the river without the commitment of camping.
- Welcoming and Friendly Owners/Staff: The accommodating and pleasant demeanor of the people in charge significantly enhances the visitor experience, creating a positive and inviting environment.
- No Crowds: Unlike larger, more commercial campgrounds, ST. MARY'S COVE maintains a small, intimate feel, ensuring a more personal and less overwhelming experience.
- Activities and Rentals On-Site: The availability of tube and corn hole rentals, along with snacks and drinks, adds convenience and fun, making it easy to enjoy various activities without needing to leave the premises.
- Ideal for Simple Relaxation: It’s not about elaborate amenities, but rather about providing a clean, safe, and beautiful space to relax, enjoy nature, and participate in low-key outdoor activities.
- "Hidden Gem" Status: Many visitors describe it as a well-kept secret, reinforcing its appeal to those looking for a less commercialized, more authentic outdoor experience.
For inquiries, reservations, or to learn more about ST. MARY'S COVE, you can easily get in touch with their friendly team using the following contact information. It's always advisable to call ahead, especially if you plan to camp or visit during popular periods, to ensure availability and get the most current information on rates and services.
Address: 1909 Steel Bridge Rd, Macclenny, FL 32063, USA
Phone: (904) 259-9980
Mobile Phone: +1 904-259-9980
The owners are noted for being very friendly and accommodating, so don't hesitate to reach out with any questions about RV site specifics, day-use details, or current river conditions for activities like kayaking or fishing. Their direct and personal approach to customer service adds to the welcoming atmosphere that many visitors appreciate, making the planning process for your Florida outdoor adventure as pleasant as the stay itself. You can also likely find more operational details like opening hours on their website, which commonly states they are open from 10:00 am to 08:00 pm.
ST. MARY'S COVE is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in Florida, offering a unique blend of accessibility, affordability, and genuine tranquility that caters perfectly to the desires of Sunshine State residents seeking an outdoor escape.
Firstly, its location in Macclenny, Northeast Florida, makes it a convenient drive for a significant portion of our state's population. For those living in Jacksonville, Gainesville, or even as far south as Orlando, it's an ideal distance for a weekend getaway or a memorable day trip. The ease of getting there means less time spent on the road and more precious moments enjoying the natural beauty that Florida has to offer. This local accessibility is a huge advantage for families and individuals looking for a quick and refreshing change of scenery.
Secondly, the quiet and uncrowded nature of ST. MARY'S COVE resonates deeply with Floridians who might be weary of the state's more bustling tourist destinations. We often seek places where we can truly unwind, and the consistent reviews highlighting its peaceful atmosphere confirm that this is precisely what ST. MARY'S COVE delivers. It's a place where you can hear the gentle sounds of the river, relax without constant noise, and truly feel immersed in nature, making it a perfect antidote to the demands of city life.
Moreover, the direct access to the St. Marys River is a significant draw for local outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy fishing for the day, launching your kayak for an exploration, or simply floating down the river on a tube, the opportunities for water-based recreation are abundant and easily accessible. The affordable day-use fee also means that Floridian families can enjoy a fun and engaging day by the river without breaking the bank, offering excellent value for a memorable outing.
Finally, the personal touch provided by the friendly and accommodating owners creates a welcoming environment that encourages repeat visits. Locals appreciate supporting businesses that treat their guests like family, and the positive feedback on the hosts at ST. MARY'S COVE suggests a strong commitment to guest satisfaction. This sense of being genuinely welcomed and cared for makes it feel like a true home away from home, fostering a loyal community of returning visitors.
In conclusion, ST. MARY'S COVE stands out as an ideal outdoor destination for us Floridians. It combines the serene beauty of the St. Marys River with convenient access, affordability, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere. It's not just a campground; it’s a tranquil retreat where you can relax, reconnect with nature, and create cherished memories, solidifying its place as a cherished local spot for a perfect Florida getaway.
ST. MARY'S COVE Photos










ST. MARY'S COVE Location
ST. MARY'S COVE
1909 Steel Bridge Rd, Macclenny, FL 32063, USA
ST. MARY'S COVE Reviews
Quiet RV Getaway on the St. Marys RiverThis small RV campground on the St. Marys River is the perfect spot to relax and unwind. With shaded sites, easy river access, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s ideal for fishing, kayaking, or just enjoying nature.It’s quiet, clean, and welcoming—no crowds, just good vibes and great views. If you’re looking for a simple riverside retreat, this hidden gem is well worth the visit.
Apr 21, 2025 · M KWe took our family for Memorial Day and had a great time. At $4/person to enter, it is very affordable. Children under 2 are free. They also have tube rentals for $5, corn hole boards for $10, I believe it was. Snacks and drinks were available for purchase also, but we brought our own. You can also bring your own tube's and if they have the right attachment, they'll blow it up for you. The 2 people (owners?) in charge were very friendly and accommodating. We did not camp, we only visited for the day to swim and will be returning to do so again!
Jun 03, 2025 · Alicia DavisOne of the nicer spots of the St Mary's River. Nice sandy beaches, that run for quite a long way; on either side of the boat ramp. Which they actually just remodeled by the way....
Apr 28, 2025 · Alan HolliePerfect place to drop a kayak on the St Mary’s river. Park with picnic tables and a friendly and safe RV park. Well worth the visit and the locals are welcoming.
Oct 12, 2022 · AyoLane HaluskyRv camping only!!!! Thank you for not telling me, Google. Spent many hours on a bike exploring Northern Florida. Wasn't a waste though, Didn't stay over but Brian is a great guy and let me hang around and relax, visit the beach, and gave me water and a ride back to town.
Oct 06, 2023 · David Basara
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