Otter Springs

Should you go?

Otter Springs is the low-key neighbor to Hart Springs: a small spring and run feeding the Suwannee, wrapped in a large county park with an RV resort, heated pool, and miles of trails.

The spring itself is modest by Florida standards, but as a base camp for exploring the Suwannee Valley springs — Hart, Fanning, Manatee, and the Gilchrist cluster are all close — it's hard to beat.

Visiting

Around $5 per person (Gilchrist County — verify), 8am to sunset. The RV park and cabins are the main draw; day visitors get the spring, boardwalks, and trails. Kayak launches onto the Suwannee.

When to go

Outside the winter snowbird season, when the RV park is at its busiest. The spring itself is quiet year-round.

Local tips

Treat this as lodging with a spring attached rather than a destination spring. Bikes are useful — the park is large.

Rules & restrictions

Day-use access is separate from camping rates. Standard county park rules; clarity is river-dependent.

Plan your trip

What to pack for the springs Best time to visit Springs with camping Best springs for kayaking

Plan your visit to Otter Springs

Our full springs packing list — everything we actually carrySee the list →

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Good to know

Dogs: Yes, leashed. Season: Year-round.

Facilities

Large RV park with full hookups, cabins, tent sites, heated pool, recreation hall, trails, restrooms and showers, and a kayak launch.

Wildlife you may see

Otters occasionally live up to the name, along with turtles, deer on the trails, and abundant birdlife along the Suwannee.

History & background

Once a private resort, the property was acquired by Gilchrist County and redeveloped as a park and RV resort with a spring at its center.

Map & directions

Get directions →

FAQs

Is Otter Springs worth visiting?

As a camping base for the Suwannee Valley springs, yes. As a standalone swimming destination, Hart Springs ten minutes away is the better spring.

Does Otter Springs have RV hookups?

Yes u2014 it operates a large RV park with full hookups plus cabins and tent sites.

Can you kayak at Otter Springs?

Yes u2014 the spring run leads to the Suwannee River, with launch access in the park.

Visitor photos

See this week’s shots: Instagram #ottersprings · TikTok #ottersprings

Great for: Camping · Family-Friendly · Kayaking · Swimming