If you like the water, the Conference & Retreat Center at Advent Christian Village has options for you. Dowling Park is located along what the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail describes as “spring country.” As the river widens, numerous springs and small shoals add to its character. “On hot summer days, spring hopping is a popular pastime for paddlers and boaters who stop to enjoy a cool dip in the clear spring waters.”
A boat ramp provides access to the historic Suwannee River. Prior notice may be required for river-based activities, so please check with us ahead of your visit. Advent Christian Village is an official outfitter and provides shuttle service when requested. Call for pricing.
Swimming in the Suwannee River has been a Dowling Park past time since before European settlers moved into the area. ACV’s White Sands beach offers a comfortable gathering place for swimmers, but there are numerous other areas along the banks for taking a dip.
Fishing along the banks of the Suwannee River offers relaxation at its best. A nearby boat ramp gives access to miles of river fishing. The Suwannee River contains Suwannee bass, largemouth bass, bream, red bellies, crappie, and catfish. The best seasons are March through May and October through November. A Florida Recreational Fishing License may be required.
The Suwannee River is, of course, the subject of the famous Stephen Foster song, “Old Folks at Home.” Foster, who composed the song in 1851, never saw the river he made world famous. Although many of his songs had Southern themes, Foster never lived in the South and visited it only once on a trip down the Mississippi River to New Orleans.