Suwannee River Wilderness Trail 
Becomes Reality 

-- New vacation cabins underway at "gateway" to historic river -- 

SUWANNEE RIVER -- From the Georgia border to the Gulf of Mexico, outdoor enthusiasts and rural communities today welcomed fresh opportunities along the Suwannee River with the launch of a major public-private partnership. State and local leaders officially cut the ribbon for the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, opening up new adventures for canoe, kayak and boating enthusiasts along the 207-mile historic river. 

"Today, the vision of state and local partners is becoming a reality as we open up new economic and outdoor opportunities along one of Florida's most renowned rivers," said Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary David B. Struhs. "As an international ecotourism destination, the wilderness trail will allow visitors to experience the beauty of the Suwannee while providing an economic boost to surrounding rural counties."

The Suwannee River Wilderness Trail is a partnership program between DEP, the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD) and businesses and communities along the river. The trail provides visitors an opportunity to navigate the entire length of the world-famous Suwannee with convenient rest stops located at one-day intervals. From tents and cabins to motels, hotels, and bed & breakfast inns, eight regional "hubs" with existing infrastructure and recreational opportunities will offer various resting and lodging choices along the way. 

Governor Jeb Bush initiated the project with his five-year, $10 million funding proposal earlier this year. This first installment will finance the construction of five new vacation cabins at the trail's "gateway," Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center, followed by the addition of five cabins at the Suwannee River State Park. Six "river camps," funded by the SRWMD, will offer more rustic overnight accommodations.

"Managers at Florida's award-winning state parks are thrilled about the variety of experiences this trail holds," said Florida State Parks Director Wendy Spencer. "Whether exploring by houseboat or kayak, visitors can discover the natural treasures of the river and the unique communities along its banks." 

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