The Perfect RV Basecamp: A Long Weekend in Florida's Springlands
Most travelers treat Lake City as a one-night pit stop on the way to somewhere else. We get it — but you're missing the best part. Within a short drive of Sharrah's RV Park sits one of the densest clusters of crystal-clear, 72-degree springs anywhere in Florida, and they can make a long weekend feel like a week away. Park your rig once, set up your full hookups, and use Lake City as your basecamp for three unforgettable days on the water. Here's exactly how to do it.
Why Lake City Is the Ideal Springs Basecamp
Ichetucknee Springs, Ginnie Springs, the Santa Fe River, and a string of smaller springs all sit within roughly 45 minutes of Lake City. Instead of packing up and relocating every day, you settle in once and let the springs come to you. Our 44 pull-through sites mean no unhitching, full hookups (water, electric, and sewer) keep you comfortable after a day in the sun, and you're seconds from I-75 Exit 427 when it's time to head home. There are even two dog parks on-site, so your pup has somewhere to stretch while you plan tomorrow's float.
Day One — Float the Ichetucknee River
Start with the crown jewel. Ichetucknee Springs State Park sits about 25 miles south of Lake City, and its spring-fed river runs gin-clear and a bracing 72 degrees year-round. Tubing is the signature experience: rent a tube or bring your own (under five feet across), and drift through shaded cypress and hardwood hammock while turtles, fish, and the occasional otter pass below you.
A few insider tips to make the day go smoothly:
Arrive early. As of 2026, when the park reaches capacity it temporarily closes to everyone — even guests with reservations or day-passes — and you can't wait on the roadside. Get there near the 8 a.m. opening, especially on weekends and holidays.
Know the launch point. Tubing runs year-round from Dampier's Landing at the South Entrance off US-27. The full summer tubing season runs from the Saturday before Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Pack light. No food, drinks, or disposable items are allowed on the river, and pets aren't permitted on the water — so leave the cooler (and the dog) back at your site.
Add a swim. Swimming is allowed at the Head Spring and Blue Hole Spring if you want to cap the float with a dip.
Day Two — Snorkel and Explore Ginnie Springs & High Springs
Day two heads a little farther south to Ginnie Springs, a privately run park on the Santa Fe River about 40 minutes from Sharrah's. The water here is famous worldwide — snorkelers float over sandy spring boils so clear they look bottomless, and Ginnie is one of the premier cavern and cave diving destinations in the country. If diving isn't your thing, the Santa Fe is perfect for tubing, paddling, and an easy swim.
Afterward, spend the afternoon in nearby High Springs, a charming small town packed with antique shops, local cafes, and good restaurants — a relaxed way to cap the day before heading back to your basecamp.
Day Three — Stay Close to Home
Save day three for the gems right around Lake City. Wander the historic downtown with its mural-lined streets, boutiques, and the landmark Blanche Hotel. If your timing lines up, catch Food Truck Wednesday at Olustee Park. Or stroll the trails and boardwalks at Alligator Lake Park, a sprawling preserve minutes from the park where you can spot wading birds, turtles, and — yes — the occasional alligator. Still craving the water? Gilchrist Blue Springs and the Santa Fe offer one more easy half-day float before you pack up.
Basecamp Tips for a Smooth Springs Weekend
Bring the right gear. Water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, and a dry bag go a long way — the springs are rocky in spots and strict no-disposables rules protect water quality.
Embrace the chill. Springs stay 72 degrees year-round, which feels refreshing in summer and surprisingly doable in winter.
Rent or bring your own. Outside vendors near the parks rent tubes and snorkel gear if you'd rather travel light.
Come home to comfort. Full hookups at Sharrah's mean hot showers and air conditioning waiting after a sun-soaked day — exactly what a basecamp should be.