Easy Water Access in Dixie County: Get On the Water Fast
In Dixie County, the best days don’t start in a parking garage or a long line. They start with a key turn, a short walk, and a clean, simple path to the water.
That easy access is what makes Dixie County feel different than so much of Florida. Here, water isn’t a “special occasion” activity. It’s part of the everyday rhythm. River mouths, quiet canals, boat ramps, wildlife-filled backwaters, and Gulf of America marsh flats are close at hand, with room to breathe and a whole lot less hustle.
There are many access areas to plan around
Exploring the waterways of Dixie County is easy, whether you bring your own boat or prefer to rent once you arrive. Public boat ramps line the south side of the Suwannee River, making it simple to get on the water at almost any point along its scenic course.
No boat? No problem. AW Kayak Expeditions, located at Suwannee River Bend RV Resort, offers kayak rentals—perfect for a quiet paddle through this iconic river.
If a motorized day on the water sounds more your speed, pontoon boats are available at Yellow Jacket RV Resort, conveniently docked right on the river. It’s an easy, comfortable way to soak in the views without breaking a sweat.
To experience the Suwannee Delta as it opens into the Gulf of America, head to the coastal town of Suwannee. You’ll find boat ramps and supplies at both local marinas as well as another convenient launch right off Highway 349.
Farther north, more access points await. Horseshoe Beach offers public ramps with direct access to the Gulf, while Jena provides entry via the mouth of the Steinhatchee River. In Jena,
Good Times Motel & Marina makes things even easier by also offering on-site boat rentals.
For travelers who enjoy the road less traveled, seek out the Shired Island boat ramp tucked between Suwannee and Horseshoe Beach, or launch from Rocky Creek in Jena for direct Gulf access just south of the Steinhatchee area. Wherever you choose to launch, these waterways invite you to slow down, explore, and discover the hidden coast of North Florida from its best angle—on the water.
How to plan a “launch-and-go” Dixie County day
Option A: The simple boat day on the Suwannee River
- Launch at a nearby ramp (many are free in Dixie County).
- Cruise the Suwannee River, visit the nature springs, pull up to the dock and mingle with the locals at the Suwannee Belle Landing Restaurant & river side bar, with live music on Sunday afternoons.
- To enjoy it all, many stay the night at the riverside Suwannee Gables Motel, cruising up river on day one and down river on day two.
Option B: Explore Florida’s Hidden Coastline of the Gulf
- Launch at one of the coastal communities or ramps listed above, but be sure to know your tides and access depth.
- Explore the side creeks and maybe get in a little shoreline fishing.
- Take it slow and know your water depths, and enjoy the golden sunsets.
Option C: The paddle day
- Choose a launch site that matches your comfort level.
- Pack water, sun protection, bug spray, and a dry bag.
- The birds and the quiet are half the reason you came.
Option D: The summer scalloping-season basecamps
During the scalloping season, easy water access matters even more. Staying close to the water helps you get out early, beat the heat, and keep the day smooth for kids and first-timers.
- Northern Dixie’s coastline of Horseshoe and Jena/Steinhatchee are best
- Have snorkeling gear, scallop bags, and a dive flag, which are all available at the local marinas or stores.
- Be sure you have a scalloping license from FWC, or go out with a guide who will provide you with everything you need.
The Dixie County difference
Dixie County isn’t trying to compete with the flashy parts of Florida. It’s different on purpose.
Here, water activities feel woven into the landscape and the lifestyle. The Suwannee River meets the Gulf of America in a working-coast kind of way. The refuge waters feel wild and wide open. The camps and fish camps keep you close to the action without overcomplicating it.
That’s what sets Dixie County apart. Not bigger, not louder, just easier to slip into a real water day and actually enjoy it.