Woman kayaking down the Ichetucknee River
As other states begin to feel the chill of winter, Suwannee County’s mild Florida temperatures offer the perfect escape. Outdoor adventures, holiday happenings, and local culture still thrive, making it an ideal cold-weather retreat.
Winter Rentals for Snowbirds
Traveling by RV is the preferred choice for snowbirds escaping the winter blues, and Suwannee County is an idyllic destination for long-term campers.
The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park offers 800 expansive acres for camping and recreation. In addition to music events, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like biking, kayaking, disc golf, hiking, swimming, and wildlife watching. The park also offers long-term camping options and snowbird specials.
Suwannee County’s Mild Winter Climate
Compared to northern states, winter in Florida is a breath of fresh air, especially in Suwannee County. In Live Oak, temperatures range from an average high of 63°F in January to a low of 41°F in December. The city enjoys an average of 229 sunny days per year and, what travelers appreciate most — zero inches of snow. These mild days make outdoor activities especially relaxing. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, or fishing, all the activities you enjoy in the summer can be done right here in the winter.
Warm Winter Activities and Attractions
Florida offers year-round recreation opportunities. Whether you’re kayaking along the Suwannee River — unlike northern lakes and rivers, it never freezes — hiking, or, for the daring, taking a polar plunge in the springs, there’s something for everyone.
Natural Springs
Florida’s stunning natural springs aren’t just for the hot summer months. Their constant 72-degree temperature makes them perfect for year-round swimming. These warm waters attract not only travelers, but manatees as well — winter is an ideal time to spot them. If swimming or snorkeling isn’t your style, you can also kayak in bigger springs like Ichetucknee Springs State Park. Other popular spots include Little River, Royal Springs, and Troy Springs.
Birding and Wildlife Viewing
Birding is a popular winter activity in Florida, as migratory birds seek refuge from colder climates. In Suwannee River State Park, visitors can spot American Robins, Ruby-crowned Kinglets and Rusty Blackbirds. At Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park, you might find Brown Creepers, Golden-crowned Kinglets, and Winter Wrens.
Fishing
No need to pack your ice fishing gear for Florida — the springs and rivers never freeze. Instead, you can cast a line just like any other time of year, though in the cooler months you might encounter different species, like snook, which are subject to fishing regulations.
Museums and Historic Sites
While the Suwannee County Historical Museum is temporarily closed for repairs following Hurricane Helene, there are still plenty of historical sites to explore throughout Suwannee County as you enjoy the cool winter breezes. Some of these sites include, but are not limited to the Florida Railway Bridge, Old City Hall, Suwannee County Courthouse, and the ghost town of Ellaville.
Local Events
‘Tis the season for festivities! Along with the cooler temperatures come seasonal events, including Suwannee Lights, which is a drive-thru and walk-thru Christmas light display at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park. It runs nightly from November 29 to December 30 and features over 12 million lights. Other highlights include Christmas on the Square which is one of the largest Christmas festivals in North Florida with over 200 vendors, snow, and the Coca-Cola Santa. Christmas on the Square offers something different every day from December 5th to 7th. The All Aboard Festival celebrates the history of transportation on February 1st. The Strawberry Festival features arts and crafts, strawberry-flavored treats, and more and will be held on February 22nd and 23rd; and the Suwannee County Fair is from March 21 to 29, a tradition that spans over 100 years.
Written By Hayli Zuccola
Hayli Zuccola has been a freelance writer for the last eight years for both digital and print publications across north central Florida. She enjoys traveling, finding the best food spots, and spending time with her pets. You can find her latest adventures on Instagram @hayztravels.