When you combine the Flint, Chattahoochee, and Apalachicola Rivers, you get one of Florida's most serene parks -- the aptly named Three Rivers State Park. The park is an outdoor lovers paradise, complete with hiking trails, lake access, and an RV-friendly campground to boot. Lake Seminole is at the center of it all, with both the Flint and Chattahoochee Rivers running into the lake from the north, and a lock and dam at the south limiting the water flow into the Apalachicola River, which eventually runs all the way into the Gulf of Mexico. Centuries ago, the area was used by Native Americans for hunting, fishing, and agriculture. When they were removed from the area, it as used for lumber and turpentine operations until finally becoming a state park in 1955.
Today, visitors to this 686-acre park enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation. Anglers from near and far come to enjoy some of the best freshwater fishing in the state, with Seminole Lake proving plentiful for a variety of species. You could also spend a day paddling around the lake or simply taking in the stunning views along the 2.5-mile shoreline. Hiking and biking are also popular pastimes here, with seven miles of trails to traverse.
After a full day of exploring the park, you can hunker down at one of the park's 30 RV-friendly sites. There's no bad time to visit Three Rivers, as the park's hilly topography makes the area cooler than you might expect, meaning that temperatures are mild year-round. Whether you're staying for an afternoon or a weekend, you'll find plenty to keep you busy when you park the travel trailer at Three Rivers State Park.
Located in northern Florida near the Georgia state line, Three Rivers State Park is just an hour from the state's capital -- Tallahassee. The park is minutes from major routes like US-90 and I-10, so even those with big rigs will find the park easy to access. You'll also be close to the towns of Sneads and Chattahoochee, should you need to stock up on supplies or gas up the RV before entering the park.
The park entrance is located off of River Road, and once inside, you'll be spoiled with smooth, flat roads throughout. The campground is located on the north end of the park, and other main areas of interest can be found further south. Once you've parked the T@B and set up camp, you can explore the park by bike, foot, or boat.
If you're not staying overnight, there is plenty of parking available near the boat ramps, fishing piers, and the picnicking area. You may want to arrive at the park early to secure a spot during the busy summer months.
You may find that one day at Three Rivers State Park simply isn't enough. In that case, you can stay at one of the park's 30 RV-friendly campsites. The campground is located at the north end of the park and offers stunning lake views and water and electric hookups to rigs up to 50 feet in length. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, and restrooms with showers and a dump station can be found nearby.
Overnight guests will also find a boat ramp, a fishing pier, and various hiking trails near the campground. All sites are pet-friendly, and there are three ADA-accessible sites available. The campground is open year-round, and reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance.
Even those camping with a group will have a place to rest their head at Three Rivers State Park. The group campground is located at the south end of the park near the day-use area and is equipped with a large grill, picnic tables, and restrooms with showers. If you are interested in reserving the group campground, call the park office.
If you'd like to get out of the RV for a night or two, then stay at Three Rivers State Park's cabin. The park has one single cabin located on the lakeshore just north of the RV campground. The one-bedroom, one-bathroom cabin is equipped with modern conveniences including electricity, heat, air conditioning, and indoor plumbing. The bedroom is outfitted with a queen-sized bed, and an additional standard size bed can be found in the loft. The kitchen is decked out with appliances and utensils, so all guests will need to bring is food and bedding. Outside, guests will find a patio, grill, and picnic table. The cabin is available year-round, and reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance.
Don't hesitate to bring your bikes along in the motorhome, because Three Rivers State Park has seven miles of scenic biking trails available. No matter your skill level, you'll be able to manage the routes, as there are only moderate elevation changes, and the terrain is fairly smooth. Biking is also a great way to get from point A to point B without deconstructing your campsite. Helmets are recommended though not required, and if you are riding the park roads, be cognizant of motorized vehicles.
The stunning Lake Seminole offers over 37,000 acres of water for a multitude of outdoor recreation opportunities. One of the best ways to enjoy the lake is by boat. The park is equipped with two boat launches, though one is reserved for campground guests only. These ramps are best for small watercraft, so if you've got a larger boat, you may want to head to one of the two public launching areas to the east and west of the park. If you didn't tow your own vessel behind the Sprinter, you can rent a canoe from the park and spend the day paddling around the lake.
Even if you don't get out onto the water, you can still appreciate the scenic views from the shore. A large picnicking area is located on the south side of the park overlooking the lake and is equipped with tables, shelters, and grills. There are also restrooms and hiking trails nearby. For an especially memorable picnicking experience, find a table in the evening and enjoy one of the spectacular sunsets the park is famous for.
If the campground at Three Rivers State Park is full, don't fret. There are plenty of RV parks in and around Tallahassee, and there are also a number of state parks near Three Rivers.
To get a different view of the lake, head over the border into Georgia and park the campervan at Seminole State Park. The park is equipped with two full hookup sites, along with 40 sites that offer electric hookups. Seminole State Park is about 40 minutes north of Three Rivers.
Florida Caverns State Park is just 30 minutes west of the park and is equipped with 35 RV-friendly sites. Overnight guests will stay in comfort here, with water and electric hookups available at every site.
Lake Talquin State Forest is a great option for those looking to beat the crowds and reconnect with nature. Rigs under 25 feet can stay in one of the 30 primitive sites available. Although no hookups are available, generators are allowed. Head about an hour southeast to access the forest.
Three Rivers State Park has a special climate and geology, making it a great place for wildlife watching and birding. The cooler temperatures and freshwater lake allow for plants and animals alike to thrive. If you're lucky, you might see gray foxes, white-tailed deer, or fox squirrels as you wander the trails, and the park is also an excellent birding area. In fact, Three Rivers is even part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles fishing from the lake, and waterfowl by the hundreds that spend their winters at the park. For a complete birding checklist, head to the ranger station.
Once you've parked the Airstream and set up camp, you can stretch your legs on over five miles of hiking trails. You can choose from four self-guided trails, all of which are accessible from the campground and day-use area. All four trails are fairly easy, and you'll walk along rolling hills with great views of Lake Seminole. Your furry friends are also allowed on the trails so long as they are kept on a leash.
An RV vacation to Three Rivers State Park wouldn't be complete without an afternoon spent fishing. Seminole Lake is one of the best fishing holes in the state, and anglers from far and wide come here to take advantage of the plentiful waters. Common catches from the lake include bass (both largemouth and smallmouth), bluegill, catfish, bream, and speckled perch. You can cast out from one of the three fishing piers, one of which is only available to campground guests, or drop a line via boat.
