The state of Florida has done a wonderful job of integrating existing state, county and town park facilities, with new state river camps and some private facilities in creating this wonderful wilderness trail for paddlers.   But because of the many different governmental and private interests involved, the quality of the facilities can vary considerably. 

            Gornto Springs is an example of a a camp that has deteriorated significantly through neglect, financial problems or other local issues.  The spring is shabby and choked with weeds.  The swimming stairs and platforms are collapsing.  Trash is left on the ground, even with containers nearby.  The bathrooms are dirty and without toilet paper; a necessity in a day use park.  The camping area is at the end of the boat ramp, with ample evidence that boaters had pulled their boats and trucks through the camping area on their way out.  But even with all this (and the catfish fishermen who launched their boat at 1:30 AM and returned at 5 AM), Gornto Springs was a comfortable and friendly place to spend a night.