Primitive campsites available free for Hurricane Gustav evacuees

Primitive campsites available free for Hurricane Gustav evacuees

SPIRIT OF THE SUWANNEE MUSIC PARK, LIVE OAK, FLA - Hurricane and tropical storm season is in full swing and North Florida’s premier campground, the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park on the beautiful Suwannee River, is once again prepared to open its doors to those evacuees seeking shelter from the storms.

SOSMP President/CEO James Cornett announced today that the SOSMP will have available primitive campsites at no charge for two days for Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana residents evacuating due to Hurricane Gustav. These sites are available to tent campers, travel trailers or RVers. Upgrades for water, electric and/or sewer are available at regular rates after Sept. 1.

"We want people to be aware that they may come to the SOSMP for shelter. While no one is immune to a strike, we are in one of the least likely areas to be impacted," Cornett stated. Cornett added the SOSMP has primitive camping space for literally thousands of visitors on its more than 700 acres alongside the famous Suwannee River.

The SOSMP has several bath houses available free to guests, a fully-stocked Country Store, the SOS Café (a full-service restaurant), as well as entertainment and many, many other amenities.

Should the SOSMP be impacted by intense or threatening weather, it also has safe buildings for shelter. The SOSMP is also strategically located within 5 miles of Interstates 10 and 75 to allow evacuees quick and easy exit from the SOSMP should a storm or flooding threaten. However, the SOSMP is situated on some of the highest land near the Suwannee River and is an inland campground.

SOSMP staff members and community volunteers have become adept at helping people during the stressful times incurred by having to evacuate their homes. During these times, staff is available and on-site 24 hours. SOSMP staff has attended the yearly Governor’s Hurricane Conferences to become more informed and better prepared for the hurricane season and to better provide for guests. Local churches, elected officials and volunteers also lend a helping hand when needed during emergencies. The SOSMP is located just 4.5 miles from Live Oak.

Entertainment this week includes A Tribute to Legends with Ted McMullen Saturday night, Aug. 30 and a fireworks show, Mike Miller Band Sunday night, Aug. 31 and karaoke Monday night, Sept. 1 with Ted McMullen. There is a small fee for entertainment. As always, the SOS Café will be open during entertainment serving meals and beverages at regular prices.

Pets on leash, as well as horses, are welcome. There is a stable fee for horses.

The SOSMP is located 4.5 miles south of I-75 and 4.5 miles north of I-10 on US 129 in Suwannee County, Fla. From I-75 take Exit 451 south, cross the Suwannee River and you’re there. From I-10, take Exit 283 north on US 129 to the SOSMP across from the Florida Agriculture Inspection Station.

For more information, call 386-364-1683 or go to www.musicliveshere.com. We'll do all we can to make this your home away from home during this difficult time.