The Withlacoochee River originates northwest of Nashville in Berrien County, Georgia, and flows 115 miles southward through the coastal plain before joining the Suwannee River at Suwannee River State Park in Florida. This blackwater river derives its name from Creek words meaning "little big water" or "crooked river," both apt descriptions of its tea-colored waters and meandering course. The river forms significant county boundaries, including portions between Berrien and Cook counties, Lowndes and Brooks counties in Georgia, and Madison and Hamilton counties in Florida.

Paddling opportunities span approximately 28 miles of designated water trail from the Georgia-Florida state line to Suwannee River State Park, with additional access points extending upstream into Georgia. The river supports multiple paddling sections ranging from easy to difficult depending on water levels and shoal conditions. Notable segments include the stretch from Nankin Landing to Madison Highway (SR 31) in Georgia, where paddlers encounter shoals that require attention at moderate water levels and may necessitate portaging during low water. The section from CR 145 Bridge at the state line to CR 150 Bridge offers intermediate paddling, while the downstream stretch from Madison Blue Spring State Park to the Suwannee confluence provides easier conditions suitable for beginners.

Water levels significantly affect paddling difficulty. The USGS gauge at Pinetta, Florida, provides critical information—readings above 54 feet offer optimal conditions, while levels below this threshold expose numerous shoals. The river flows through the Withlacoochee State Forest and conservation lands, providing relatively undeveloped shoreline with occasional sandy beaches for rest stops. Madison Blue Spring State Park serves as a major landmark and access point, featuring a first-magnitude spring that contributes substantial base flow to the lower river. Other springs along the route include McIntyre Spring in Georgia and several unnamed springs in Florida.

Wildlife includes alligators, river otters, various wading birds, and the distinctive Suwannee bass. Bald cypress, tupelo, and river birch line the banks, with yaupon holly and sand pines appearing in certain stretches.

Primary access points include Nankin Landing (Clyattville-Nankin Road), State Line Boat Ramp (Madison Highway/SR 31), Sullivan Launch (CR 150), Madison Blue Spring State Park, and the Madison Boat Ramp. The nearest significant population center is Valdosta in Lowndes County, with smaller communities including Pinetta and Madison in Florida.

The river corridor holds historical significance related to the Second Seminole War and early settlement patterns. During the Civil War, Brooks County served as the "Smokehouse of the Confederacy."

Paddlers should monitor water levels carefully, as the river's character changes dramatically with rainfall. Primitive camping is permitted on conservation lands with appropriate permits from the Suwannee River Water Management District. Multi-day trips are feasible, particularly the 28-mile designated trail section, which typically requires two days with an overnight camp.