The Suwannee River, with its winding course through the southeastern United States, holds a rich history that encompasses the stories of Indigenous peoples, European explorers, settlers, and the cultural heritage of the region.

Before recorded history, the Suwannee River basin was inhabited by various Indigenous peoples, including the Timucua, Apalachee, and Seminole tribes. These Native American communities thrived along the river's banks, utilizing its waters for transportation, fishing, and agriculture.