Ralph E. Simmons State Forest Group Camp

Ralph E. Simmons State Forest (previously known as St. Marys State Forest) was renamed in 1996 as a memorial to a former St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board member who was instrumental in the purchase of the forest. The St. Johns River Water Management District purchased the parcel with funds from the Preservation 2000 and the Save Our Rivers programs. The Florida Forest Service currently manages the property through a management agreement established in 1992 with the St. Johns River Water Management District.

Through multiple-use management, the Florida Forest Service maintains a balance between resource conservation and public use with special emphasis on ecosystem management and ecological restoration of native communities.

No hunting allowed in campgrounds. Please refer to kiosl or MYFWC.com for specific hunting seasons and dates if planning on using any trails.
It is recommended that visitors wear 500 square inches of Blaze Orange while hiking in the area during hunting seasons.
Per Florida Administrative Code, 5I4, Chainsaw use in camping facilities is prohibited. Operation/use of chainsaws in other areas of the forest requires a Fuel Wood Permit.