Princess Place Preserve sits in northeast Florida, spanning 1,500 acres of diverse ecosystems where equestrians can explore interconnected trails through pine forests, hammocks, and marsh areas. The preserve features 14 x 14-foot horse pens at dedicated equestrian campsites, with most pens located in shaded areas to protect horses from Florida's sun. Campsites include picnic tables, fire rings with cooking grates, and trash receptacles, though campers should note only non-potable water is available throughout the property.
What to do
Kayaking at waterfront campsites: At Princess Place Preserve - Moody Campground, waterfront sites allow easy water access. "Beautiful! Lots of palm trees to provide shade. Each site has room to drive in as well as plenty of tent space. 2 tables, a grill, and fire ring," reports one camper about the Moody sites that line the water.
Hiking through diverse habitats: Bayard Conservation Area offers trails through multiple ecosystems. One visitor noted, "It is a track of land that has many hiking trails that traverse through shaded pine forests, hammocks, marsh, and river areas." The trails showcase Florida's natural diversity with opportunities to spot wildlife in their natural habitats.
Fishing in freshwater systems: Multiple creeks and waterways provide fishing opportunities throughout the preserve and nearby areas. A visitor at Princess Place Preserve mentioned the "Pelicer Creek is available for fishing. Bring a kayak." Local waters contain various freshwater species, making this area appealing to anglers seeking quiet fishing spots.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Horse campers appreciate the spaciousness at Cary State Forest Campground, where "sites are spread out and HUGE!! Several trails and plenty of room for kids to play on site!!!" The distance between camping areas provides a sense of seclusion even when other campers are present.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers frequently spot diverse wildlife throughout these natural areas. At Bayard Conservation Area, one camper reported, "On our way to our campsite we were able to spot many animals including: deer, otter, turkey, and wild pigs." These encounters add to the authentic outdoor experience.
Evening trail access: Overnight campers at Princess Place Preserve enjoy exclusive trail access after day visitors leave. As one camper noted, "The park closes to the public at 6 pm, so that means you basically have the next three hours of daylight to roam the entire place by yourself!" This provides a unique opportunity to experience the preserve with minimal disturbance.
What you should know
Varying bathroom facilities: Restroom quality and proximity vary significantly between sites. At Etoniah Creek State Forest, campsites have basic facilities with "a latrine nearby." At Princess Place Preserve, campers note, "There are bathrooms but they're pretty far. The campsites do have nearby porta potties."
Water limitations: Bring sufficient drinking water for your entire stay. "Keep in mind that there is no water available at the camping sites or the entire park for that matter. Potable or non potable so you have to bring in all drinking water and water for washing dishes," advises a Princess Place Preserve visitor.
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Some trails require maintenance after seasonal changes or wildlife activity. A visitor noted, "We would like to see the wild hog population controlled a bit more as we ran into a large group and saw the extensive damage the pigs left behind." Trail conditions should be confirmed with rangers upon arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Choose waterfront sites for easy activities: Water-adjacent sites keep children engaged with accessible shore exploration. A camper at Princess Place Preserve observed the campsites are "huge" and "waterfront campsites well space depart with complete seclusion and peaceful views! Launch your boat from your site, fish and enjoy."
Pack for wildlife education: Bring field guides to identify the diverse species children might encounter. At Bayard Conservation Area, one visitor with children reported spotting "many animals including: deer, otter, turkey, and wild pigs," creating natural learning opportunities.
Consider hiking distances for younger children: Some primitive campsites require significant hiking to reach. A Bayard Conservation Area camper noted, "The campsites are a few miles from the parking area," which might be challenging for families with very young children or those carrying substantial gear.
Tips from RVers
Site utilities vary widely: Electric and water hookups differ between campgrounds and even between sites. At Cary State Forest Campground, a camper noted, "We got the only site that had electric and water on passenger side so we had to run electric under our rig. If we would have been in a class B or C you could go nose first."
Seasonal pest preparation: Equestrian campgrounds near Jacksonville Beach require thorough insect protection. An RVer warned, "TAKE BUG REPELLENT... MOSQUITOES ARE BAD," while another mentioned, "It gets a bit muddy (and mosquito-y) on rainy days." Pack appropriate repellents and screens for your comfort.
Accessibility considerations: Some horse-friendly campsites have challenging access roads. "Note the roads are hard-pack and it is a Florida pine forest so it gets a bit muddy on rainy days. Dump station is not fully paved so it too, gets muddy," advised one RVer about accessing horse camping facilities during wet weather.
