Established Camping
Ocala National Forest River Forest Group Camp
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
All Campgrounds and Group Campgrounds are Temporarily CLOSED due to Hurricane Milton starting 10/08/2024 - 03/01/2024.Closures may be extended after hurricane assessments are completed.
Due to recent hurricanes and rising water levels the St Johns River has flooded the group campground. It is unsafe for use and will reopen when water levels have receded.
Ocala National Forest River Forest Group Camp is located in a region of Florida characterized by flat terrain with dense forest cover. The area experiences temperature highs around 90°F and lows near 50°F. Nearby attractions include the St. Johns River and Blue Spring State Park, offering opportunities for water activities and wildlife observation.
Description
USDA Forest Service
National Forests in Florida
Overview
River Forest is a shaded group camping facility on the shores of the St. Johns River in Ocala National Forest. Located just across the river from Deland, the site is popular for groups, family reunions and weddings and can accommodate up to 125 guests. 14 day stay limit in a 30 day period in ALL Ocala National Forest Campgrounds
Recreation
This site is a great setting for groups to relax, picnic and enjoy the shade on a warm day. A large field offers ample space for activities such as softball, volleyball and horseshoe tossing. Visitors wanting to venture out of the picnic area can go for a long walk through floodplain forests and pine flatwoods on the St. Francis Trail, or head to the river to canoe, kayak or fish for bass.
Natural Features
The Ocala National Forest spans four counties and 383,000 acres. It is the southernmost and oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River and protects the world's largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest. The campground is shaded with large live oaks with a flat, grassy patch of land that leads to the St. Johns River.
Nearby Attractions
The Ocala National Forest is notable for its extensive off-road trail system catering to off-road vehicle enthusiasts, as well as being a traditional destination for deer hunters from around Central Florida. Numerous lakes, rivers and natural springs surround the area and offer many water activities.
Location
Ocala National Forest River Forest Group Camp is located in Florida
Directions
From Deland, Florida, drive west on State Route 44 to the first intersection after crossing the St. Johns River. Turn right on County Road 42, and the entrance to the campground is on the right.
Address
45700 RIVER FOREST BLVD
Deland, FL 32720
Coordinates
29.0128694 N
81.3907611 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonAvailable
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Toilets
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites