Established Camping
Welaka State Forest
Welaka State Forest, near Welaka, Florida, is a hidden treasure for those seeking a peaceful camping experience surrounded by nature. This campground is perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle, offering a serene atmosphere with ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
The campground is particularly well-suited for equestrian campers, featuring two horse-ready stables and nearly 20 miles of trails, including the scenic Sandhill Horse Trail. Visitors have praised the clean facilities, including new concrete RV pads with electric and water hookups, making it easy to settle in and enjoy your stay. As one camper noted, “The location itself was very quiet and peaceful with good trails.”
For those who prefer to explore on foot, there are hiking trails integrated into the Florida Forest Service’s Trailwalker Hiking Program, providing a chance to immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings. If you’re in the mood for a little adventure, the nearby St. Johns River offers opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, though be prepared for some challenging navigation through the lush cypress and pine trees.
While the campground is remote, it’s just a short drive from local eateries, so you can grab a bite if you need a break from cooking. With its combination of tranquility and outdoor activities, Welaka State Forest is a fantastic spot for a camping getaway.
Description
State Park
Special Notice Effective September 13, 2022, the following roads and recreational facilities are closed due to excessive rainfall and unsafe ground conditions:
• Mud Spring • Mud Spring Trail • Fire Tower Recreation Area • Education Trail • Indian Pond Road • John’s Landing Campground • Orange Point Campground
Forest staff will continue to monitor the situation regularly and reopen the roads and facilities once it is safe to do so. Please avoid these areas until the closure is lifted.
Welaka State Forest is located along the east bank of the historic St. Johns River. The Florida Forest Service maintains the integrity of the forest's natural systems while allowing limited outdoor recreation use and environmental education. In 1935, under the Federal Resettlement Administration, the United States government started the Welaka Forestry and Wildlife Conservation Project on a state of Florida fish hatchery site. The Welaka property was later transferred to the University of Florida as the “University of Florida Conservation Reserve, Welaka” for the study of forestry and wildlife. In 1992 the lease was transferred from the University of Florida to the Florida Forest Service to manage as a state forest.
Reservation Info
All camp sites, dorm rentals, and horse stall reservations can be placed through Reserve America. For more information, contact forest staff at (386) 292-2478. Please plan ahead; the office is not staffed on nights and weekends.
All horses must have proof of current negative Coggins test results when on state lands. Leashed pets are allowed on the forest but not in any buildings, dorms or offices.
In keeping with its mission to protect and manage Florida's forest resources, the Florida Forest Service has developed rules that apply to all state forest visitors
Location
Welaka State Forest is located in Florida
Directions
Welaka State Forest is located in northeastern Florida, approximately 17 miles south of Palatka, off of U.S. Highway 17. The forest headquarters and training facilities are on the east side of County Road 309, about 1 mile south of the town of Welaka. The Mud Spring Trailhead is located just across the highway, and the equestrian facilities are located about ½ mile east of the forest headquarters. The John’s Landing Trail is located another mile south on the west side of County Road 309 at the firetower site.
Coordinates
29.45158663 N
81.67429618 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobileGood
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites