Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest

Open — Open year-round with reservations available through ReserveAmerica up to 11 months in advance. Prescribed burns are conducted periodically but do not impact campground use. The campground may close if Putnam County is placed under a Tropical Storm or Hurricane Warning.

About

The Welaka Equestrian Campground sits within the Sandhill Equestrian Trailhead in Welaka State Forest, approximately 25 minutes south of Palatka in Putnam County. This campground is designed primarily for equestrians, offering 48 horse stalls divided between two barns, horse arenas, and access to 18 miles of multi-use trails including the 6-mile Sandhill Horse Trail, part of Florida's Trailtrotter Program. The campground provides 5 RV sites with electric and water hookups and 5 primitive tent sites without hookups, along with modern amenities including restrooms, showers, and a pavilion. The forest encompasses over 2,000 acres of diverse ecosystems, from sandhills and open pine savannas dominated by longleaf pines and wiregrass to river swamps along the eastern bank of the St. Johns River. Mud Spring contributes 13,750 gallons per hour of clear spring water to the area. The east side features Florida's largest population of gopher tortoises. Beyond horseback riding, the forest offers hiking, fishing, hunting, bird watching, and photography opportunities. Welaka State Forest is part of both the Great Florida Birding Trail and the Bartram Trail, which traces William Bartram's historic travels through the region.

Directions

From Palatka: At US 17 and CR 309 intersection in Satsuma, turn south on CR 309 for 6.6 miles to the Welaka State Forest Office on the left. Turn left at the office and follow the service road 0.6 miles to the equestrian area. From Deland: At US 17 and CR 308 intersection in Crescent City, turn west on CR 308 for 8.4 miles to CR 309. Turn north on CR 309 for 3.2 miles to the forest office on the right, then follow service road 0.6 miles.

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