River Forest Group Site
Open — Open for reservations year-round. Limited to 14 consecutive nights per 30-day period.
Freeze Watch issued December 29 at 11:32AM EST until December 31 at 9:00AM EST by NWS Melbourne FL
* WHAT...Sub-freezing temperatures as low as 30 possible. * WHERE...Inland Volusia, Northern Lake, and Southern Lake. * WHEN...From late Tuesday night through Wednesday morning. * IMPACTS...Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.
Prospect Bluff Historic Site Closure Order
Authorities and Geographic Applicability. Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.53(c), this Forest Order: (1) Closes the Prospect Bluff Historic Site in its entirety for the preservation of objects or areas of historical, archaeological, geological, or paleontological interest.
Alcoholic Beverages
Lists the areas in the Apalachicola and Ocala National Forests where alcohol is not allowed.
About
River Forest Group Site is a shaded group camping facility situated on the shores of the St. Johns River in Ocala National Forest, just across the river from Deland. The campground is designed specifically for large gatherings and can accommodate up to 125 guests, making it a popular destination for family reunions, weddings, and group events. The site features modern facilities including a screened pavilion for food preparation and cooking with your own stoves, and a new bathhouse. The camping area offers flat terrain for tents with shade provided by large live oak trees. While RVs are welcome, there are no hookups available and all vehicles must remain in the designated parking area. Amenities include grills, picnic tables, flush toilets, and drinking water from faucets. A large grassy field provides ample space for group activities such as softball, volleyball, and horseshoe tossing. The campground is located within the Ocala National Forest, which spans 383,000 acres and is the southernmost and oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the St. Francis Trail, which winds through floodplain forests and pine flatwoods, or head to the river for canoeing, kayaking, and bass fishing. The site operates under a 14-day stay limit within any 30-day period, consistent with all Ocala National Forest campgrounds. Bands and DJs are permitted, alcohol is allowed, and pets are welcome but not permitted in buildings. Check-in is at 3:00 PM and check-out is at 11:00 AM.
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.
Nearby Campgrounds
- Blue Spring State Park Campground 5.7mi
- River Road Campground Lake George State Forest 11mi
- Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites 11mi
- Clearwater Lake Rec Area 10mi
- Alexander Springs Recreation Area 12mi
- Lake Dorr Cabin 14mi
- Lake Dorr Campground 15mi
- Buck Lake Group Campground 17mi
- Bennett Field Group Camp 18mi
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | — |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $200 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (352) 625-2520 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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