Tate's Hell State Forest Picketts Bay Primitive Campsites

About

Picketts Bay Primitive Campsites offer five dispersed camping spots within the 202,000-acre Tate's Hell State Forest in Franklin County. The sites include New River, Gully Branch (tent-only), Sunday Rollaway, Oxbow, and Warren Bluff. Four sites can accommodate tents or RVs while Gully Branch is designated tent-only. Each campsite provides a picnic table, fire ring, and grill but no potable water, electricity, or restroom facilities. These primitive sites are positioned along the forest's rivers and offer direct water access for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The surrounding forest supports bird watching, wildlife viewing, photography, and hiking. The Big Bend region's dark skies also make this an excellent stargazing destination. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive nights, after which campers must leave for at least three nights before returning. Alcohol is prohibited throughout the state forest. Reservations are made through FloridaStateForests.ReserveAmerica.com with check-in at 3:00 PM and checkout by 1:00 PM.

Directions

From Carrabelle, head north on CR 67. The five campsites are accessed via various forest roads including Gully Branch Road, Warren Bluff Road, and East River Road. Specific directions to each site are provided upon reservation. The drive from Carrabelle is approximately 10-12 miles.