River Forest Group Site
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
All new facilities are the highlight of the River Forest Group Site. Facilities include a screened pavilion for food preparation and cooking with your own cook stoves. A new bathhouse has also been built on site.
The camping area is flat for tents with some shade provided by trees. While RVs are welcome, there are no hookups and all vehicles must remain in the designated parking area. Grills and picnic tables are provided.
Notifications and Alerts
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.
Need to Know
- This location is a group-use campground and is operated accordingly by the USDA Forest Service. If using this location for an event, such as a wedding, you will need to bring your own chairs, tables, and other items. Please contact the Ocala National Forest at 352-625-2520, for location specific questions.
- A campground host may be available
- Pets allowed, but not in buildings
Bands and DJs allowed
Vendors (ie. food trucks and merchandise sales) are not allowed.
Any commercial business that operates on federal land is required to have a special use permit. 36 CFR 261.10 (c)
Check in is at 3:00pm and check out is at 11:00am
- Alcohol is permitted
- Bears and raccoons frequent the area; all food must be kept in approved containers
If it is your intent to rent an RV or trailer from a third party entity, please note that the USDA Forest Service does not allow RV or trailer rentals to be pre-placed and/or delivered to the recreation area. The Reservation holder must drive the RV or trailer to the recreation area as it is their sole responsibility and alleviates the FS from any liability.
Any commercial business that operates on federal land is required to have a special use permit. 36 CFR 261.10 (c)
- Click here for more information about Ocala National Forest
- Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.
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.
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.
Contact Information
Default
45700 RIVER FOREST BLVD DELAND FL 32720
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 352-625-2520
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving 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.
