Doe Lake Group Site
Doe Lake is a group campsite with a variety of activities. Centered around a historic lodge with a large group kitchen, it's an ideal place for major outdoor gatherings of up to 250 people. The site is a favorite among equestrian groups, but can also accommodate weddings and other social events.
Please read before making reservations Doe Lake Rules and Regulations Agreement
For reservations or refund request please call (877) 444-6777
This site is centered around a classic 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps dining hall that has been historically restored.
Tent camping is most common at this facility. RVs and horse trailers are allowed, but limited to specific areas that do not offer hookups. Restrooms with flush toilets and showers are provided, as are hitching posts for horses.
Need to Know
Please read Doe Lake Rules and Regulations Agreement before making reservations
- 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.
Due to the historic nature of the facility A/C units are prohibited and please do not use staples, nails, or screws to hang or display anything in the Dining Hall. Doing so is a violation of code 36 CFR 291.9(a) and is a finable Federal offense.
- Pets are not allowed inside buildings
- Bands and DJs are permitted
- Alcohol is permitted
- Off-road vehicles are not permitted
- The reservation holder is responsible for cleaning/straightening up the Doe Lake dining hall, kitchen and bathrooms, main bathhouse, and the grounds prior to departure.
- Sleeping overnight is prohibited in the dining hall.
- Entrance gate is to be closed/locked at all times for safety of visitors, volunteers and facility.
- Check-in time is no earlier than 3:00 p.m.; check out time is no later than 11:00 a.m. We cannot accommodate early arrivals.
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 (K)(L)
Reservations only; no walk-ins.
To schedule a time to visit the Doe Lake Group Site prior to your reservation, contact Lake George Office at (352) 625-2520. An unscheduled visit to Doe Lake Group Site is disruptive to those that have reserved the facility.
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
Located in north central Florida, 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 camping area sits beneath a shady grove of oaks and pines overlooking Doe Lake, and the dining hall sits atop a grassy hill with a view of the water.
Nearby Attractions
The Ocala National Forest is notable for its extensive off-road trail system catering to both ATV enthusiasts and Jeeps, as well as being a traditional destination for deer hunters. These opportunities are available in designated areas throughout the forest.
Recreation
Equestrian camping, canoeing, boating and fishing are some of the popular activities around Doe Lake, and can be enjoyed exclusively by visitors with a group reservation.
Campers can launch a canoe or low-powered boat and drop a line in the middle of Doe Lake for an afternoon of fishing.
Contact Information
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Ocala National Forest 17147 E HWY 40 Silver Springs FL 34488
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 352-625-2520
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
Doe Lake Recreation Area is between Moss Bluff and Umatilla, Florida.
From I-75, west of Ocala, Florida, take the exit for State Route 40 east. Continue 11 miles to Forest Corners, then turn right on County Road 314-A. After about 9 miles, pass through a blinking light at Moss Bluff. Take the next major right at an old country store. Drive for 3.6 miles, passing entrances for Sunnyhill Restoration Area on the left, and turn left on Forest Road 14, also known as Cross Road or Big Scrub Road. Continue nearly a mile and bear right, then turn right into the recreation area.
Physical Address:
Doe Lake Campground
Umatilla, FL 32784
