Pinecrest Group Campground
05 reviews52105 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL, 34141, USA
Pinecrest Group Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates for group sites are $30 per night. Additional fees may apply based on reservation methods (e.g., $8 fee for online bookings).
About this campground
Escape into the untamed wilderness at Pinecrest Group Campground, where four spacious group sites await adventurers seeking an authentic back-to-nature experience. Perfect for family reunions, scout troops, or outdoor clubs, each site comes thoughtfully furnished with sturdy picnic tables and traditional fire rings for evening gatherings under starlit skies. This is primitive camping at its finest – no hookups, no running water, and no permanent facilities – just you, your group, and the raw beauty of the Florida wilderness.
Pinecrest Group Campground is a dedicated primitive group camping facility with no modern amenities or individual accommodations.
Historical SignificanceYour wilderness adventure sits at the crossroads of history and culture, with the legendary Loop Road serving as your gateway to centuries of human stories. Just a short drive away, the Miccosukee Cultural Center offers fascinating insights into the indigenous peoples who have called these wetlands home for generations. The surrounding Big Cypress Preserve stands as a testament to conservation efforts that protect both natural wonders and cultural heritage, making every camping trip here a journey through time as well as nature.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic rhythms of South Florida's subtropical climate, where certain weeks bring wonderfully dry conditions with moderate temperatures perfect for outdoor activities. Summer transforms the landscape into a humid, buzzing ecosystem where nature's smallest residents – from mosquitoes to no-see-ums – remind visitors to pack insect repellent alongside their sense of adventure. The shoulder seasons offer the most comfortable camping conditions for those seeking to avoid both the summer's intensity and winter's occasional cold snaps.
ElevationNestled in the subtle topography of South Florida's unique landscape, where even slight changes in elevation create distinct ecosystems and camping experiences.
Natural Features and SceneryBeneath a canopy of stately pines and spreading oaks along the scenic Loop Road, Pinecrest offers a genuine wilderness immersion. While the tree cover provides dappled shade rather than dense coverage, the open areas allow for excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. This is the domain of Florida's most iconic residents – from the prehistoric grace of alligators gliding through nearby waters to the elusive Florida panther padding silently through the underbrush. Coyotes may serenade your evening campfire, bobcats might leave tracks near your tent, and various snake species remind visitors that this is their home you're visiting. Every rustle in the palmetto and every ripple in the water tells a story of the vibrant ecosystem surrounding your campsite.
Geological RegionSet within the magnificent Big Cypress National Preserve, your campground rests on ancient limestone bedrock covered by centuries of organic matter, creating the unique conditions that support both upland pine and oak communities and the vast wetland ecosystems that define this region. This remarkable preserve serves as a crucial watershed for the Everglades and showcases the delicate balance between water, land, and life that makes South Florida's geology so distinctive and ecologically important.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is primitive and does not include specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe four group campsites are described as "incredibly spacious" by users.
Sites PrivacySites are located in a clearing surrounded by trees, offering minimal privacy. They are suitable for group use but do not feature dense foliage or barriers for seclusion.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGroup campers should bring their own shade structures, cleaning supplies for vault toilets, and insect repellent. Sites are spacious, but minimal shade is provided.
Best CampsitesSite 003 received positive reviews for its cleanliness and stargazing opportunities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in time provided.
Check-out
No specific check-out time provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 10 nights within the designated timeframe.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Large groups permitted. Specific capacity not provided.
Groups
The facility has four group campsites specifically designated for group camping. Each site is spacious, and the location is ideal for gatherings such as birthday events and scout troops.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of four group campsites equipped with picnic tables and fire rings in a clearing along Loop Road.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025. First-come, first-serve sites available starting June 21, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites available starting June 21, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations allowed prior to scheduled arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within 14 days of arrival) forfeit the first night's fee plus $10. No refunds on the date of check-in.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pinecrest Group Campground offers access to paddling, hiking, birding, fishing, and hunting with proper licenses. Campers have also noted opportunities for stargazing due to the area's remote and dark skies.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available along Loop Road. However, they are located miles away from the campground, and visitors may need to drive to access them.Fishing
Fishing is permitted, though no specific details on fish species or fishing quality are provided.Biking
Biking is listed as an activity, with no additional details provided.Wildlife viewing
The campground is situated in a natural area with abundant wildlife. Visitors may encounter species such as coyotes, bobcats, alligators, snakes, and panthers.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified, likely due to the campground's location in Florida.Water Sports
Water sports such as paddling are available, but details on kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not elaborated upon.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted at designated fire rings. Firewood must be obtained locally to avoid spreading pests as per 'Don't Move Firewood' regulations.
- Quiet hours enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Generators must be turned off by 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include coyotes, bobcats, alligators, snakes, and panthers. Minimal cell coverage and biting insects during summer months are additional concerns.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest service station is 15 miles away. Specific emergency services not listed.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned. Campers are advised to pack out what they pack in and store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresNo detailed proximity to lakes or rivers provided.
Common complaintsMultiple users remarked on the lack of shade and bathroom facilities. Mosquitoes were described as 'HORRIBLE' during warmer months. Communication issues regarding access codes were noted.
HostA staff member may contact campers regarding gate information; otherwise, no on-site host mentioned.
Campground Map
52105 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL, 34141, USA
Driving directionsFrom Naples: Follow US HWY 41 east to Loop Road. Take Loop Road south until you see sign for campground. From Miami: Follow US HWY 41 west to Loop Road; take Loop Road south until you see signs for campground.
Accessible via Loop Road, which can be reached from US HWY 41. No specific road conditions mentioned.Nearby places
Naples (approximately 60 miles away), Miami (approximately 70 miles away)
Nearby supplies
Nearest service station is 15 miles away where supplies may be available. Specific grocery or camping supply stores not listed.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Pinecrest Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the spaciousness of the group campsites, the remote and quiet nature of the location, and opportunities to enjoy nature. However, complaints about the vault toilets and minimal shade are common.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
"The four campsites are incredibly spacious!" Users praised the cleanliness of the campground and the remote stargazing opportunities. Other highlights include the quiet atmosphere and wildlife...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The vault toilets are commonly criticized, with one reviewer describing them as "beyond disgusting." Minimal shade and the prevalence of biting insects, particularly mosquitoes, were also noted...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring all necessary supplies, including water, shade structures, and insect repellent. A canopy or makeshift shade structure is recommended. Be prepared for the lack of cellular service and...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Biting insects can be a significant nuisance during the summer months. Visitors are advised to prepare accordingly with appropriate insect repellents.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "The four campsites are incredibly spacious!" 2. "The bathroom situation... there is none. There is a shelter with a hole in the ground to do your business." 3. "The night sky was dark and full of...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews specifically mention campsite 003 as "extremely clean and well maintained" with a helpful staff member providing gate information. Campsite 004 is noted for hosting a memorable birthday event.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not explicitly discussed in user reviews.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025