Crooked River Group Camp Withlacoochee State Forest
00 review15003 Broad Street, Brooksville, Florida, 34601-4201, United States
Crooked River Group Camp Withlacoochee State Forest
$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
The fee for Crooked River Group Camp is $30 per night for organized youth groups only. No additional fees were mentioned.
About this campground
Nestled within the sprawling Withlacoochee State Forest, Crooked River Group Camp serves as an exclusive wilderness retreat for organized youth groups seeking authentic outdoor adventures. This tent-only haven sits alongside the pristine waters of Silver Lake, where young explorers can cast fishing lines into mirror-like waters, paddle through morning mists, and forge lasting memories around evening campfires. As part of the renowned Silver Lake Recreation Complex, this special destination transforms group camping into an immersive nature experience.
The Crooked River Group Camp is designed for youth groups with an emphasis on tent camping in a natural setting. It does not feature RV sites, cabins, or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceThe very ground beneath your feet tells ancient stories—'Withlacoochee' whispers its Native American heritage, meaning 'crooked river' in the language of those who first called this land home. Today, this remarkable 165,000-acre forest has earned international acclaim, capturing the #1 spot on World Wildlife Fund's prestigious list of '10 Coolest Places You've Never Seen in North America.' Every trail and waterway connects modern adventurers to centuries of natural and cultural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsSpring and fall paint the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures here, with comfortable temperatures and crystal-clear skies creating ideal camping conditions. Winter months bring refreshingly cool, dry weather with temperatures dancing between 51°F and 67°F—perfect for active days and cozy campfire evenings. Summer transforms the landscape into a lush, humid paradise punctuated by dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that cool the air and nourish the verdant forest. Savvy campers often favor the shoulder seasons when nature puts on its finest display.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain creates a diverse tapestry of ecosystems perfect for exploration and discovery.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering bald cypress trees stand sentinel over winding waterways, their knobby knees creating natural sculptures in the shallows. Open pine sand hills give way to dense, mysterious woodlands where autumn transforms the forest floor into a painter's palette of wildflowers. The legendary Withlacoochee River system weaves through this landscape like nature's highway, offering endless opportunities for discovery. Keep your eyes skyward for the majestic sweep of bald eagle wings, while at ground level, ancient gopher tortoises lumber through their sandy domains and wild turkeys strut through the underbrush.
Geological RegionThis enchanting corner of Florida showcases nature's architectural mastery across the vast Withlacoochee State Forest. Pine sand hills rise and fall like frozen waves, crowned with stately slash pines that whisper in the breeze. The intricate water network—including the namesake Withlacoochee River, Little Withlacoochee River, and Jumper Creek—has carved intimate valleys and created rich wetlands where bald cypress trees thrive. During autumn, the landscape erupts in unexpected color as native wildflowers bloom in abundance. This geological wonderland supports an impressive cast of wildlife, from soaring bald eagles to prehistoric gopher tortoises and strutting wild turkeys, making every visit a potential wildlife documentary.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe bathhouse in the campground is noted to be accessible. Other accessibility features are not detailed.
Sites SizeThe youth group area accommodates up to 25 campers and is specifically designed for tent camping.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy between campsites is not mentioned in the source materials.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSuitable for organized youth groups only. Not recommended for individual campers or families due to group-only restrictions.
Best CampsitesOnly one group campsite available, making it the sole option.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in timing not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out timing not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Youth Group Area will accommodate 25 or less campers. Maximum consecutive nights allowed unknown.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 25 guests allowed per group campsite.
Groups
The group site is exclusive to youth groups (Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, etc.) with a maximum capacity of 25 campers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne group campsite located at the end of the campground road.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round availability, but prescribed burns may occur seasonally; contact WSF Dispatch for details.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made by contacting WSF Dispatch at 352-797-4140.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information provided regarding walk-up or first-come-first-served availability.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific rules provided regarding cancellation policies.
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
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
The Crooked River Group Camp provides numerous recreational opportunities including access to the Withlacoochee State Trail, fishing, boating, and hiking. Wildlife viewing is also emphasized as a key activity, supported by the site's direct connection to the Withlacoochee River system.
Hiking
The campground connects to hiking trails, including the Withlacoochee State Trail. This trail is part of a 70-mile network that traverses diverse natural terrains such as pine sand hills and dense woodlands.Fishing
Fishing is allowed directly from the campground with access to the Withlacoochee River system. Specific details about types of fish or fishing conditions aren't provided.Biking
The campground is near excellent biking paths, including the Withlacoochee State Trail, which is highlighted in the user review: 'Beautiful and well maintained State Forest with an excellent rail-trail.'Boating
Boating activities, including kayaking and canoeing, are supported due to the campground's proximity to the Withlacoochee River system.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a prominent activity, with the forest supporting habitats for species like bald eagles, fox squirrels, and white-tail deer.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities such as snowshoeing or skiing are mentioned as the region is not prone to snow.Water Sports
The site supports water sports such as kayaking and canoeing owing to its location on the Withlacoochee River system.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits and rings with grates are provided. Firewood is available on-site for donations.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours provided.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters, contact with prescribed burns, and seasonal weather conditions such as heavy rain and thunderstorms.
Active alertsContact WSF Dispatch for active alerts regarding prescribed burns or other advisories.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
WSF Dispatch (352-797-4140), Brooksville Regional Hospital (approximately 10 miles), local ranger stations accessible within Withlacoochee State Forest.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates provided.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Silver Lake, part of the Withlacoochee River system, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and paddling.
Common complaintsNo specific complaints were recorded, but general feedback from reviews highlights the campground is 'beautiful and well-maintained.'
HostNo information provided regarding campground hosts.
Campground Map
15003 Broad Street, Brooksville, Florida, 34601-4201, United States
Driving directionsVia I-75: Take Exit 301 - SR-50/US Hwy 98. Head east on SR-50/US Hwy 98. Continue east to Croom-Rital Road located at the 3rd traffic light. Turn left (north) on Croom-Rital Road and continue approximately 3.5 miles to the entrance to Silver Lake Recreation Complex on the right. Follow the road to the right for the campgrounds. Crooked River Youth Group Area is in the last campground at the end of the campground road. Via Suncoast Parkway: Take the Suncoast Parkway (TR-589) north to 46-SR-50 Bear right (east) onto SR-50 and continue through Brooksville following the SR-50 Truck Route. Continue east on SR-50 passing under I-75 to Croom-Rital Road located at the 3rd traffic light east of I-75. Turn left (north) on Croom-Rital Road and continue approximately 3.5 miles to the entrance to Silver Lake Recreation Complex on the right. Follow the road to the right for the campgrounds. Crooked River Youth Group Area is in the last campground on the campground road.
This campground is accessible via paved roads and is a short 5-mile drive from I-75. It is also accessible via Suncoast Parkway (TR-589). Roads are generally well-maintained, but it is recommended to verify road conditions in case of prescribed burns or seasonal changes.Nearby places
Brooksville (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Tampa (50 miles, approximately 1 hour), Orlando (80 miles, approximately 1.5 hours).
Nearby supplies
Firewood is available on-site for donations. Brooksville has grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel stations approximately 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Crooked River Group Camp Withlacoochee State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty and well-maintained facilities of the Withlacoochee State Forest. Commonly appreciated features include the rail-trail, camping accommodations, and the availability of diverse activities. While some visitors focused on the hiking opportunities, others praised the clean and organized setup.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
The campground's proximity to the scenic Withlacoochee State Trail and the diverse recreational options such as biking and wildlife viewing are often highlighted. One user described it as 'beautiful...
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Common Concerns
There were no significant complaints noted in the user reviews provided.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are encouraged to explore the Withlacoochee State Trail and enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of the area.
Seasonal Insights
The area is described as having numerous recreational opportunities that are enjoyable year-round. Specific seasonal variations in user experience were not detailed.
Camper Quotes
- 'Beautiful and well maintained State Forest with an excellent rail-trail, camping facilities and amazing natural beauty and waterways!' - Wind Tree Studios
- 'Got to be one of the best places to go...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews do not provide specific feedback about individual campsites or loops within the campground.
Accessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed in the Youth Group Area, and this restricts pet-related feedback from users.
Last updated August 10, 2025