Cary State Forest Campground
00 review7465 Pavilion Dr, Bryceville, Florida, 32009, United States
Cary State Forest Campground
$30.80 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$32.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The approximate cost for campsites is $30.80 to $32 per night, including taxes and reservation fees. Specific fees may vary depending on amenities provided.
About this campground
Nestled within towering pines, Cary State Forest Campground invites you to disconnect and unwind at one of its seven thoughtfully designed campsites. Each spacious site comes fully equipped with modern amenities including concrete pads, 50 AMP electrical hookups, fresh water access, and dedicated tent areas. Gather around stone fire rings under starlit skies, prepare meals at your personal grill and picnic table, or simply relax on provided benches while soaking in the forest's peaceful ambiance. Known for its exceptional cleanliness and privacy-first layout, this hidden gem offers the perfect balance of comfort and wilderness escape.
The Cary State Forest Campground accommodates RVs, tent camping, and group camping. Sites are spacious and equipped with modern amenities, but there are no glamping or luxury options.
Historical SignificanceCary State Forest serves as a vital sanctuary for Florida's rare and remarkable wildlife, playing a crucial role in protecting endangered and threatened species. This living landscape represents generations of conservation efforts, where visitors can witness firsthand the importance of preserving natural habitats for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Cary State Forest's distinct seasonal personalities throughout the year. Spring awakens the forest with fresh growth, though early season campers should pack insect repellent for occasional bug encounters. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for exploring shaded trails, punctuated by refreshing afternoon thunderstorms that fill the air with the scent of rain-washed pine. As autumn arrives, cooler temperatures and lower humidity create ideal camping conditions, while winter offers crisp, dry weather that transforms the forest into a serene retreat. Trail enthusiasts should note that heavy rains can occasionally create muddy conditions or temporary flooding along pathways.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a pristine pine forest ecosystem where nature's drama unfolds daily. Watch for white-tailed deer grazing at dawn, clever raccoons foraging at dusk, and a symphony of native birds filling the canopy with song. Beyond the campground, discover a mosaic of wetland wonders including mysterious swamps and ancient cypress domes draped in Spanish moss. These diverse habitats create an ever-changing tapestry of natural beauty, from mirror-like waters reflecting towering trees to sun-dappled forest floors carpeted in pine needles.
Geological RegionSpanning an impressive 13,000 acres, Cary State Forest encompasses a remarkable diversity of Florida ecosystems. This vast wilderness preserve weaves together expansive woodlands, pristine swamps, and majestic cypress domes to create a complex habitat supporting an extraordinary array of wildlife and plant species. Home to both common forest dwellers and rare endangered species, this protected landscape offers visitors a glimpse into Florida's wild heart, where ancient ecosystems continue to thrive in their natural state.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground appears to be accessible based on reviews describing the level concrete pads and spacious sites, but no specific mention of ADA-compliance.
Sites SizeSites are described as huge and well-spaced, with measurements for concrete platforms being 24 x 36 feet.
Sites PrivacyUsers consistently mention high levels of privacy, with distances of 60 to 200 feet between sites noted.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 5 and 6 are noted for their distance from the bathhouse (¾ mile walk) but offer the same amenities as other sites.
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Based on reviews and authoritative sources, no official maximum limit for nights was stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
Group campsites are available and suitable for scout troops and large gatherings. Amenities include a fire pit, picnic tables, and grills. The group site is located a moderate walk from the restroom facilities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSeven campsites are spread far apart (approximately 75–100 yards between sites).
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation PlatformsReservations required and can be made online or through onsite 'Iron Ranger' payment system.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are required for all sites, based on user reviews and authoritative descriptions.
Cancellation Policynull
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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Cary State Forest Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, birding, and nature photography. Observing deer and other wildlife is a highlight for many campers. The trails are described as a mix of natural paths and gravel forest roads.
Hiking
Hiking trails vary in difficulty. Trails include under two-mile nature paths with wooden boardwalks and longer gravel forest roads. Some trails may contain unmaintained grass roads.Biking
Biking is mentioned as an enjoyable activity by users. Electric bikes are permitted, and the spacious layout of the campground allows for easy riding.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with deer and bird species frequently spotted. One user noted a herd of eight deer during their stay.Cultural and Educational Programs
The educational pavilion provides opportunities for day-use educational activities, but specific programs are not detailed.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings with benches are available at all sites. Firewood policies are not mentioned; campers should follow Florida state guidelines.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include mosquitoes, midges, and occasional flooding on trails. Wildlife like alligators and wasp nests may also pose risks.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Thunderstorm
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 78%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Thunderstorm
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
Ranger station onsite (Contact: 904-266-8398)
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingEach campsite is equipped with its own trash can, and garbage pickup is provided.
Proximity to water featuresNo onsite water features; nearby attractions include Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and Little Talbot Island State Park.
Common complaintsHighway noise and proximity to train tracks were noted as detracting from the experience by some users.
HostCampground host available onsite.
Campground Map
7465 Pavilion Dr, Bryceville, Florida, 32009, United States
Driving directionsFrom I-10 take exit 343 toward Baldwin. Turn left onto US 301 N for 1.1 mi. Turn right onto W Beaver St/Lake City Rd for 0.7 mi. Turn Left onto US 301 N 7.7 mi. Turn right onto Pavilion Rd for 0.3 miles to campground entrance. From I-95 take exit 373 toward Callahan. Head west on FL-200/Florida A1A for 12 mi. Continue straight onto US 301 S for 11 miles. Turn left onto Pavilion Rd for 0.3 mi to Campground entrance.
Good accessibility from major roads, including I-10 and I-95. The roads are paved and the directions are clear. There are no mentions of seasonal closures or challenging terrain in provided sources.Nearby places
Bryceville (5 minutes), Jacksonville, FL (approximately 25 miles), Fernandina Beach, FL (approximately 40 miles), Folkston, GA (approximately 50 miles)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Cary State Forest Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the campground's spacious layout, privacy, cleanliness, and well-kept facilities. It is praised for its peaceful environment and suitability for a quiet retreat. Some criticisms include mosquito prevalence and proximity to highway and train noise.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Large, private campsites; clean and well-maintained restrooms and showers; friendly and helpful park staff; convenient amenities such as trash pickup at sites; scenic beauty of the forest.
Common Concerns
Mosquitoes and midges at certain times; noise from nearby highway and trains; limited hiking trails, which are described as basic gravel roads; no sewer hookups.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray and prepare for mosquitoes during moist seasons. Choose sites further from the highway for reduced noise. Utilize the clean bathhouse with hot water showers. Consider visiting during...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer visits see higher mosquito activity and humid conditions. Spring and fall are noted for pleasant weather and minimal bugs. Winter brings cooler, quieter camping conditions but may have...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Wow! A hidden gem in the Cary National Forest in Bryceville, FL.' - Jodi Dube
2. 'Showers are one of the best as far as pressure, volume, and temperature.' - Rodney Ferree
3. 'Sites are huge and...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 5 and 6 are noted to be a long walk (¾ mile) from the bathhouse. Sites with concrete pads provide better leveling for RVs.
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews from users with disabilities, but the concrete pads and level sites suggest accessibility.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and campers note the ease of bringing dogs along for hiking and trail exploration.
Last updated August 10, 2025