Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest Rock Landing Campground
00 review5081 Rock Landing Road, Carrabelle, Florida, 32322, United States
Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest Rock Landing Campground
$9.17 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range between $9.17 and $12 per campsite per night for primitive camping. Fishing licenses are required if fishing.
About this campground
Venture deep into Florida's untamed wilderness at Rock Landing Campground, where the mysterious waters of Crooked River wind through ancient cypress swamps. This primitive camping retreat in Tate's Hell State Forest beckons adventurers seeking authentic backcountry experiences. Cast your line into tannin-stained waters, launch your kayak at dawn when mist clings to the river, or simply lose yourself in the primal beauty of one of Florida's last wild frontiers. While amenities remain purposefully simple—vault toilets, a covered pavilion, and river access via boat ramp—the real luxury here is unplugging from civilization and reconnecting with nature's rhythm.
The campground primarily caters to primitive camping with options for both RVs and tents. There are no electric or water hookups available.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape steeped in folklore where the forest itself tells tales of survival and mystery. Tate's Hell earned its ominous name from the legend of Cebe Tate, a farmer who vanished into these swamps in 1875 while hunting panther. Lost for days in the maze of cypress and water, he emerged near Carrabelle barely alive, uttering 'My name is Cebe Tate, and I just came from Hell' before collapsing. Today, ancient dwarf cypress sentinels—some centuries old despite their diminutive stature—stand as silent witnesses to countless untold stories, their gnarled forms shaped by the harsh conditions that gave this forest its fearsome reputation.
Weather and SeasonsFlorida's subtropical embrace creates a dynamic camping environment throughout the year. Summer brings sultry days where the air hangs thick with humidity and clouds of mosquitoes dance in the evening light—pack your bug spray and embrace the authentic swamp experience. Winter months offer sweet relief with crisp mornings perfect for wildlife watching and comfortable afternoons ideal for paddling. Afternoon thunderstorms punctuate the seasons with dramatic displays, refreshing the landscape and filling the air with the earthy scent of rain-soaked forest floor.
ElevationThis low-lying wilderness sits just above sea level, where subtle changes in elevation create a mosaic of wetlands and slightly higher hammocks. The gentle topography allows water to sheet across the landscape, creating the perfect conditions for the unique hydric communities that define this remarkable ecosystem.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a primordial landscape where nature paints with a palette of emerald greens and amber waters. The campground serves as your gateway to an enchanting maze of hydric communities—from mysterious strand swamps draped in Spanish moss to expansive wet prairies that stretch to the horizon. The star attractions are the ancient dwarf cypress groves, where trees hundreds of years old stand no taller than saplings, their stunted growth a testament to the challenging conditions. River otters play in the dark waters while white-tailed deer pick their way through the understory. Great blue herons stand motionless in the shallows, and the evening air fills with the calls of barred owls and chuck-will's-widows.
Geological RegionRock Landing sits within the vast 202,437-acre wilderness of Tate's Hell State Forest, a critical piece of the ecological puzzle connecting the Apalachicola and Ochlockonee river systems. This sprawling preserve protects one of the largest contiguous tracts of hydric forest in the Southeast, where ancient geological processes created a complex network of sloughs, strands, and cypress domes. The region's unique hydrology supports rare plant communities and serves as a crucial wildlife corridor, making it a living laboratory for those fascinated by Florida's natural heritage. Here, the land tells a story millions of years in the making, where patient waters have carved a sanctuary for some of the state's most remarkable indigenous species.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information available about accessibility features for campers with disabilities at this campground.
Sites SizeSites are designed for RVs or tents, accommodating up to 8 people per site.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. While some reviews describe the campsites as fairly private and 'secluded,' others note that locals frequently visit the area, especially near the boat ramp, which can compromise privacy.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSelect sites farthest from the boat ramp to avoid local traffic. Choose shaded areas for summer camping.
Best CampsitesSite 41 is highlighted as the most preferred due to location and access conditions.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in unspecified.
Check-out
Check-out unspecified.
Stay Limit
Campsites allow stays for a maximum of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are primitive and dispersed. Three sites available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, although hunting seasons could impact usability during fall and winter.
Reservation PlatformsOnline reservations are facilitated via the Reserve America platform.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve availability is allowed; however, this creates issues with enforcement as reported in reviews.
Cancellation PolicyReservation system does not appear to enforce cancellation fees. Any further policy clarifications are missing.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Rock Landing Campground offers a range of recreational activities including fishing, boating, canoeing, hiking, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and picnicking. The location is near the Crooked River and provides convenient access to waterways.
Hiking
Tate's Hell State Forest offers hiking trails that are part of the Florida Scenic Trail. Reviews highlight unique areas such as the dwarf cypress forest, which one visitor described as 'magical.' However, some trails are noted to be unmaintained, and others may be difficult to access due to poor road conditions.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, and a valid fishing license is required. One reviewer mentioned catching a 50-lb alligator snapping turtle and releasing it.Biking
Biking on the dirt roads around the forest is possible, as noted by a reviewer who stated, 'Loved biking the dirt roads.'Boating
The campground features a boat ramp for small boats, making it convenient for canoeing, kayaking, and other small boating activities. The Crooked River is easily accessible.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with reports of otters, alligators, black bears, deer, birds, and possums. The area is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.Winter Activities
Hunting is a notable winter activity in the campground area, as it is a designated hunting ground.Water Sports
Canoeing and kayaking activities are available due to proximity to Crooked River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are No specified quiet hours, but noise complaints from user reviews suggest disturbances overnight.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquito activity is extremely high, and ticks have been noted. Wildlife includes alligators, snakes, and bears, requiring precaution.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Thunderstorm
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Closest hospital is Weems Memorial Hospital in Apalachicola (~30 miles). Emergency services can also be contacted via the Carrabelle Ranger Station at 850-697-0010.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates mentioned; however, increased activity likely during summer and hunting seasons.
Trash and recyclingSome reviews indicate issues with trash and recycling management. For instance, one reviewer mentioned, 'Trash left at the campsite and toilet paper all over the place,' while another commented that 'no one took the garbage, which had been full our entire stay.'
Proximity to water featuresCrooked River is a defining feature with easy access. No direct waterfront camping is available.
Common complaintsTrash left at campsites; lack of maintenance of facilities; noise from neighboring activities like hunting and parties.
HostCamp hosts are available but have mixed reviews on their behavior and responsiveness.
Campground Map
5081 Rock Landing Road, Carrabelle, Florida, 32322, United States
Driving directionsFrom Highway 98 in Carrabelle: Take County Road 67 north for 13 miles to Rock Landing Road. Turn right on Rock Landing Road and continue until it dead ends into the campground.
The road access involves paved sections up to County Road 67, followed by a dirt road leading to the campground. Access may be challenging for larger vehicles.Nearby places
Carrabelle (13 miles, 18-minute drive)
Apalachicola National Forest (approx. 20 miles)
St. George Island (approx. 25 miles)
Apalachicola (approx. 30 miles).
Nearby supplies
Closest groceries and camping supplies can be found in Carrabelle (~13 miles). Fuel is available there as well.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest Rock Landing Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed. While some praise the scenic beauty, wildlife opportunities, and quiet moments, others criticize the lack of regulations, cleanliness issues, and the disruptive behavior of other visitors.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Many users praised the natural beauty of the area, stating it is 'incredibly beautiful and great for boondocking.' Activities such as fishing and wildlife viewing were highly rated, with one reviewer...
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Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include trash left by previous campers, dirty restrooms, lack of enforcement against disruptive visitors, and noise from hunters and locals.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of water due to the lack of potable water, preparing for mosquitoes, and being cautious of the roads, which can be unmaintained and rugged.
Seasonal Insights
The campground is popular during hunting season, with some disruptions noted due to hunters. Summer months bring challenges like mosquitoes. Fall and winter are noted to be quieter periods.
Camper Quotes
1. 'The campsite was peaceful, pretty, and relaxing.' 2. 'Unfortunately, it was an all-night party venue with trucks coming and going all night.' 3. 'The surroundings are magnificent.'
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific recommendations are scarce, but one user pointed out that campsite 40 has water, albeit sulfurous, and poor electrical setup.
Accessibility Features
There are no explicit reviews from users addressing accessibility issues.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but there were complaints about unmanaged dogs, including camp hosts' unleashed dogs causing issues for other campers.
Last updated August 10, 2025