Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest Juniper Creek Primitive Campsites
00 reviewEast River Rd, Bus Stop Camp Rd., Carrabelle, Florida, 32322, United States
Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest Juniper Creek Primitive Campsites
$9.17 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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 from $9.17 to $10 per night, depending on the campsite. Reservations can be made online, and walk-up availability is also possible.
About this campground
Deep in the mysterious wetlands of North Florida, Tate's Hell State Forest beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. Eight secluded primitive campsites scattered throughout this vast preserve welcome both RV travelers and tent campers ready to disconnect from civilization. Days here unfold with paddle strokes through mirror-still waters, patient hours waiting for the perfect wildlife photograph, and evenings filled with the symphony of Florida's wild inhabitants. Whether you're casting a line into tannin-stained waters, following ancient trails on foot, or training binoculars on rare bird species, this untamed landscape promises encounters with Old Florida at its most raw and beautiful.
Tate's Hell State Forest includes various primitive camping options. The sites are suitable for RV or tent camping but lack modern facilities.
Historical SignificanceThe forest's ominous name springs from local folklore that still sends shivers down spines around campfires. As the story goes, farmer Cebe Tate ventured into these swamps in 1875 pursuing a panther that had been killing his livestock. Lost for seven days in the maze of cypress and sawgrass, he finally emerged near Carrabelle, uttering the now-famous words: 'My name is Cebe Tate, and I just came from Hell.' Today, hikers can follow the Florida Scenic Trail through these same haunting landscapes, while birdwatchers explore segments of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, finding beauty where Tate found only torment.
Weather and SeasonsWinter and spring bring blessed relief to Tate's Hell, with crisp, dry days perfect for exploration and comfortable nights around the campfire. As summer arrives, the forest transforms into a sultry greenhouse where afternoon thunderstorms provide dramatic displays and welcome cooling. The warmth and moisture awaken the forest's most notorious residents—clouds of mosquitoes that remind visitors why early settlers found this place so challenging. Wise campers come prepared with bug spray and lightweight, protective clothing to fully enjoy the summer's lush beauty.
ElevationThe forest spreads across a vast coastal plain where subtle changes in elevation create dramatically different ecosystems, from seasonally flooded prairies to slightly higher pine islands that stay dry year-round.
Natural Features and SceneryTate's Hell unfolds as a watery wilderness where land and water blur into one another across wet prairies, mysterious strand swamps, and ancient bottomland forests. Twisted dwarf cypress trees, stunted by centuries of harsh conditions, create an otherworldly landscape that seems frozen in time. The forest's diverse habitats shelter an impressive cast of wildlife—playful river otters slide down muddy banks, wading birds stalk through shallow waters, and lucky observers might glimpse a black bear foraging at dawn or an alligator basking on a sunny riverbank. Every turn of the trail or bend in the river promises new discoveries in this ever-changing mosaic of wetland communities.
Geological RegionSprawling across 202,437 acres of Franklin and Liberty Counties, Tate's Hell State Forest ranks among Florida's largest and most ecologically diverse state forests. This watery labyrinth encompasses a remarkable variety of hydric communities rarely seen in such concentration—from expansive wet prairies where wildflowers bloom in seasonal floods to dense baygalls shrouded in perpetual twilight. The forest's strand swamps and floodplain forests create vital corridors for wildlife, while the peculiar dwarf cypress domes stand as natural monuments to the powerful forces that shape this landscape. Here, water rules supreme, sculpting a wilderness that remains largely unchanged since Cebe Tate's fateful journey.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information for campers with disabilities is not explicitly provided in the source material.
Sites SizeThe campsites can accommodate a maximum of 8 people, as indicated in the official data.
Sites PrivacyCampsite privacy varies significantly. Some reviews describe the sites as 'secluded' and 'far away from everyone,' while others highlight issues with disturbances from other campers.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBoundary Road and New River #5 are recommended for water access. Bus Stop offers seclusion but lacks waterway access.
Best CampsitesNew River sites are popular for their proximity to water and scenic beauty.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is 3 PM
Check-out
Check-out time is 11 AM
Stay Limit
- Stay limits are enforced
- maximum consecutive nights allowed is 14.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site is enforced.
Groups
Group camping details are not provided in the source material.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are dispersed throughout the forest, some along the riverbanks. New River sites are sequentially numbered.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Reserve America or by contacting the park service.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is permitted, but some user reviews suggest issues with non-reserved individuals occupying sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules and penalties are not detailed in the provided information.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The forest offers a range of outdoor activities. Visitors enjoy fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. It is also a popular destination for bird watching and photography.
Hiking
Hiking is a key activity in Tate's Hell State Forest, which is part of the Florida Scenic Trail. Trail maintenance varies, and some roads are described as rugged by campers.Fishing
Fishing is allowed and requires a valid license. The New River and other bodies of water offer ample fishing opportunities, with one reviewer mentioning catching a '50 lb alligator snapping turtle.'Boating
Boating is accessible via the forest's 35 miles of rivers, streams, and creeks. Several launch sites are available, including a concrete boat launch at Cash Creek.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a significant activity, with opportunities to see species like otters, possums, and diverse bird species. One reviewer noted, 'We had the chance to see otter, lots of different species of birds, and obviously a whole lot of possums.'Winter Activities
No winter-specific recreational activities are listed.Water Sports
The forest supports non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings and grills.
- Quiet hours are not specified; however, reviews mention noise disruptions from hunters and ATVs.
Hazards
General hazardsFlooding, rugged roads, ticks, yellow flies, and wildlife such as rattlesnakes and alligators are possible hazards.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Thunderstorm
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 84%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.5 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
Florida Forest Service Dispatch for non-emergency assistance is available between 5 PM and 8 AM at (850) 681-5950. The closest ranger station is in Carrabelle, FL, reachable at (850) 697-0010.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates are mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned. However, user feedback highlights issues with garbage management, with one reviewer stating, 'Rangers did not collect garbage which was full our entire stay.'
Proximity to water featuresSeveral campsites are located near rivers—ideal for fishing and kayaking. New River #5 and Boundary Road have direct water access.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of enforcement of camping reservations, trash on sites, noise from hunters and ATVs, and poor restroom maintenance at certain locations.
HostHosts are friendly but have been criticized for allowing their dogs to roam freely and disrupt other campers.
Campground Map
East River Rd, Bus Stop Camp Rd., Carrabelle, Florida, 32322, United States
Driving directions12 New River: From CR 67, turn onto Gully Branch Road and travel about 5.7 miles; turn right onto E. River Road. 12 New River campsite access road is 0.5 mile ahead on your left; 13 New River campsite access road is 1 mile ahead on your left; 14 New River campsite access road is about 1.8 mile ahead on your left; for 15 New River campsite, travel 2.6 miles on E. River Road and take a left onto Rock Landing Road, the campsite is at the end of the road. 16 and 17 New River campsites: From CR 67, turn onto Rock Landing Road heading west and travel about 7.5 miles; turn right onto E. River Road. 16 New River campsite access road is about 0.7 mile ahead on your left; 17 New River campsite access road is about 1.8 miles ahead on your left. Boundary Road: From CR 67, turn onto Boundary Road. The campsite is about 7.3 miles ahead at the end of the road. Bus Stop: From CR 67, turn onto Rock Landing Road heading west and travel about 1.5 miles; turn left onto School Bus Road. The campsite is 0.7 mile ahead at the end of the road.
The campground is accessible via dirt roads, requiring careful navigation. Some roads are described as rugged and may necessitate high-clearance vehicles or four-wheel drive. Seasonal flooding may obstruct access to certain campsites.Nearby places
Carrabelle, FL (13–21 miles, 25–35-minute drive), Apalachicola, FL (approximately 40 miles), Eastpoint, FL (approximately 30 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be found in Carrabelle, FL, approximately 25 minutes away, including grocery stores, fuel stations, camping gear shops, and restaurants.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest Juniper Creek Primitive Campsites has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Tate's Hell State Forest reveal mixed sentiments. Positive feedback highlights the natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and tranquility. However, complaints frequently mention issues such as trash, lack of enforcement, and noisy disturbances.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Many campers appreciated the natural environment, with one stating, 'The surroundings are magnificent,' and others enjoying activities like fishing and hiking. One reviewer described the forest as...
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Common Concerns
Complaints include noise from ATV and truck activity, lack of trash management, and inadequate regulation. One reviewer noted, 'It was an all-night party venue,' while another mentioned 'campgrounds...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing your own water, being prepared for wildlife encounters, and ensuring your vehicle is suitable for rugged roads. A reviewer advised, 'If you have non-emergency situations,...
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Seasonal Insights
Winter months appear quieter but are also used for hunting, which may disturb non-hunters. Summer reviews mention high insect activity, including mosquitoes and yellow flies.
Camper Quotes
'This is an incredibly beautiful spot if you want to boondock camp.' 'Trash was left at the site and no signs of management.' 'The fishing was great but the yellow flies were fierce.'
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites mentioned include New River #5, described as having water access, and Boundary Road, noted for its access to the river. Cash Creek is frequently highlighted for its well-maintained...
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Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility for individuals with disabilities were noted.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are frequently mentioned, with complaints about unleashed dogs disrupting campers. One reviewer noted, 'Camp hosts had dogs that roamed free without a leash.'
Last updated August 10, 2025