Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest New River Primitive Campsites
00 reviewGully Branch Rd., New River Road, Carrabelle, Florida, 32322, United States
Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest New River Primitive Campsites
$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
The cost per night ranges from $9.17 to $12, depending on the site and any premium features. Reservations must be made online for specific sites.
About this campground
Discover your own private wilderness along 11 miles of the winding New River, where primitive campsites beckon adventurers seeking an authentic Florida backcountry experience. Cast your line into pristine waters, paddle through untouched waterways, or lose yourself on forest trails where birdsong fills the air and your camera captures moments of raw natural beauty. Here, without the hum of electricity or modern conveniences, you'll reconnect with nature under star-filled skies and wake to misty mornings over the river.
Campsites are strictly primitive, catering to tent and RV campers. No modern amenities or glamping options are available.
Historical SignificanceStand among living legends in this remarkable ecosystem, where ancient dwarf cypress trees defy expectations—150 years of growth compressed into a mere 15 feet of height, creating a mystical forest unlike anywhere else on Earth. As part of the prestigious Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, these woods have long attracted naturalists and photographers drawn to witness rare species and capture the ethereal beauty of this unique habitat.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Florida's dynamic seasons in this riverside paradise, where sultry summer days invite refreshing paddles and cool winter mornings reveal crisp forest views. The humid warmth of summer gives way to pleasant winter temperatures perfect for hiking and wildlife watching. Be mindful that seasonal rains can transform the landscape, occasionally limiting access to certain sites as the New River swells with nature's abundance.
ElevationThe gentle, low-lying terrain follows the natural contours of the New River corridor, creating an intimate connection between camper and waterway throughout this expansive wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of ecosystems where towering pine forests give way to mysterious dwarf cypress groves, and the New River winds like a liquid ribbon through the landscape. This wilderness sanctuary offers an ever-changing panorama—from sun-dappled forest floors to mirror-like water reflecting ancient trees, creating a photographer's paradise and a naturalist's dream where solitude and wild beauty reign supreme.
Geological RegionExplore one of Florida's last great wildernesses across 202,437 acres of Tate's Hell State Forest, where nature has painted a masterpiece of biodiversity. Wander through wet prairies that bloom with wildflowers, traverse mysterious strand swamps draped in Spanish moss, and discover bottomland forests where ancient trees stand sentinel. This mosaic of hydric communities—including enchanting baygalls and vital floodplain swamps—creates a living sanctuary for an extraordinary array of wildlife, from elusive black bears to colorful wading birds, making every visit a new adventure in discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no detailed information available regarding accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are generally sized for small groups, with a maximum of 8 people permitted per site.
Sites PrivacyReviews suggest that privacy varies by site, with some being secluded and others frequented by locals or day-use visitors.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites along New River and Rock Landing Campground are recommended for quiet and serene camping. 4-wheel drives are advised for accessing rugged areas.
Best CampsitesGully Branch is praised for its seclusion, but access is restricted by fencing. Parker Place is popular but prone to local occupation.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive nights allowed are not clearly stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests allowed per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are scattered along an 11-mile stretch and mostly located near the riverbanks.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round availability with seasonal considerations for accessibility.
Reservation PlatformsOnline reservation platforms such as Reserve America.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are reservable online, but some reviews mention others occupying reserved sites without enforcement.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not specified.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and photography. Many campsites provide direct access to the river, making them ideal for water-based recreation.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible within the state forest. A reviewer noted the beauty of the trails at Cash Creek and their uniqueness.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity with access to the New River and other waterways. Specific mentions include otters and various bird species observed during fishing expeditions.Biking
Dirt roads within the forest are suitable for biking, with one reviewer noting: 'Loved biking the dirt roads.'Boating
Canoe and boat launches are available at certain campsites like New River #8 and Pope Place, catering to boating enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with mentions of otters, birds, possums, and even black bears by campers.Winter Activities
Winter camping and hunting opportunities are available, but there are no specific winter recreation activities mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing and kayaking are widely supported.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed; fire rings and grills provided at each site.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as rattlesnakes, ticks, and yellow flies can be encountered. Seasonal flooding and rugged roads pose risks.
Active alertsAlerts regarding unmaintained roads and flood-prone areas.
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 (850-681-5950) available for non-emergency assistance between 5:00 PM - 8:00 AM.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly stated.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are inconsistent. Some users reported overflowing garbage bins and litter along the campsite roads.
Proximity to water featuresMost sites are near the New River; some have canoe or boat launches.
Common complaintsTrash left by previous campers, unregulated site usage, noise from hunters and vehicles, and lack of proper facilities.
HostCampground hosts are friendly but have been criticized for confrontational attitudes and unleashed dogs.
Campground Map
Gully Branch Rd., New River Road, Carrabelle, Florida, 32322, United States
Driving directions2 North Road: From CR 67, turn onto Gully Branch Road and travel about 12.3 miles; turn right onto North Road. The campsite is about 4 miles ahead at the end of the road. 3 New River: From CR 67, turn onto Gully Branch Road and travel about 5.8 miles; turn right onto Billy's Road after crossing the New River. The campsite is about 2 miles ahead on your right. 4 Gully Branch: From CR 67, turn onto Gully Branch Road and travel about 5.8 miles. The campsite is on your right after crossing the New River. 5 Dew Drop: From CR 67, turn onto Gully Branch Road and travel about 5.8 miles; turn left onto W. River Road after crossing the New River. 5 Dew Drop campsite access road is about 2 miles ahead on your left. 7 Borrow Pit: From US 98, turn onto River Road and travel about 4.75 miles; turn right onto W. River Road after crossing the New River and travel about 2.5 miles; turn left onto Forest Road 90. The campsite is about 0.45 mile ahead on your right. 6 Borrow Pit, 8 Parker Place, 9 Pope Place: From US 98, turn onto River Road and travel about 4.75 miles; turn right onto W. River Road after crossing the New River. 9 Pope Place is 1.2 miles ahead on your right; 8 Parker Place is about 2.3 miles ahead on your right; 6 Borrow Pit is about 2.6 miles on your left.
Access involves dirt roads and gravel paths. Roads are unmaintained in some areas, requiring caution for vehicles. The campground is located deep within Tate’s Hell State Forest, approximately 14 to 22 miles from Sumatra, FL. Seasonal flooding and rugged terrain can make access challenging.Nearby places
Sumatra (14-22 miles, 30-60 minutes by car), Carrabelle (exact distance not provided)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are not specified, but Sumatra or Carrabelle may have basic amenities.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest New River Primitive Campsites has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reveal a mixed experience, with many praising the scenic beauty and peacefulness of the area while also criticizing the lack of regulation, litter issues, and occasional disruptions from local activity and wildlife.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Many reviewers appreciated the primitive and secluded nature of the campsites, access to fishing and boating activities, and the serene environment. One camper noted it as 'a little piece of...
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Common Concerns
Common issues included litter, lack of enforcement leading to noise and unauthorized use of reserved sites, poorly maintained roads, and limited facilities. 'Park is filled with trash,' complained...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing sufficient water and supplies, as no resources are available on-site. They also suggest advanced preparation for poor road conditions and lack of cell service.
Seasonal Insights
Winter months seem popular for hunting, while warmer months see mentions of mosquitoes and yellow flies. Spring and fall provide the most balanced conditions for camping.
Camper Quotes
- 'It was the most unnerving woods I've ever stealth camped in.' - Barker Bike Pirate
- 'A little piece of paradise!!! Untouched by man for the most part.' - Ernie Fernandez
- 'Want to get lost?...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites like Rock Landing and Parker Place are mentioned, with Rock Landing noted for its clean vault toilets and Parker Place for its popularity.
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but one reviewer noted issues with unleashed dogs from a camp host disrupting their pets.
Last updated August 10, 2025