Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest Picketts Bay Primitive Campsites
00 reviewWarren Bluff and East River Rd., Carrabelle, Florida, 32322, United States
Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest Picketts Bay Primitive Campsites
$9.17 - $12.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $9.17 to $12 per night for primitive camping sites. Payments are required, but enforcement is inconsistent as per user reviews.
About this campground
Deep within Tate's Hell State Forest, Picketts Bay Primitive Campsites beckons adventurers seeking an authentic backcountry experience. These five secluded sites welcome both tent campers and RV travelers ready to disconnect from modern conveniences and reconnect with Florida's wild heart. While you won't find water hookups, electricity, or restrooms here, each campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with sturdy picnic tables, fire rings for evening gatherings, and grills for outdoor cooking under the stars.
The Picketts Bay Primitive Campsites are designed for a rustic and minimalistic camping experience. All sites are primitive and lack modern facilities such as electricity or water.
Historical SignificanceEvery shadow in this forest whispers the legend of Cebe Tate, the man who gave this wilderness its ominous name. Lost for seven days in 1875, Tate emerged from the swamp declaring he had been 'to Hell and back.' His tale lives on in these ancient groves, where dwarf cypress trees stand as living monuments to centuries past. These mystical woods have sheltered generations of wildlife and witnessed the transformation of Florida from untamed frontier to modern state, yet they remain hauntingly unchanged.
Weather and SeasonsFlorida's mercurial weather paints different moods across the seasons at Picketts Bay. Summer arrives with a sultry embrace, bringing humid days and clouds of insects that remind visitors they're deep in living wilderness. Winter offers a gentler touch, with cooler temperatures perfect for hiking and occasional rain showers that awaken the forest's earthy perfume. Spring and fall provide ideal camping weather, with moderate temperatures that make both daytime adventures and nighttime campfires equally enjoyable.
ElevationResting just above sea level in Florida's coastal lowlands, Picketts Bay sits where the land gradually surrenders to the Gulf of Mexico's embrace. This near-sea-level elevation creates the perfect conditions for the wetlands and mysterious swamps that define this enchanting landscape, where water and land dance together in an ever-changing natural ballet.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a primordial world where nature reveals its most intimate secrets. Wet prairies stretch toward distant tree lines while mysterious swamps harbor secrets beneath their dark waters. The true stars of this botanical theater are the ancient dwarf cypress trees, their gnarled forms creating a landscape straight from a fairy tale. These diverse ecosystems support an incredible tapestry of life, from delicate wildflowers to elusive wildlife, offering endless discoveries for those who venture beyond their campsite.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of Florida's Panhandle, Picketts Bay occupies a remarkable corner of Tate's Hell State Forest where water has sculpted the land for millennia. This southeastern wonderland encompasses a rich mosaic of hydric communities—wet prairies that flood with seasonal rains, strand swamps thick with vegetation, bottomland forests where ancient trees sink their roots deep, mysterious baygalls shrouded in perpetual twilight, and floodplain swamps that pulse with the rhythm of nearby waterways. The forest's most captivating residents are the dwarf cypress trees, botanical marvels that have survived more than 150 years while remaining stunted at just 15 feet tall, their diminutive stature a testament to nature's ability to adapt and endure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific mention of accessibility features for people with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are generally small and designed for primitive camping. Some reviews mention specific sites with ample space, such as Site #26, which was noted to have 'plenty of room and shade.'
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies. Some campers appreciated the seclusion of specific sites (e.g., 'super private campsites'), while others found that 'locals use it for fishing' or 'many cars drove back to the site.'
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites along New River and Gully Branch are appreciated for their proximity to water but may have issues with flooding and horseflies. Roads to most sites are rugged and may require 4-wheel drive.
Best CampsitesUser reviews mention Gully Branch as a favored site and Rock Landing Campground for its quiet atmosphere.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limits are not explicitly stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
User reviews and official sources do not specify guest limits per site.
Groups
No specific details are provided about group camping sites.
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, primarily near rivers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, though seasonal flooding and hunting activities might affect accessibility and usability.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through Reserve America. Walk-up availability is generally not recommended due to inconsistencies.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly mentioned; user reviews suggest inconsistency in site enforcement and regulation.
Cancellation PolicyNot explicitly stated in the source materials.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground and surrounding forest offer a diverse range of activities suited for outdoor enthusiasts, including fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. The forest is also part of the Florida Scenic Trail and Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are extensive, and the forest is part of the Florida Scenic Trail. Reviewers described the trails as ranging from 'moderate hiking' to more rugged paths requiring four-wheel drive to access.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, but requires a valid license. Reviewers mentioned catching fish at various locations, and one user noted, 'The fishing was great but the yellow flies were fierce.'Biking
Biking is possible along the dirt roads, though the terrain may vary in difficulty. A reviewer shared, 'Loved biking the dirt roads.'Boating
A concrete boat launch at Cash Creek and various other access points to rivers and streams make it suitable for canoeing, kayaking, and small boat activities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife spotting is a highlight, with mentions of otters, various bird species, and even black bears. One user noted, 'We have seen alligators laid across the entire road along with black bears out in the woods.'Winter Activities
There is no specific mention of winter activities in the campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular due to the extensive river access.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within provided fire rings. Fire safety rules are likely enforced.
- Quiet hours are .
Hazards
General hazardsFlooding during wet seasons, aggressive insects like horseflies and mosquitoes, and wildlife such as alligators and bears.
Active alerts.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 81%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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 (non-emergency assistance between 5:00 pm - 8:00 am); local ranger station in Carrabelle at 850-697-0010.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak seasons are not specified, but hunting activities are common in December.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities appear to be inconsistent. User reviews frequently mention garbage issues, such as 'the garbage had been full our entire stay' or 'trash left at the campsite and toilet paper all over the place.' Camp users are strongly advised to pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresAll campsites are near riverbanks with access to canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
Common complaintsTrash and littering by visitors; lack of enforcement of regulations; noise disturbances from hunters and ATV users; poor road conditions.
HostHosts are available at select areas but have received mixed reviews from visitors, describing them as either helpful or overly confrontational.
Campground Map
Warren Bluff and East River Rd., Carrabelle, Florida, 32322, United States
Driving directions10 New River: From US 98, turn onto River Road and travel about 4.3 mile; turn right onto Burnt Bridge Road and travel about 4 miles; turn left onto East Double Bridge Road. The campsite is about 1.6 mile ahead at the end of the road. 11 Gully Branch: From CR 67, turn onto Gully Branch Road. The campsite is about 5.8 miles ahead on your left before the New River. The campsite is across from the day use pavilion. 46 Sunday Rollaway: From CR 67, turn onto Gully Branch Road and travel about 1.2 mile; turn first left (onto Warren Bluff Road) and travel about 2 miles; turn onto campsite road. The campsite is about 0.45 mile ahead at the end of the road. 47 Oxbow: From CR 67, turn onto Gully Branch Road and travel about 1.2 mile; turn left onto Warren Bluff Road and travel about 4 miles; turn first left (onto Forest Road 124A). The campsite is about 0.8 mile ahead on your left. 48 Warren Bluff: From US 98, turn onto River Road and travel about 4.3 mile; turn right onto Burnt Bridge Road and travel about 0.35 mile; turn right onto Warren Bluff Road and travel about 2.6 miles; turn right (onto Forest Road 315A). The campsite is 0.2 mile ahead at the end of the road.
The campground is accessible via paved and dirt roads. Some roads are not well-maintained and require caution, especially for larger vehicles. Certain sites may require 4-wheel drive to access due to rugged terrain. Seasonal flooding may make some areas inaccessible.Nearby places
Carrabelle (10-12 miles, 20-30 minutes drive)
Eastpoint (~8 miles)
Apalachicola (~30 miles).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Carrabelle (~10-12 miles) or Eastpoint (~8 miles) for groceries, fuel, and camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest Picketts Bay Primitive Campsites has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of the campground present a mixed picture. Campers appreciate the scenic beauty, wildlife, and fishing opportunities, but note significant issues with cleanliness and noise. The lack of regulation and trash management is a recurring concern.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Many campers praised the natural surroundings and seclusion. 'A little piece of paradise,' said one reviewer, while another noted, 'The views all around this place are simply nature's best.' Wildlife...
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Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include noise from nearby hunters and ATVs, party disturbances, trash left behind, and poorly maintained facilities. One user stated, 'It was an all-night party venue... with...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest bringing everything you need, including water and trash bags. As one camper shared, 'Bring your own water. I imagine the mosquitoes could be bad if there was no breeze.' Another...
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Seasonal Insights
Winter and early spring appear to be quieter seasons for camping, with fewer disturbances. Summer reviews often mention mosquitoes and yellow flies as significant nuisances.
Camper Quotes
'Want to get lost? Really lost? Then Tate’s Hell is amazing!' 'The fishing was great, but the yellow flies were fierce.' 'The camp hosts were friendly but had two dogs that roamed free without a...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #26 was noted for its spacious layout and shade but required a rugged vehicle to access. Crooked River #45 was described as quiet but frequented by hunters in December.
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility for people with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
Several reviews mention issues with dogs. For example, 'The camp hosts knew we had dogs but failed to keep theirs on a leash,' causing disruptions for some pet owners.
Last updated August 10, 2025