Tidewater Campground Goethe State Forest
00 review9110 SE CR 337, Dunnellon, Florida, 34431, United States
Tidewater Campground Goethe State Forest
$10.00 - $30.00 / 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 between $10 and $30 per night, depending on site type. Payments are made via a self-registration system using tickets and envelopes.
About this campground
Deep within the heart of Goethe State Forest lies Tidewater Campground, a hidden gem for those seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This primitive campground invites adventurers to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in Florida's untamed beauty. While you won't find electrical hookups or running water at your campsite, you'll discover something far more valuable: pristine nature at your doorstep. The campground offers essential amenities including restrooms and a shaded pavilion for gatherings. Days here unfold with endless possibilities—traverse winding hiking trails, saddle up for horseback adventures through ancient forests, or settle in with binoculars to spot rare birds. Photography enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the abundant wildlife, while hunters can pursue game during designated seasons. For those who prefer quieter pursuits, the pavilion provides the perfect spot for leisurely picnics surrounded by the symphony of the forest.
The Tidewater Campground offers primitive camping options without electric or water hookups. It aims to provide a natural and basic camping experience.
Historical SignificanceTidewater Campground serves as a gateway to one of Florida's most ecologically important landscapes. As part of the renowned Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, this site plays a crucial role in protecting habitats for species teetering on the edge of extinction. Conservation efforts here have created a living museum where visitors can witness Florida's natural heritage firsthand. The surrounding Goethe State Forest stands as a testament to successful environmental stewardship, offering campers the rare opportunity to experience ecosystems that have remained largely unchanged for centuries, while contributing to the preservation of Florida's irreplaceable wildlife legacy.
Weather and SeasonsTidewater Campground enjoys Florida's signature sunshine year-round, with temperatures that dance between a comfortable 65°F and a warm 85°F. Summer months bring the full force of subtropical charm—expect balmy days where the air hangs thick with humidity, perfect for early morning adventures before the afternoon heat settles in. As autumn arrives, the oppressive summer mugginess gives way to increasingly pleasant conditions. Winter transforms the campground into an outdoor paradise, with crisp, comfortable days that beckon campers to explore every trail and hidden corner of the forest without breaking a sweat.
ElevationThe campground rests on Florida's characteristic gentle terrain, where subtle changes in elevation create diverse microhabitats throughout the surrounding forest.
Natural Features and SceneryTidewater Campground is embraced by the magnificent tapestry of Goethe State Forest, where ancient longleaf pines stretch skyward like nature's cathedral spires. Venture beyond your campsite to discover a mosaic of ecosystems—from mysterious swamps draped in Spanish moss to rare hydric hammocks harboring botanical treasures. Lucky visitors might glimpse delicate wild orchids blooming in dappled sunlight or hear the distinctive drumming of the endangered red cockaded woodpecker. The forest serves as a sanctuary for Florida's most iconic wildlife, including the majestic Florida black bear padding silently through the understory. Each sunrise brings new wonders as mist rises from the wetlands and the forest awakens with a chorus of songbirds, creating an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.
Geological RegionTidewater Campground sits within the vast 53,000-acre expanse of Goethe State Forest, a remarkable geological tapestry woven from ancient wetlands, upland forests, and intricate drainage systems. This landscape harbors one of Florida's most exceptional hydric hammock systems—a rare forest type that thrives in the delicate balance between wet and dry conditions. Towering old-growth longleaf pines, some centuries old, stand as living monuments to Florida's prehistoric past. The varied terrain creates perfect niches for an impressive array of endangered species, from the patient gopher tortoise excavating burrows in sandy soils to bald eagles soaring above the canopy. The forest's complex hydrology, with its network of swamps and seasonal drains, has sculpted a wilderness that remains one of the state's last strongholds for species like the elusive Florida black bear and the industrious red cockaded woodpecker.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information on accessibility features for campers with disabilities is provided.
Sites SizeNo information is provided on the size of the campsites.
Sites PrivacyNo specific information is provided on the level of privacy of the campsites.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo site-specific recommendations provided.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are identified as 'best.'
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No formal check-in time specified.
Check-out
No formal check-out time specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum recommended stay unspecified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum limit per site unspecified.
Groups
Details about group camping sites are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout is adjacent to Tidewater Trailhead within Goethe State Forest.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round. Seasonal considerations include hunting seasons during which campers must wear day-glo orange.
Reservation PlatformsNo online or third-party reservation platforms are used; reservations are on a self-registration basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites available via self-registration system; no advanced reservations accepted.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not specified.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
This campground offers a range of outdoor activities, emphasizing hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. It is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
Hiking
"Recreational activities featured here are: hiking, horseback riding, hunting, picnicking, bird watching, wildlife viewing and photography." The area includes trails for moderate hiking.Biking
Mountain and trail biking are listed as available activities within the Goethe State Forest.Wildlife viewing
The forest provides opportunities to see species such as the endangered red cockaded woodpecker, Florida black bear, and gopher tortoise, among others. "The forest also has an exceptional concentration of orchids."Winter Activities
No specific information is provided about winter recreation options.Water Sports
No specific information is provided about non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed; fire rings are provided.
- Quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include snakes, alligators, Florida black bears, and raccoons. "Be aware of snakes and alligators which frequent the forest. Bear- and raccoon-proof all food and garbage."
Active alertsFrequent prescribed burns and logging operations are active in the area.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 91%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
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: (352) 566-5225. Nearest hospitals and police stations are unspecified.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates not explicitly stated, but hunting seasons are implied as busy periods.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresWater features include nearby attractions like Rainbow Springs State Park and Crystal River State Park.
Common complaintsUsers note lack of potable water and complaints may arise regarding frequent prescribed burns or logging activities.
HostInformation about hosts or rangers is unspecified.
Campground Map
9110 SE CR 337, Dunnellon, Florida, 34431, United States
Driving directionsFrom US 19 / US 98: Head east onto CR 336. Continue on CR 336 for approximately 5 miles. Turn left onto CR 337. Turn right onto Saddle Pen Road and continue for 0.5 miles. From Bronson (Alt SR 27): Head south on CR 337. Turn left onto the second Saddle Pen Road entrance. Continue for 0.5 miles. From I-75 (Ocala): Head west on FL40, then turn right on Highway 328 W. Next, turn right on US 41 N, then left onto NW 27th Street (CR 545). Turn left onto FL 121 S, then left again on CR 337. Continue on CR 337 for 6.2 miles, then turn left onto the second Saddle Pen Road entrance. Continue for 0.5 miles.
The campground is accessible via paved and numbered roads. "Travel only on named or numbered roads." However, caution is advised due to frequent prescribed burns and logging operations. Seasonal road conditions may vary.Nearby places
Inglis, Florida (15 minutes northeast)
Bronson, Florida (distance and time not specified)
Ocala, Florida (distance and time not specified)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are not explicitly described, but nearby attractions include Rainbow Springs State Park, Crystal River State Park, and Three Sisters Springs offering some amenities.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Tidewater Campground Goethe State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is appreciated for its quiet and secluded atmosphere. "Will prob go back as it is so quiet and only say 2 other campers," notes a past visitor.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Quiet and peaceful environment; low number of other campers. "Will prob go back as it is so quiet."
Common Concerns
No potable water available. Bring your own drinking water. No showers or electric hookups.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug repellant and day-glo orange clothing during hunting seasons. Be cautious of wildlife, including snakes and alligators. Ensure food and garbage are bear-proof.
Seasonal Insights
No specific seasonal trends are noted in the reviews. However, frequent prescribed burns and logging operations are mentioned as a potential impact.
Camper Quotes
"Will prob go back as it is so quiet and only say 2 other campers."
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite numbers or areas are reviewed.
Accessibility Features
There are no reviews addressing accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
No reviews specific to pet policies or pet-friendly features are mentioned.
Last updated August 10, 2025