East Camp Zone Little Big Econ State Forest
00 review1350 Snow Hill Road, Geneva, Florida, 32732, United States
East Camp Zone Little Big Econ State Forest
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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
No fee required to camp. However, a State Forest Use Permit is mandatory.
About this campground
Deep within the Little Big Econ State Forest lies the East Camp Zone, a hidden wilderness retreat where adventure begins with a boat journey. This primitive campground beckons those seeking true solitude, offering six secluded camping zones scattered along the pristine Econlockhatchee River. Here, you'll trade modern conveniences for an authentic backcountry experience—no water, electricity, or amenities disturb the natural tranquility. Days unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line into the river's dark waters, paddle silently while scanning for wildlife, or simply lose yourself in the symphony of bird calls echoing through the canopy.
The East Camp Zone is a primitive camping area with no modern facilities. It caters mainly to tent campers and offers no amenities for RVs or glamping.
Historical SignificanceThe Econlockhatchee River carries stories in its very name—'River of Mounds' in the Creek language, honoring the ancient peoples who once called these banks home. This north-flowing tributary of the mighty St. Johns River holds a special distinction as Florida's last truly wild river, its course unchanged by human hands. Here, paddlers follow the same winding path that indigenous peoples, early settlers, and generations of Floridians have traveled, making each journey a connection to the state's untamed past.
Weather and SeasonsThe rhythm of seasons transforms this riverside sanctuary throughout the year. Spring arrives with gentle breezes and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for extended paddling adventures. Summer brings Florida's signature heat and humidity, when the forest hums with life and afternoon thunderstorms provide dramatic skies. As one seasoned visitor wisely notes, 'If you plan on a summer trip, be mindful of the heat.' Fall delivers perhaps the most magical camping conditions—crisp mornings give way to warm afternoons perfect for exploration. Winter offers its own charm with cooler, drier days that reveal wildlife more readily along the riverbanks.
ElevationNull
Natural Features and SceneryFor 17 winding miles, the Econlockhatchee River carves its way through the forest before joining the St. Johns River in a confluence of wild waters. Sandy banks narrow and widen like nature's own amphitheater, framing scenes of extraordinary biodiversity. Morning mists often reveal deer stepping delicately to the water's edge, while ancient alligators bask on sunny logs. Above, bald eagles survey their domain as roseate spoonbills paint the sky pink and wood storks wade through the shallows. The surrounding forest creates a living cathedral of cypress, oak, and pine. As one enchanted visitor perfectly captured it: 'Walk, bike, or kayak; you can't beat that.'
Geological RegionThis remarkable campground rests within the Econlockhatchee River's ancient floodplains, where water has sculpted the landscape for millennia. Designated as an Outstanding Florida Waterway, this second-largest tributary to the St. Johns River showcases Florida's diverse natural communities in stunning succession. From mysterious wetlands where cypress knees emerge like prehistoric monuments, to sun-drenched sandhills dotted with wiregrass, the terrain tells the story of Florida's geological heritage. Pine flatwoods stretch toward the horizon while patches of scrub habitat harbor rare and endemic species, creating a living mosaic of ecosystems that few places in Florida can match.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is only accessible by boat. Trails to campsites are heavily rooted, making access challenging. "Campsites are not accessible by vehicle, it’s a bit of a walk in over heavily rooted trail."
Sites SizeReviewers have described the sites as spacious and well-kept.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels at the sites are not explicitly described in the materials.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNull
Best CampsitesNull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
There is no specific mention of group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSix suggested primitive camp zones along the Econlockhatchee River.
Open and Closed SeasonNull
Reservation PlatformsNull
Walk-in AvailabilityNot reservable; accessible only by boat. State Forest Use Permit is required.
Cancellation PolicyNull
Activities you can enjoy
The East Camp Zone offers a wide array of recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, bird watching, wildlife viewing, wildflower viewing, and nature study. The surrounding state forest also supports hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity in the surrounding Little Big Econ State Forest, described by reviewers as offering "clear paths" and "marked blazes." Trails are reported to be "well-maintained" with "plentiful parking."Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Econlockhatchee River, which borders the camping area. Details about types of fish are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available in the larger state forest area and are noted by reviewers as being enjoyable.Boating
The campground is only accessible by boat, and boating is a main activity here. Reviewers highlight kayaking or canoeing on the Econlockhatchee River as a key attraction.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including deer, turkey, fox squirrels, and alligators. Birdwatching is also popular, with sightings of bald eagles and sandhill cranes reported.Winter Activities
There are no specific winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular activities in the area.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are permitted only on the sand riverbank using dead and down wood from the area. Cutting standing trees is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsNatural hazards include snakes, alligators, and high river levels at certain times of the year. Fire ants and large bugs are prevalent.
Active alertsSeasonal high river levels may restrict access to camp zones.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 86%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
State Forest Headquarters at 1350 Snow Hill Rd Geneva, FL 32732.
Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingNo trash receptacles are available. Campers must pack out all trash, including food waste and pet waste.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to the Econlockhatchee River.
Common complaintsLack of amenities such as drinking water, restrooms, and trash receptacles. "Can't bring booze though, kind of a bummer," mentioned one reviewer.
HostNull
Campground Map
1350 Snow Hill Road, Geneva, Florida, 32732, United States
Driving directionsInterstate 95 to the Little Big Econ State Forest Headquarters: Take exit 223 for FL-46 toward Sanford/Mims for 0.2 miles, then turn onto FL-46 W (signs for Sanford/Orlando Sanford Int'l Airport/Auto Train) and continue for 16.4 miles. Turn left onto CR 426 for 0.8 miles, then turn left onto Snow Hill Rd for 2.0 miles. Turn right at the State Forest Headquarters sign and continue 0.1 miles to end at 1350 Snow Hill Rd Geneva, FL 32732. From I-4 to the Little Big Econ State Forest Headquarters: Take exit 101C for FL-46 toward Mt. Dora/Sanford Historic District for 0.4 miles, then turn onto FL-46 East for 4.1 miles. Turn right onto S. French Avenue/17-92 for 1.7 miles, then turn left onto E 25th Street/FL-46 E for 11.03 miles. Turn slight right on CR 426 for 0.84 miles, then turn left onto Snow Hill Road for 2.33 miles to end at 1350 Snow Hill Road Geneva, FL 32732 on the right.
Accessible via paved roads from Interstate 95 and Interstate 4. Seasonal challenges include high river levels which may limit access to camp zones.Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
East Camp Zone Little Big Econ State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews broadly praise the natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and tranquility of the East Camp Zone and surrounding state forest. However, the lack of amenities, including water and restrooms, is a recurring concern.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects highlighted by users include the "spacious and well-kept" campsites, clear and well-marked trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The surrounding forest is described as...
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Common Concerns
Common issues noted by reviewers include the lack of basic amenities such as drinking water and restrooms, as well as the need to walk on heavily rooted trails to access campsites. Alcohol is...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient water and supplies as none are available on-site. Wear blaze orange during hunting season and be cautious of wildlife, especially alligators and snakes. Plan to use firewood from...
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Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are favored seasons to visit due to milder temperatures and reduced heat. Summer visits require caution due to high heat and humidity.
Camper Quotes
"If you're the quiet type; wildlife will be yours to see." "The Little Big Econ State Forest...has over 5,000 acres of pristine natural Florida wilderness!" "This is the real Florida!" "Bring bug...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite reviews are not provided, but one reviewer noted that the campsites are "spacious and well-kept."
Accessibility Features
Accessibility concerns include the need to walk on heavily rooted trails to reach sites. "Campsites are not accessible by vehicle."
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not recommended at the campground, but if brought, they must be leashed. One reviewer appreciated being able to bring their dog.
Last updated August 10, 2025