Group Camp 1
00 review3472 Clint Dr., Hilliard, Florida, 32046, United States
Group Camp 1
$30.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $30 for primitive sites and $40 for group sites. Additional permits may be required during hunting seasons.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed wilderness of Group Camp 1, nestled within the sprawling Ralph E. Simmons Memorial State Forest. This primitive camping haven beckons adventurers seeking an authentic back-to-nature experience along the meandering St. Marys River. Whether you're casting a line into the dark, tannin-stained waters, paddling through ancient cypress corridors, or simply gathering around the campfire under a canopy of stars, this rustic retreat offers the perfect basecamp for exploring one of Florida's most pristine waterways.
Group Camp 1 is a primitive camping area designed for organized youth groups. It can accommodate two groups of up to 25 people each. The site is entirely primitive, with minimal facilities and no water, sewer, or electricity hookups.
Historical SignificanceThis treasured landscape carries the legacy of Ralph E. Simmons, whose tireless dedication to conservation helped preserve these wild spaces for future generations. In 1996, the forest was renamed in his honor, recognizing his vision of balancing human needs with nature's preservation. Today, the Florida Forest Service continues his mission through thoughtful multiple-use management, ensuring that visitors can experience the wilderness while protecting the delicate ecosystems that make this place so special.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the rhythm of Florida's seasons in this riverside sanctuary. The cooler months bring crisp mornings and comfortable days with dry, pleasant conditions that make exploring the forest trails and waterways pure joy. As summer arrives, the forest transforms into a lush, humid wonderland where morning mists rise from the river and afternoon thunderstorms provide nature's own dramatic soundtrack. While the summer heat can be intense, early morning paddles and evening wildlife watching offer magical moments when the forest comes alive.
ElevationThe gentle topography of this riverside campground creates an intimate connection with the surrounding wetlands and waterways, where subtle changes in elevation reveal diverse natural communities and hidden ecological treasures.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient cypress sentinels rise from mirror-black waters, their knees creating natural sculptures in the shallows. The campground serves as your gateway to a mosaic of wild Florida habitats - from mysterious ponds and primeval swamps to the life-giving St. Marys River itself. Keep your eyes peeled for the forest's secretive residents: sleek otters playing in the river currents, wild turkeys strutting through the underbrush, elusive bobcats padding through dawn shadows, and prehistoric gopher tortoises ambling across sandy patches. Every sunrise brings new wildlife encounters in this living wilderness.
Geological RegionDiscover the remarkable diversity of Ralph E. Simmons Memorial State Forest, where the St. Marys River has carved a stunning natural corridor through North Florida's unique geology. The landscape unfolds like chapters in an ecological storybook - from fire-maintained longleaf pine savannas dotted with wiregrass to mysterious seepage slopes where rare plants thrive. Explore low pinelands that flood seasonally, creating ephemeral wetlands, wander through herb bogs bursting with carnivorous plants and orchids, and marvel at the hidden ravines that shelter cool microclimates. This geological tapestry creates one of Florida's most biodiverse camping destinations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features or accommodations for individuals with disabilities are mentioned.
Sites SizeThe campsite is described as accommodating two groups of up to 25 individuals, but the exact dimensions of the sites are not provided.
Sites PrivacyNo information is available about the level of privacy at the campsites.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo specific recommendations provided; primitive camping sites accessible from river only.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites highlighted as best.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in timing not specified.
Check-out
Check-out timing not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit not mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guests per site not specified.
Groups
The site is designated for organized youth groups and can accommodate two groups of up to 25 individuals each. The area is primitive and lacks modern amenities.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground layout details not provided.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Camping reserved for hunters during hunting seasons. Specific dates not provided.
Reservation PlatformsReservations managed via State Forest Use Authorization obtained from the Florida Forest Service at the Hilliard Work Center.
Walk-in AvailabilityTwo primitive campsites available on a first-come, first-serve basis; river access required for these sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not detailed in the source.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The campground and surrounding Ralph E. Simmons State Forest offer a variety of recreational opportunities. Visitors can engage in hiking, horseback riding, and off-road bicycling on designated trails. The St. Marys River provides excellent opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The forest's diverse ecosystems make it ideal for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of fox, wild turkey, bobcat, gopher tortoise, and otter. Seasonal hunting is allowed with permits, but regulations restrict certain recreational activities during hunting seasons.
Hiking
Hiking is supported on established trails and roads throughout the state forest. However, visitors should wear 500 square inches of Blaze Orange during hunting seasons.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the St. Marys River and its associated oxbow lakes. The area supports a variety of freshwater fish species.Biking
Off-road bicycling is available on designated trails within the forest.Boating
Visitors can engage in canoeing and kayaking on the St. Marys River, which serves as the forest's primary water source.Wildlife viewing
The forest offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Commonly seen species include fox, wild turkey, bobcat, gopher tortoise, and otter.Winter Activities
No specific winter recreation activities such as snowshoeing or ice fishing are mentioned, likely due to the region's mild climate.Water Sports
Canoeing and kayaking are the primary water sports available, taking place on the St. Marys River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings available at primitive camping sites.
- Quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters and hunting activity during seasons. Wearing Blaze Orange during hunting seasons is advised.
Active alertsCamping reserved for hunters with permits during hunting seasons.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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Emergency Services
Ranger Station contact number provided: 9048454933. Closest hospital or emergency services information not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates not specified.
Trash and recyclingNo information is provided regarding trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the St. Marys River with access to fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
Common complaintsNo specific complaints are mentioned in the source materials.
HostNo information on campground hosts.
Campground Map
3472 Clint Dr., Hilliard, Florida, 32046, United States
Driving directionsContact the office for directions and rules at (904) 845-4933.
Accessibility details are limited. Visitors are encouraged to contact the office directly for precise road conditions.Nearby supplies
Closest locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are not mentioned in the source material.
Camper Reviews
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There are no user reviews available for Group Camp 1, so visitor feedback is unavailable.
Review Summaries
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
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Seasonal Insights
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Site-Specific Reviews
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Accessibility Features
No user reviews address accessibility features or experiences for individuals with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
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Last updated August 10, 2025