Mutual Mine Youth Group Camp Withlacoochee State Forest
00 review15003 Broad Street, Brooksville, Florida, 34601-4201, United States
Mutual Mine Youth Group Camp Withlacoochee State Forest
$10.00 - $15.00 / 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 vary, with reports of $10 per night for primitive camping and $15 per night for standard sites.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Withlacoochee State Forest, Mutual Mine Group Campground serves as a haven for young adventurers and their mentors. This specialized retreat welcomes organized youth groups—from Boy Scout troops to church organizations—offering them a chance to connect with nature while building lifelong memories. The campground provides essential amenities including fresh potable water and clean restroom facilities, ensuring comfort without compromising the authentic outdoor experience.
The Mutual Mine Youth Group Camp primarily caters to organized youth groups and offers primitive, group tent camping facilities.
Historical SignificanceThe campground rests on land steeped in centuries of history, where the Withlacoochee—meaning 'crooked river' in the language of Native Americans who first named these waters—winds through an expansive forest preserve. This remarkable wilderness spans five counties and contains pristine waterways designated as Outstanding Florida Waters, a testament to their ecological importance and the ongoing commitment to preserve this natural treasure for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Florida's dynamic climate throughout the year at Mutual Mine. Most weeks bring clear skies and dry conditions perfect for outdoor activities, punctuated by refreshing rainfall that nourishes the forest's vibrant ecosystem. Summer months envelop visitors in warm, humid embraces typical of the Southeast, while winter offers a gentle reprieve with mild temperatures ideal for campfire gatherings and nighttime stargazing.
ElevationThe campground's gentle terrain provides an accessible outdoor experience for groups of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the mirror-like reflections on a serene man-made lake, where morning mist dances across the water's surface. The surrounding landscape unfolds like a living painting—rolling pine sand hills give way to dense woodland groves, while seasonal wildflowers paint splashes of color along forest trails. This diverse habitat supports an impressive cast of wildlife, from majestic bald eagles soaring overhead to playful fox squirrels darting through the canopy. Lucky visitors might spot gentle gopher tortoises ambling through the underbrush or catch glimpses of deer and wild turkeys moving silently through the morning shadows.
Geological RegionMutual Mine sits within the magnificent Withlacoochee State Forest, a sprawling wilderness sanctuary that stretches across five Florida counties. This ecological wonderland encompasses everything from sun-drenched pine sand hills to mysterious dense woodlands connected by atmospheric canopied roads. The forest's crown jewels—the Withlacoochee River and Little Withlacoochee River—flow as designated Outstanding Florida Waters, creating vital corridors for wildlife including resident bald eagles, endemic fox squirrels, ancient gopher tortoises, graceful deer, and strutting wild turkeys that call this protected landscape home.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility options for campers with disabilities are not detailed in the authoritative content or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe site is designed for group camping, with ample space to accommodate up to 50 people.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Sites 1, 2, and 13 are noted for their seclusion. However, some reviews mention the sites being close together, leading to reduced privacy.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites 1 or 2 for seclusion, sites 4 to 6 for proximity to restrooms, and avoid sites near Trail 16 if road noise and challenging terrain bother you.
Best CampsitesSites 1, 2, and 13 are noted for their privacy, while sites 4, 5, and 6 are closest to bathrooms.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time details are not provided.
Check-out
Check-out time details are not provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit not explicitly mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 50 people are allowed for group camping.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 50 people. There are no additional details about vehicle limits or specific configurations.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 13 sites, some closer together than others. Sites are equipped with water but no electricity.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online; a gate code is provided upon booking.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not mentioned; reservations are required for access.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules are not explicitly stated; a code is provided for gate access upon reservation.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of recreational activities, with an emphasis on hiking and outdoor exploration. Being adjacent to a man-made lake, opportunities for water-related activities may exist but are not explicitly detailed. Seasonal hunting and wildlife viewing are available in the surrounding Withlacoochee State Forest.
Hiking
Hiking is a prominent activity at this campground, with trails nearby. Some trails are described as scenic and extensive, with opportunities to explore old caves. Miles of trails are easily accessible without driving.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are mentioned, particularly in the lake near the campground. However, some users found access to the lake difficult for fishing.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is encouraged, with habitats for species like bald eagles and fox squirrels in the Withlacoochee State Forest. The area is noted for its diverse flora and fauna.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed in the provided materials.Water Sports
Water sports activities are not mentioned in the source materials or user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed with downed wood; cutting green wood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include challenging terrain on Trail 16 with sugar sand, wildlife such as gopher tortoises, and prescribed burns. Visitors are advised to call WSF Dispatch at 352-797-4100 to verify prescribed burn schedules.
Active alertsVisitors are advised to monitor prescribed burns and wear blaze orange during hunting seasons.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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
Nearest emergency services include WSF Dispatch at 352-797-4100. Further details on hospitals or police stations were not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly detailed in the source materials. User reviews occasionally mention proximity to trash facilities, but specifics are lacking.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located next to a man-made lake, which is described as clear mine water. However, lake access for fishing or swimming may be restricted.
Common complaintsComplaints include road noise, challenging terrain on Trail 16, lack of electricity, and proximity of sites leading to reduced privacy.
HostMultiple reviews praise the campground hosts as welcoming, friendly, and helpful. Hosts include Kirk, Marty, and Arron.
Campground Map
15003 Broad Street, Brooksville, Florida, 34601-4201, United States
Driving directionsVia I-75: Take Exit 329 SR 44 (Gulf-Atlantic Highway) for Wildwood, FL. Head west on SR 44 towards Inverness. At the intersection with US 41, continue west to the traffic light at CR-581 (Pleasant Grove Road) and Applebee's restaurant. Go south on CR-581 (Pleasant Grove Road) approximately 6 miles to FR (Trail)16. Turn right (west) and the entrance to the campground will be on your left. Via Suncoast Parkway: Take the Suncoast Parkway (TR-589) north to the Interchange at US Hwy 98. Bear right to US Hwy 98 (south) and continue approximately 3.5 miles to C-491 (Lecanto Hwy). Turn left (north) on C-491 and continue C-480 (Stage Coach Trail) and turn right (east). Continue east on C-480 (Stage Coach Trail) to the stop sign at C-581 (Pleasant Grove Rd). Turn left and continue north on C-581 approximately 4.5 miles to FR (Trail) 16 and the directional sign announcing the Mutual Mine Recreation Area. Turn left (west) and the entrance will be on your left.
Road access includes paved roads and unpaved routes such as Trail 16, which is noted for its challenging terrain with sugar sand for 3 miles. Seasonal closures or conditions were not explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Inverness (less than 30-minute drive), Crystal River (approximately 30-minute drive), Tampa (approximately 1-hour drive).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Inverness or other nearby towns, including Crystal River and possibly Tampa for specialized needs.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Mutual Mine Youth Group Camp Withlacoochee State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews praise the campground for its scenic setting, cleanliness, and suitability for group camping. Camp hosts are frequently commended for their friendliness and helpfulness.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciate the natural beauty, clean restrooms, proximity to hiking trails, and the welcoming camp hosts. The no-pets policy is liked by some for maintaining peace. Specific sites like 1,...
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Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes the lack of electricity, limited privacy at some sites, and road noise. The firewood provided is often wet, and some visitors found the directions to the site confusing.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a long hose for accessing water, and avoid Trail 16 if using a two-wheel-drive vehicle. Sites near the bathrooms like 4, 5, and 6 are more convenient, but sites 1 and 13 offer better privacy.
Seasonal Insights
The campground is quieter on weekdays and during the off-season. Summer can be more crowded, while cooler months are preferred for comfort.
Camper Quotes
- 'Without a doubt my boys had one of the best experiences of their life.' - Chris Yarn\n- 'Bathrooms are clean and well maintained, but are open air and older.' - Sam Harden\n- 'Wonderful experience...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 1, 2, and 13 are praised for privacy and size. Sites near the bathroom, like 4, 5, and 6, are convenient but less private. Sites 7 to 12 are noted as closer together.
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
The no-pets policy is polarizing—praised by some for maintaining peace and criticized by others for being restrictive.
Last updated August 10, 2025