Lake Shore Group Camp
4.3310 reviews8442 N.E 147TH AVENUE ROAD
Lake Shore Group Camp
$100.00 - $100.00 / 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$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Recreation use fee for group sites is $100 per night during peak season, which applies year-round. Additional fees include a $10 reservation change fee, $10 cancellation fee, and $20 no-show fee.
About this campground
Discover your perfect group getaway at Lake Shore Group Campground, where the pristine waters of Fore Lake meet the wild beauty of Ocala National Forest. This spacious retreat welcomes gatherings of up to 50 people, offering the perfect blend of sun-drenched gathering spaces and cool, shaded retreats beneath ancient oaks. Wake up to stunning lake views and spend your days creating memories with family and friends in one of Florida's most cherished natural sanctuaries.
Lake Shore Group Campground is primarily designed for group camping. It accommodates tent campers but allows RVs in the parking area. "The site can accommodate up to 50 guests," as per authoritative sources.
Historical SignificanceStep into the storied past of Scrambletown, where generations of Floridians have honored traditions of wilderness adventure and outdoor heritage. This historic community has long served as a gateway for hunters, explorers, and off-road enthusiasts seeking authentic Florida wilderness experiences, creating a rich tapestry of stories that echo through the pine forests and along the lake shores.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Florida's most comfortable camping weather during the magical winter months of January and February, when crisp mornings give way to pleasantly warm afternoons under clear blue skies. While summer brings the drama of afternoon thunderstorms and steamy tropical air, savvy campers know that fall and winter transform this lakeside haven into an outdoor paradise, with moderate temperatures perfect for everything from morning coffee by the water to evening campfire gatherings.
ElevationNestled at sea level amidst the gentle, rolling terrain of Ocala National Forest, this campground offers easy accessibility and comfortable camping without the challenges of altitude. The flat landscape creates perfect conditions for leisurely walks, accessible camping, and unobstructed views across the shimmering waters of Fore Lake.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss stand sentinel over 12 acres of pristine lake waters, while vibrant marshlands teem with life at the water's edge. This extraordinary ecosystem, protected within the world's largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest, offers front-row seats to nature's daily spectacle—from great blue herons stalking the shallows at dawn to painted skies reflecting on still waters at sunset. The distinctive saw palmetto understory creates a uniquely Floridian backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
Geological RegionJourney into the heart of north central Florida's crown jewel—the magnificent Ocala National Forest, sprawling across 383,000 acres and four counties. This remarkable landscape preserves the planet's largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest, a rare and ancient ecosystem found nowhere else on Earth. Here, millennia of geological processes have created a unique tapestry of sandy soils, crystal-clear springs, and pristine lakes that define this exceptional corner of the Sunshine State.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes an accessible picnic shelter, making it suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeThe campground accommodates up to 50 guests, offering ample space for group gatherings and activities.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are located in both shaded and sunny areas, all within sight of Fore Lake. Privacy is somewhat limited due to the open layout of the campground.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPlan well in advance; gate codes and bathroom keys may require follow-up with ranger stations. Reserve during cooler months to avoid ticks and chiggers.
Best CampsitesOnly one group site available (campsite 001).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
14-day stay limit in a 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 50 guests.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 50 guests and includes facilities like picnic tables, a group grill, and an accessible picnic shelter.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne group-use site near Fore Lake, designed for up to 50 guests.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens January 1, 2025, and closes June 30, 2026. Reservations can be made up to a year in advance.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov, including apps and contact centers.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee if canceled late. Late cancellations occur fewer than 14 calendar days before the arrival date for group facilities.
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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Shore Group Campground offers a range of activities centered around Fore Lake and its surrounding natural features. Popular activities include birding, fishing, picnicking, and swimming. "Fore Lake is an excellent spot for birding." Campers can also launch electric-motor boats, canoes, and kayaks from the facility's boat ramp. Note, swimming is allowed but carries risks due to the presence of alligators.
Hiking
While general information about hiking is mentioned in the authoritative content, specific hiking trails are not detailed for this campground.Fishing
Fishing is allowed along the shore, but prohibited within 50 yards of the boat ramp or designated swimming areas. "Excellent camping and fishing," one user review stated. However, campers should be cautious as user reviews have noted issues with ticks and chiggers near the lake.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in Fore Lake, but campers should be aware of the presence of alligators, as emphasized in the authoritative content: "Swim at your own risk."Boating
Boating activities are limited to electric-motor boats, canoes, and kayaks. Gasoline motor boats are prohibited.Wildlife viewing
Fore Lake and its surrounding marshes are home to many bird species, making it an excellent birding destination.Winter Activities
Camping and fishing are popular during the winter, which is noted as an ideal time to visit due to cooler temperatures and fewer insects.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are supported at Fore Lake, accessible via the boat ramp.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated rings.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsAlligators inhabit Fore Lake; swimming is at your own risk. Ticks and chiggers may be present, particularly in warmer weather.
Active alertsGate code issues often reported. Bathrooms may be locked or require prior arrangements for access. Tick and chigger infestation noted during warm weather.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Contact Marion County Sheriff's Office or Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC) for emergencies. Nearest ranger station is Alexander Springs (approximately 25 minutes away).
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026.
Trash and recyclingNo specific trash and recycling facilities are mentioned, but all food must be kept in approved containers to prevent issues with wildlife like bears and raccoons.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to Fore Lake. Swimming is allowed, but caution advised due to alligators.
Common complaintsGate code issues and lack of coordination from ranger stations were common complaints. Bathrooms were sometimes dirty, particularly during summer camps. Homeless activity and trespassing occasionally reported.
HostCamp hosts vary yearly, often described as friendly but coordination issues noted.
Campground Map
8442 N.E 147TH AVENUE ROAD
Driving directionsFrom I-75, west of Ocala, take exit 352 onto State Route 40 east. Continue for 10 miles to County Road 314. Turn left on 314 and go 6 miles. Turn left onto 147th Avenue Road and look for the Lake Shore sign and entrance on left.
Accessible via paved roads. Access from major highways is straightforward, though issues with gate combinations have been reported.Nearby places
Silver Springs: 15 miles (approximately 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Two local dollar stores are accessible within a 15-minute drive, and a Winn-Dixie supermarket is approximately 15 minutes away in Silver Springs.
Camper Reviews
4.3
10 reviews
Lake Shore Group Camp is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Lake Shore Group Campground vary widely. Positive reviews commend the location for its scenic beauty, spacious amenities, and suitability for group events. Negative reviews highlight issues such as bathroom cleanliness, gate code problems, and wildlife concerns like ticks and chiggers.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
"Always a great time for our group!" "The site gets reserved fairly quickly so plan well in advance." "Bathrooms and showers were clean." "We absolutely love it here! It's the perfect location!"
Based on 10 reviewsCommon Concerns
"Bathrooms are an absolute mess during the summer." "Combination to the gate was wrong even after calling ranger station." "Ticks and chiggers infested the area near the lake." "Locals just show up...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Plan well in advance; reservations fill up quickly. Bring insect repellent, as ticks and chiggers can be a problem. Verify gate codes prior to arrival and ensure all food is stored in approved...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter and fall are noted as ideal seasons for camping due to cooler temperatures and fewer insect problems. Summer months have issues with bathroom cleanliness and increased wildlife activity.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Lake Shore never disappointing. This is one of the very few group sites in Florida that has swimming, accommodates pets, and you don't share the restroom with anyone else." "Bathrooms are an...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 is mentioned frequently, with mixed reviews; some praise its facilities, while others criticize gate code issues and bathroom cleanliness.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground includes accessible features like the picnic shelter, but there is no detailed feedback from users on overall accessibility experiences.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed. "Accommodates pets," as noted in user reviews, but no specific pet-friendly features are highlighted.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025