River Forest Group Site
4.8412 reviews45700 River Forest Blvd, Deland, FL, 32720, USA
River Forest Group Site
$200.00 - $200.00 / 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$200.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Recreation use fee is $200. Reservation fees may vary based on booking method (online: $8, contact center: $9, in-person: $3). Additional fees may apply for changes ($10) or cancellations ($10 plus forfeiting first-night fee if late).
About this campground
Nestled beneath a canopy of ancient live oaks on the tranquil banks of the St. Johns River, River Forest Group Site offers an enchanting retreat for large gatherings in the heart of Ocala National Forest. This spacious riverside haven welcomes up to 125 guests, making it the perfect backdrop for unforgettable family reunions, intimate weddings, and group adventures. The site's centerpiece screened pavilion provides shelter for celebrations rain or shine, while upgraded bathhouses ensure comfort meets wilderness. Here, the gentle murmur of the river mingles with laughter and conversation, creating memories that last a lifetime.
River Forest Group Site is tailored to group camping, accommodating tents and RVs. While primarily a primitive camping facility, it does offer modern amenities like a bathhouse and a screened pavilion.
Historical SignificanceRiver Forest Group Site sits within the storied Ocala National Forest, a living testament to conservation history as the oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River and the southernmost in the nation. These ancient woodlands have witnessed centuries of change, from indigenous peoples navigating the St. Johns River to early settlers seeking refuge in the forest's bounty. Today, this protected landscape continues its legacy, offering modern adventurers a chance to connect with the same timeless wilderness that has captivated visitors for generations.
Weather and SeasonsRiver Forest enjoys Florida's signature mild climate, where comfortable temperatures grace the campground throughout the year. Winter months bring refreshingly cool mornings perfect for riverside coffee, while the characteristic dry air keeps humidity at bay. Spring and fall showcase nature at its finest, with gentle breezes rustling through the oak canopy. Even summer's warmth is tempered by the shade of towering trees and cooling river breezes, making any season ideal for your group gathering.
ElevationThe campground rests at river level, where the gentle topography creates an accessible, level camping experience perfect for groups of all ages and abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic live oaks draped in Spanish moss create a natural cathedral above River Forest, their spreading branches forming a living ceiling that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the ground below. Open grassy meadows flow like green rivers between the trees, leading visitors down to the legendary St. Johns River's edge. The surrounding floodplain forests teem with wildlife, while nearby pine flatwoods add their distinctive fragrance to the air. This diverse ecosystem provides endless opportunities for nature watching, from morning birdsong concerts to evening wildlife encounters along the riverbank.
Geological RegionRiver Forest Group Site lies within the remarkable 383,000-acre Ocala National Forest, spanning four counties in north-central Florida. This vast wilderness showcases the world's largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest, a globally rare ecosystem found nowhere else on Earth. The campground's location combines the best of this unique landscape: magnificent live oaks creating shaded sanctuaries, expansive grassy clearings perfect for group activities, and prime access to the St. Johns River, one of the few north-flowing rivers in the United States. This geological wonderland offers visitors a chance to experience Florida's natural heritage in its purest form.
Campsite details
AccessibilityDetails about accessibility features are not provided in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe group site accommodates up to 125 guests and offers spacious, flat, grassy areas suitable for large gatherings.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as secluded yet not overly remote, although one user raised privacy concerns due to the behavior of a host.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGroup site recommended for large gatherings. Pavilion provides shelter and electricity.
Best CampsitesGroup Site 01
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
14 days within a 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 125 guests allowed per group site.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 125 guests. RVs are welcome but must use designated parking areas as there are no hookups available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFlat layout with grassy and shaded areas. Vehicles limited to designated parking areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round (January 1 to December 31).
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov website, app, and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot specified; reservations strongly encouraged for group camping sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations allowed any time before arrival; $10 fee applies. Late cancellations (within 14 days of check-in) forfeit first night's fee. Changes to reservation dates outside original booking incur $10 fee.
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
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
River Forest Group Site offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The large field on-site supports group activities like softball, volleyball, and horseshoe tossing. Nearby attractions add to the recreational value, with access to the St. John's River and proximity to the St. Francis Trail. Reviews emphasize the area's suitability for group activities: "Great site for group camping!" noted one user.
Hiking
The St. Francis Trail offers opportunities for extended hikes through floodplain forests and pine flatwoods. "St. Francis hiking trail nearby..." mentioned one user, highlighting its accessibility.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the St. Johns River, which is adjacent to the campground. Bass fishing is specifically mentioned.Boating
The campground's location on the St. Johns River facilitates canoeing and kayaking. "Head to the river to canoe, kayak," noted the official description.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, but the campground is open year-round.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing and kayaking are available. Motorized water sports are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed; firewood must be sourced locally to prevent spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsBear and raccoon activity requires food storage precautions.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 73%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 10.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services in Deland, FL (approx. 5 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31 (year-round peak season).
Trash and recyclingTrash management is mentioned in reviews, with one user noting that a host provided instructions on garbage bagging. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to St. Johns River, with access for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention issues with campsite hosts, including perceived lack of privacy and rigid enforcement of rules.
HostOn-site hosts available; reviews mention varying levels of hospitality and rule enforcement.
Campground Map
45700 River Forest Blvd, Deland, FL, 32720, USA
Driving directionsFrom Deland, Florida, drive west on State Route 44 to the first intersection after crossing the St. Johns River. Turn right on County Road 42, and the entrance to the campground is on the right.
Accessible via paved roads; roads are suitable for standard vehicles. Seasonal closures or challenging terrain are not mentioned.Nearby places
Deland (5 miles, approx. 10 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Deland, FL, including groceries, fuel, and camping gear.
Camper Reviews
4.8
12 reviews
River Forest Group Site is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews for River Forest Group Site are highly positive. Common praises include the spaciousness of the site and its suitability for group events, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the attentive hosts. Negative comments are rare but include concerns about the limited number of restrooms and privacy issues with one host.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the site's spaciousness, cleanliness, and the amenities provided, such as the new bathhouse and the screened pavilion. Hosts are often described as helpful and attentive:...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviewers mentioned the limited restroom facilities, with only two toilets for men and women each. One reviewer also raised concerns about the behavior of a campground host, citing intrusive...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own chairs and tables for events, as these are not provided. Plan for a two-night minimum stay on weekends. Consider the lack of RV hookups when planning your trip.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews do not explicitly highlight seasonal differences, but the positive feedback suggests it is a comfortable destination year-round.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Such a beautiful and amazing campsite along the St. John's river. The campground was so spacious, had an amazing dining pavilion with electricity and upgraded bathhouses." — Annie P.<br>"Very nice...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 01 in Loop RFGS received mixed reviews. One user praised the beauty of the site but criticized the behavior of the host, stating, "We felt we had no privacy and were very uncomfortable."
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is not discussed in the reviews.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, but user reviews reflect inconsistent enforcement of leash rules. One review noted, "The hosts came back over and said that all dogs have to be on leash since they...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025