Matanzas State Forest Group Camp
00 review6840 US Highway 1 South, St. Augustine, Florida, 32086, United States
Matanzas State Forest Group Camp
$9.00 - $9.00 / 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$9.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee for each campsite is $9 plus tax. Payment is required online to secure a reservation and obtain a gate code for entry.
About this campground
Escape into the wild heart of Florida at Matanzas State Forest Group Camp, a hidden gem tucked away in the pristine wetlands just south of historic St. Augustine. This back-to-basics paradise offers four secluded group tent sites, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and grills for memorable outdoor gatherings. Here, you'll trade modern conveniences for an authentic wilderness experience—no electricity, running water, or trash services means you'll truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Days unfold with endless possibilities for exploration, from meandering through forest trails to spotting rare birds and observing native wildlife in their natural habitat.
The Matanzas State Forest Group Camp offers primitive camping with minimal amenities, suitable for those seeking a back-to-nature experience.
Historical SignificanceYour campsite sits within a remarkable conservation success story, where the Matanzas State Forest serves as guardian to pristine salt marshes that form part of the prestigious Guana-Tolomato-Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve. This protected landscape bridges centuries of history, positioned perfectly between the cobblestone streets of America's oldest city, St. Augustine, and the weathered walls of Fort Matanzas National Monument, where Spanish colonial history whispers through the coastal winds.
Weather and SeasonsThe subtropical climate creates an ever-changing tapestry throughout the year, with October emerging as a sweet spot when pesky insects take their leave and comfortable temperatures invite extended outdoor adventures. During the rainy season, the forest transforms into a lush, emerald wonderland, though the grounds can become delightfully swampy—a reminder that you're camping in a living, breathing wetland ecosystem where nature sets the rules.
ElevationThe campground rests at the gentle interface where ancient maritime forests meet coastal wetlands, creating a subtle but fascinating topography that shapes the unique ecosystem surrounding your tent.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering palms and a dense understory of native plants create natural privacy screens between campsites, transforming each spot into its own secret hideaway. The surrounding landscape pulses with life—majestic bald eagles patrol the skies while playful otters slip through hidden waterways below. Morning brings a symphony of songbirds, while afternoons might reveal white-tailed deer stepping delicately through the shadows or ancient gopher tortoises ambling across sandy patches, reminders that you're a guest in their timeless domain.
Geological RegionSpanning an impressive 4,699 acres, Matanzas State Forest encompasses a remarkable mosaic of woodlands and wetlands that tell the story of Florida's coastal evolution. This ecological treasure trove includes untouched salt marshes within the Guana-Tolomato-Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, where land and sea mingle in an intricate dance. The landscape supports an astonishing diversity of life, from soaring bald eagles and melodious songbirds to secretive otters, graceful deer, and prehistoric gopher tortoises, all thriving beneath a canopy of palms and hardwoods that have weathered countless storms and seasons.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were described in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with one review stating, "We stayed in site #2 and...this site was really big."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. "The vegetation is lush, lots of palm trees," but not all sites are secluded. Site #4 is noted as the most private, while other sites are closer together.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #2 has space for hanging two hammocks but is visible to site #3. Site #4 is described as the only one worth returning to due to its privacy.
Best CampsitesSite #4 is often noted as the most private and desirable. "Campsites in order of privacy from best to worst: 4, 1, 2, 3."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1PM
Check-out
10 PM
Stay Limit
4campsites available with maximum occupancy per campsite of 20 individuals.
Guests Allowed Per Site
20 people per site.
Groups
The group campsite accommodates up to 20 people. "Campsites in order of privacy from best to worst: 4, 1, 2, 3," according to a user. Each site has a picnic table, grill, and fire ring.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFour campsites are located within the group camp. Sites #1, #2, and #3 are close together, while site #4 is more isolated.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made online to obtain a gate code for entry.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are not available for walk-ups; reservations are mandatory due to the gated entry system.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy is not explicitly detailed in authoritative content.
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
Activities at Matanzas State Forest Group Camp include hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, photography, hunting, biking, and horseback riding. The forest is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, making it an attractive spot for bird enthusiasts.
Hiking
Hiking is a key activity, with forest roads and trails available for exploration. Specific trail lengths and difficulty levels weren't detailed, but the terrain is described as forested and natural.Biking
Biking is supported, especially on forest trails. The exact difficulty and extent of the trails are not described.Wildlife viewing
The forest is rich in wildlife, including deer, otters, bald eagles, and gopher tortoises. One user reported seeing a bear near site #4, adding, "I just kept quiet and let it pass."Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were highlighted in the source materials.Water Sports
There are no non-motorized water sports available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within provided fire rings and grills. Firewood should be sourced locally to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours are stated, but user complaints suggest noise issues.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks are reported to be a significant issue. "I pulled over 100 ticks off of me." Ants were noted but manageable. Non-potable water from the pump station is described as smelling like diesel.
Active alertsNo specific alerts provided, but user reviews indicate concerns about ticks and noisy neighbors impacting sleep quality.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Thunderstorm
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Thunderstorm
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
Closest emergency services are likely in St. Augustine, which is 25 minutes away. No official ranger station is noted within the campground.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash or recycling facilities on-site. Campers must pack out all their trash. A user emphasized, "There are no trash bins so plan to pack out your own trash please."
Proximity to water featuresA swampy creek is located behind campsite #2. "Didn't have any wildlife bother us, but we never leave food out either."
Common complaintsNoise from neighboring campers and lack of enforcement of rules were cited. "Noise was terrible, we tried to talk with them, nobody answered. Impossible to sleep." Porta-potty cleanliness was criticized.
HostNo host presence was noted in reviews or authoritative content.
Campground Map
6840 US Highway 1 South, St. Augustine, Florida, 32086, United States
Driving directionsFrom Exit 305 on I-95, travel east on County Road 206 for 2 miles. Turn right (south) on US Hwy 1. Travel 2.8 miles on US Hwy 1, and turn left (east) on Double Gate Road into the main entrance of Matanzas State Forest. Travel 1.4 miles and turn left (north) on Longleaf Road. Travel 0.4 miles and turn right (east) on Evans Road. Travel 1 mile and turn left (north) on Group Camp Road. Travel 1.2 miles to the campground.
The roads leading to the campground are mostly unpaved and can be challenging for low-slung cars, especially after heavy rain. The entrance is gated, and a combination lock is used for access. "The road in is heavily washboarded."Nearby places
St. Augustine is approximately 25 minutes away. Crescent Beach is about 10 minutes from the forest entrance and 25 minutes from the campground.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies include a Publix grocery store approximately 7 miles away, which sells firewood. A nearby gas station offers convenience items but does not sell firewood. Smokin D's BBQ is a notable nearby restaurant.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Matanzas State Forest Group Camp has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's remote and quiet location, lush vegetation, and opportunities for privacy. Feedback also indicates that the facilities are primitive, with some complaints about the porta-potty and ticks.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated the remote and serene environment. "Cute, small campground, well off the beaten path, deep in the forest," remarked one user. Site #4 is frequently praised for its privacy.
Common Concerns
Negative aspects include the lack of amenities like trash bins and drinking water. "The pump water station...stunk like diesel," said one camper. Others disliked the porta-potty and the heavily...
Show more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water and trash bags. "Publix is about 7 miles away and they do offer firewood," one reviewer recommended.
Seasonal Insights
October appears to be a favorable time, with one reviewer noting, "Overall bugs were minimal. But we also camped in October." Rainy conditions could make roads difficult, and tick issues were noted...
Show more
Camper Quotes
"We stayed in site #2...this site was really big." "The vegetation is lush, lots of palm trees." "Nice size snakes and other wildlife." "In the one night of being there, I pulled over 100 ticks off...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #4 is consistently rated the best for privacy. Site #2 is spacious but visible from site #3. Sites #1 through #3 are closer together and less secluded.
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility-related user reviews were mentioned.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific user reviews address this aspect.
Last updated August 10, 2025