Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest Sumatra Primitive Campsites
00 review40169 SE Campsite Rd., Sumatra, Florida, 32335, United States
Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest Sumatra Primitive Campsites
$9.00 - $12.00 / 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 range from $9.17 to $12 per night for primitive camping. Some user reviews describe discrepancies in the fee setup, and costs may vary depending on individual sites.
About this campground
Deep within the mysterious Tate's Hell State Forest lies a true wilderness escape where modern amenities fade away and raw nature takes center stage. This primitive campground strips camping down to its essence—just you, your tent, and the untamed beauty of Florida's largest state forest. Simple picnic tables, fire rings, and grills are your only companions as you immerse yourself in a world of ancient waterways and pristine wilderness. Days here unfold with paddle strokes through mirror-black waters, fishing lines cast into the New River, and endless opportunities to capture the forest's haunting beauty through your lens or binoculars.
Tate's Hell State Forest Sumatra Primitive Campsites cater to primitive, RV, and tent camping. The sites are designed for minimalistic camping experiences.
Historical SignificanceThe very name 'Tate's Hell' whispers of mystery and legend, carrying forward tales from Florida's frontier past that still echo through these ancient forests. Local folklore speaks of a man named Tate who ventured into this vast wilderness and emerged days later, uttering 'My name is Cebe Tate, and I just came from Hell!' before collapsing. Today, this storied landscape preserves not just ecological treasures but cultural memories woven into the very fabric of North Florida's identity.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Florida's wild side through dramatically shifting seasons that transform this primitive paradise. Winter brings blessed relief with crisp 62°F afternoons perfect for hiking and cool 48°F nights ideal for campfire gatherings. As summer arrives, the forest becomes a steamy, primordial world where 88°F days give way to balmy 70°F nights filled with cricket symphonies. Afternoon thunderstorms during warmer months create a dynamic atmosphere, turning the forest into a lush, rain-scented wonderland where every drop feeds the ancient cypress and pristine waterways.
ElevationThis is camping at sea level's edge, where the land barely rises above the waterline and every depression holds secrets. The low-lying terrain creates a mesmerizing tapestry of wetlands and water features, where solid ground gives way to mysterious bog gardens and hidden pools that reflect the sky like scattered mirrors throughout the forest floor.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanted world where nature defies expectations at every turn. Ancient dwarf cypress trees, weathered by 150 years yet standing no taller than 15 feet, create a fairytale landscape unlike anywhere else in Florida. These botanical marvels rise from wet prairies that shimmer with wildflowers, while strand swamps and baygalls harbor secrets in their shadowy depths. Black bears lumber through the understory, otters play in hidden streams, and deer materialize like ghosts at dawn's first light. Every paddle stroke down the New River reveals new wonders—from sun-dappled cypress knees to pristine wetlands teeming with life.
Geological RegionSprawling across an astounding 202,437 acres between the mighty Apalachicola and Ochlockonee Rivers, Tate's Hell State Forest encompasses one of the most diverse wetland systems in North America. This vast wilderness sanctuary in Franklin and Liberty Counties protects 107,300 acres of floodplains where ancient rivers have carved their stories into the landscape. The forest's remarkable hydric communities—from wet prairies carpeted in wildflowers to mysterious strand swamps and baygalls—create a mosaic of ecosystems found nowhere else. Here, diminutive dwarf cypress groves stand as living monuments, their 150-year-old trunks telling tales of adaptation and survival in this watery wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information about ADA accessibility features at the campground.
Sites SizeThe maximum equipment length allowed is 48 feet.
Sites PrivacySome sites are described as secluded, while others may have less privacy due to proximity to other campers or visitors.
Total Campsites35 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend sites along the New River for fishing and kayaking opportunities. Site #26 is praised for privacy.
Best CampsitesSite #26 is noted for its seclusion and scenic qualities, although the road leading to it is rugged. Rock Landing is described as quiet with good fishing opportunities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights allowed, as mentioned in user reviews.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are dispersed along the riverbanks or within isolated areas of the forest. No detailed layout map is provided.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; peak season may vary depending on hunting and fishing seasons.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through Reserve America.
Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews mention walk-in sites, but no detailed statistics on site availability are provided.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not detailed, but reservations are required and can be made online.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers diverse activities, such as fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. Opportunities for stargazing, photography, and picnicking are also available. Nearby attractions include Franklin County Beaches and Apalachicola National Forest.
Hiking
The forest is part of the Florida Scenic Trail, offering various hiking opportunities. User reviews describe the terrain as flat and easy to navigate, but some roads are poorly maintained.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, as the campsites are located near rivers and streams. A valid fishing license is required.Biking
User reviews describe biking on the dirt roads within the forest as an enjoyable activity. However, poorly maintained roads may limit accessibility.Boating
The campground provides excellent access for canoeing, kayaking, and small boats along the New River. A concrete boat launch is available at Cash Creek.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, with opportunities to observe otters, possums, deer, and various bird species. The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail runs through the forest.Winter Activities
Minimal to no winter activities reported.Water Sports
Canoeing and kayaking are highly favored water sports in the area.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings and grills are available at each site. Firewood must be brought in, as no mention of firewood availability is provided.
- Quiet hours not formally mentioned, though user reviews complain of noise from hunters and partygoers disrupting the tranquility.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include aggressive yellow flies during warmer months, ticks, poisonous snakes like rattlesnakes, and proximity to wildlife such as black bears and alligators.
Active alertsNo specific advisories or alerts are provided, though users have noted ongoing issues with cleanliness and noise disturbances from nearby hunters.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Thunderstorm
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 82%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Florida Forest Service Dispatch (for non-emergency assistance between 5:00 pm - 8:00 am): (850) 681-5950.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpecific peak season dates are not provided, though hunting seasons in winter may affect availability.
Trash and recyclingUser reviews report trash at some campsites, with inconsistent maintenance from park staff to address littering issues. Campers are advised to pack out their own trash.
Proximity to water featuresCampsites are located along the riverbanks of the New River, offering direct access for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
Common complaintsUser reviews consistently mention issues with trash, lack of enforcement of rules leading to disruptive parties, and non-functional water availability as noted in reservation systems.
HostMixed reviews on campground hosts, with some users finding hosts helpful and others citing confrontational behavior and unrestrained dogs.
Campground Map
40169 SE Campsite Rd., Sumatra, Florida, 32335, United States
Driving directionsGPS Info 1 Sumatra: 30.0318 -84.8275 From SR 65, turn on Eighth Street (FH 22) and travel about 5.7 miles; turn right onto Cut-Thru Road and travel about 0.7 mile; turn first left (onto Nero Road) and travel about 3.9 miles; turn left onto Campsite Road. The campsite is about 0.9 mile ahead at the end of the road.
Road access is primarily dirt roads and subject to extreme weather conditions. Some user reviews describe the roads as rough, requiring careful navigation; 4-wheel drive vehicles may be recommended in certain areas during poor weather.Nearby places
Sumatra, FL: 10 miles (~30 minutes drive)
Apalachicola, FL: null
Carrabelle, FL: null
Nearby supplies
Gas stations and grocery stores are located greater than 10 miles from the campground. The nearest population centers include coastal towns like Eastpoint and Carrabelle.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Tate&Apos;S Hell State Forest Sumatra Primitive Campsites has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty and tranquility of the campground. However, concerns about litter, noise from hunters and party groups, and lack of maintenance are frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users praise the scenic beauty, wildlife viewing opportunities, and the remote, serene environment. Activities such as fishing, canoeing, and hiking receive positive feedback.
Common Concerns
Common complaints include litter at campsites, noise disturbances from hunters and party groups, poorly maintained roads, and lack of enforcement of park rules.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and supplies as there are no on-site facilities. Be prepared for rough road conditions, and arrive early to secure the best sites.
Seasonal Insights
The campground is more active during hunting seasons, which may lead to noise and disruptions. Summer months see an influx of mosquitoes and other insects.
Camper Quotes
"It is a beautiful area to camp but lacks regulation." - Ratzzila M. Rekab, "The fishing was great but the yellow flies were fierce." - Kristine Bryant, "Great camping locations but trails could be...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 44 was noted for its lack of privacy as it was used by out-of-town visitors for fishing. Crooked River #45 is described as quiet and well-suited for a tranquil stay.
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but user reviews mention concerns about unleashed dogs from fellow campers or hosts.
Last updated August 10, 2025