Maple Set Campground

For Floridians, the call of the wild is often answered by our state's diverse and enchanting natural landscapes. From the pristine beaches to the ancient forests and winding rivers, Florida offers countless opportunities to reconnect with nature, unwind, and embark on memorable outdoor adventures. When it comes to camping, many of us seek a spot that provides both a genuine wilderness experience and convenient access to the activities we love. If you're looking to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Northeast Florida, particularly near the tranquil St. Mary's River, then Maple Set Campground in Sanderson is a destination worth considering. It’s a place where the simple joys of camping truly come alive.

Maple Set Campground is not your typical RV resort; it’s a more rustic, tent-focused campground designed for those who appreciate the untouched beauty of Florida's state forests. Nestled within the expansive John M. Bethea State Forest, it offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle, allowing campers to truly "unplug" and embrace the serene environment. While the campsites are not directly waterfront, they offer quick and easy access to the St. Mary's River, providing opportunities for water-based recreation. Reviewers consistently praise the meticulous maintenance of the area and the beauty of its trails, confirming that this is a place where nature is preserved and cherished.

Maple Set Campground is strategically located at 11656 FL-2, Sanderson, FL 32087, USA. This address places it within the John M. Bethea State Forest in Baker County, roughly 30 minutes north of Sanderson. Sanderson itself is a small community in Northeast Florida, offering a quiet, rural atmosphere that perfectly complements the natural setting of the campground.

The campground's location provides excellent accessibility for those seeking a genuine outdoor experience. State Road 2 connects campers to the wider regional road network, making it relatively straightforward to reach from various parts of Florida. What truly defines this location, however, is its immersion in the state forest and its proximity to the St. Mary's River. This puts campers directly in touch with a rich ecosystem that serves as a continuous wildlife corridor between the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge in Georgia and the Osceola National Forest in Florida. This means abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing, bird watching, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.

While the setting is natural and somewhat secluded, basic amenities in Sanderson are within a reasonable driving distance, ensuring that campers can resupply if needed. The focus here is less on immediate urban conveniences and more on the immersive natural experience, making it an ideal spot for Floridians looking for a true escape into the state's wild heartland.

Maple Set Campground offers a more primitive camping experience, focusing on essential services that support a connection with nature. It's important to set expectations that this is not a full-service RV park with extensive amenities, but rather a charming spot for tent camping enthusiasts. Services typically include:

• Tent Campsites: Four designated tent sites are available, accommodating up to 8 campers each. These sites are designed for traditional tent camping.
• Non-Potable Water: A communal pitcher pump provides non-potable water, suitable for washing or other uses but not for drinking without proper treatment. Campers should bring their own potable water.
• No Electric or Water Hookups: The campsites are primitive, meaning there are no electric or water hookups available at individual sites. This contributes to the rustic camping experience.
• No Bathroom Facilities: There are no permanent bathroom facilities. Portalets may be in place seasonally, but campers should be prepared for a more primitive restroom situation.
• Fire Rings: Campsites include fire rings, perfect for campfires (check local regulations for burn bans).
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with picnic tables for convenient outdoor dining.
• Reserved in Advance: Campsites must be reserved in advance through Reserve America, ensuring your spot is secured.

Due to the primitive nature, campers should plan to be self-sufficient and bring all necessary supplies, including insect repellent, as reviews note this is a must.

Despite its primitive nature, Maple Set Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a desirable destination for outdoor lovers in Florida:

• Beautiful Shaded & Spacious Campsites: Reviewers consistently mention the "nicely shaded and spacious" campsites, providing comfort and a natural canopy against the Florida sun.
• Direct Access to St. Mary's River: Although not directly waterfront from each site, the campground provides quick access to the St. Mary's River. This allows for recreational activities such as fishing, swimming (in designated areas), and canoeing/kayaking (though recent reviews note challenges due to fallen trees downstream).
• Gorgeous and Meticulously Maintained Trails: The campground is a gateway to "gorgeous trails" that are "meticulously maintained." The Maple Set Trail offers a 2.5-mile loop with segments along the river and through diverse forest, ideal for hiking and exploring.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Situated within John M. Bethea State Forest, the area is part of an important wildlife corridor, offering chances to see Florida black bears, river otters, bobcats, and a variety of bird species including hawks, wood storks, and bald eagles.
• Peaceful, Clean Environment: The reviews highlight a lack of "camping trash at all," indicating a well-managed and respected natural space, ideal for a relaxing and enjoyable experience to "unplug and soak up nature."
• Proximity to John M. Bethea State Forest: The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the over 37,000 acres of woodlands, river frontage, and recreational opportunities within the state forest, including day-use areas and additional trails for horseback riding.
• Swimming Area and Boardwalk: The campground features a designated swimming area and a boardwalk, providing unique ways to enjoy the river and its surroundings.

It's important to be aware of seasonal hunting that occurs in the Osceola WMA (Wildlife Management Area) under FWC regulations. If you plan to hike, check ahead for hunt dates and wear safety orange for visibility.

For reservations or more detailed information about Maple Set Campground, please use the following contact details. Remember that reservations must be made in advance:

Address: 11656 FL-2, Sanderson, FL 32087, USA

Phone: (904) 259-4688

Mobile Phone: +1 904-259-4688

Reservations are typically handled through the Florida State Forests portal on Reserve America.

For Floridians, Maple Set Campground offers a compelling and authentic outdoor experience that perfectly aligns with a love for our state’s unique natural heritage. Its suitability for locals stems from several key aspects that make it an ideal retreat from daily life.

Firstly, its location within the John M. Bethea State Forest provides a genuine immersion into Florida's wild heart. For those of us living in the more developed parts of the state, a trip to Sanderson offers a refreshing change of pace, putting us directly in touch with pristine forests and the serene St. Mary's River. This accessibility to such an untouched natural environment, especially one that acts as a vital wildlife corridor, is a significant draw for any local looking to escape into nature without traveling too far.

Secondly, the campground caters to a specific type of outdoor enthusiast: those who appreciate primitive camping. For Floridians who own tents and cherish a more rustic experience, Maple Set provides spacious, shaded sites that foster a true connection with the outdoors. It's a place where you can genuinely "unplug," enjoy the sounds of nature, and gather around a campfire under the Florida stars. The emphasis on hiking the meticulously maintained trails and engaging in activities like fishing and canoeing on the St. Mary's River appeals directly to our state's outdoor culture.

Finally, the meticulous upkeep of the area, noted by visitors, ensures that the natural beauty is preserved, and the experience remains enjoyable. While it requires campers to be self-sufficient, this very aspect appeals to many locals who seek a less commercialized and more authentic camping adventure. Maple Set Campground is not just a place to stay; it's a gateway to exploring the rich biodiversity and tranquil waterways of Northeast Florida, making it an ideal and rewarding choice for any local looking to embrace the outdoor lifestyle.

Maple Set Campground

11656 FL-2, Sanderson, FL 32087, USA