Matanzas State Forest Cedar Creek Campground

For Floridians seeking a true escape into nature, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Matanzas State Forest Cedar Creek Campground offers an unparalleled primitive camping experience. Located within the vast expanse of Matanzas State Forest, this campground is not your typical amenity-rich RV resort. Instead, it’s a haven for those who appreciate tranquility, seclusion, and the raw beauty of Florida’s natural landscapes. If your idea of a perfect getaway involves quiet nights under a sky full of stars, surrounded by the sounds of the forest, then Cedar Creek Campground is calling your name.

This campground is designed for the self-sufficient camper, providing a rustic environment where the focus is on immersion in the outdoors. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and recharge, leaving behind the digital world for the serenity of nature. While it might lack some of the conveniences found in more developed campgrounds, it more than makes up for it with its peaceful atmosphere and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Many local campers laud its ability to provide a complete "get away from everything" experience, making it a beloved spot for those who cherish solitude and the simplicity of primitive camping.

Matanzas State Forest itself is a significant area of protected land, encompassing over 4,600 acres of diverse ecosystems, including pine flatwoods, hammocks, wetlands, and salt marshes. Cedar Creek Campground, nestled within this vibrant ecosystem, allows campers direct access to this natural wonderland. It’s a place where wildlife viewing is a common occurrence, from various bird species to deer and gopher tortoises. If you’re a Floridian who values a genuine connection with the environment and a break from crowded tourist spots, Matanzas State Forest Cedar Creek Campground offers an authentic and refreshing camping adventure right in your backyard.

Matanzas State Forest Cedar Creek Campground is situated in Matanzas State Forest, with its official address listed as St Augustine Beach, FL 32086, USA. While the address might suggest a direct beachside location, it's important to note that the campground is located within the state forest, which is south of the immediate St. Augustine Beach coastline. This placement provides a peaceful, secluded setting away from the direct coastal development, yet still offers convenient access to the historic city of St. Augustine and the beaches.

Access to the campground requires navigating some forest roads, which are generally well-maintained but can be narrow. For visitors with taller vehicles, such as RVs or those with roof racks, it's particularly important to follow specific camping signs rather than relying solely on GPS, as some routes may have low-hanging branches. This guidance helps ensure a smooth journey into this secluded retreat. Despite its "off-the-beaten-path" feel, the campground is only about 25 minutes south of St. Augustine, making it a viable option for locals seeking a quick escape without traveling too far.

For those coming from other parts of Florida, the campground is accessible via major routes leading to the St. Augustine area, such as US-1 and I-95. While there isn't direct water access for boat or kayak launches *within* the campground itself, opportunities for such activities exist within a 20-minute drive, allowing campers to easily venture out for paddling or fishing if desired. The surrounding area also offers small stores and a few places to eat just a few miles away, providing essential conveniences while maintaining the campground's remote feel. This balance of seclusion and accessibility makes Matanzas State Forest Cedar Creek Campground a uniquely appealing destination for Florida residents.

• Designated campsites suitable for tents, small RVs, and pop-up campers.
• Communal portable restrooms (porta-potty), regularly cleaned and well-stocked with toilet paper.
• Communal non-potable water pitcher pump (not for drinking; suitable for washing).
• Picnic tables at each campsite.
• Fire rings and grills at each campsite.
• Permit-based access to the campground, often requiring a gate combination for entry, ensuring privacy and security.
• Opportunities for primitive camping, emphasizing self-sufficiency and Leave No Trace principles.

• Extreme Seclusion and Quiet: Experience true tranquility away from crowds, with ample space between campsites, making it perfect for those seeking solitude and a break from everyday noise.
• Primitive Camping Experience: Ideal for campers who appreciate a rustic setting without modern hookups (no electricity or potable water), encouraging a genuine connection with nature.
• Extensive Trail Network: Matanzas State Forest offers numerous well-maintained roads and forest trails perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, catering to outdoor enthusiasts.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The diverse ecosystems within the forest provide a rich habitat for various wildlife, including songbirds, marsh birds, deer, otters, bald eagles, and gopher tortoises, making it a paradise for nature photographers and birdwatchers.
• Affordable Camping: Generally offers a more budget-friendly camping option compared to full-service RV resorts.
• Star-Gazing: With minimal light pollution, the campground offers excellent opportunities for clear night sky viewing and stargazing.
• Wheelchair Accessible Porta-Potty: Demonstrates consideration for accessibility, enhancing comfort for all visitors.
• Proximity to St. Augustine: Despite its secluded nature, the historic city of St. Augustine and its beaches are a relatively short drive away, allowing for day trips to explore cultural sites and coastal attractions.

Address: St Augustine Beach, FL 32086, USA (within Matanzas State Forest)

Phone: (904) 797-5073

Mobile Phone: +1 904-797-5073

For Floridians, Matanzas State Forest Cedar Creek Campground offers a unique and highly suitable option for a local getaway, especially for those yearning for a genuine wilderness experience. As residents of a state celebrated for its natural beauty, we often seek places where we can truly immerse ourselves in the environment, and this campground delivers precisely that. It’s not about glamping or luxury amenities; it’s about the raw, unfiltered beauty of Florida’s forests and the tranquility that comes with it. This appeals directly to the local desire for authentic outdoor adventure without having to travel far from home.

The primitive nature of Cedar Creek Campground is a key selling point for many Floridians. It encourages self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for nature, prompting campers to bring everything they need and leave nothing behind. This "back to basics" approach is a refreshing contrast to our often fast-paced lives, providing a much-needed reset. The small number of campsites (just four) ensures an unparalleled sense of solitude, allowing you to genuinely disconnect from the digital noise and reconnect with yourself, your companions, and the natural world. This level of peaceful seclusion is a rare find, especially within such reasonable driving distance for most of the state's population centers.

Furthermore, the extensive network of trails within Matanzas State Forest provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities, whether it's biking through the pine flatwoods, hiking along scenic paths, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk amidst diverse wildlife. This makes it an ideal spot for locals who are passionate about outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing. And while the campground itself doesn't offer direct water access for launching boats or kayaks, the close proximity to other launch points means that those activities are still easily accessible, adding versatility to your outdoor adventure.

In essence, Matanzas State Forest Cedar Creek Campground is a hidden gem for Floridians. It's a place where you can experience the profound quiet of nature, witness stunning starry nights, and embark on invigorating outdoor explorations, all while being relatively close to the historic charm of St. Augustine. It truly is a perfect getaway to escape everyday life, offering the serenity and genuine natural immersion that many of us, as locals, crave.

For a visual tour of this serene escape, consider watching this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJIyCLangDA) video.

Matanzas State Forest Cedar Creek Campground

St Augustine Beach, FL 32086, USA