River Forest Group Camping

Welcome to River Forest Group Camping, a fantastic destination nestled within the picturesque Ocala National Forest, just a stone's throw from DeLand, Florida. For Floridians seeking an ideal spot for group gatherings, family reunions, or even specialized meetups, this campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty and essential amenities. It's a place where the tranquility of the forest meets the convenience needed for larger groups to enjoy the great outdoors together. From the serene banks of the St. Johns River to the dedicated efforts of our wonderful camp host, River Forest Group Camping is designed to provide a memorable and highly recommended experience for all who visit.

This article will serve as your comprehensive guide to River Forest Group Camping, highlighting why it’s a perfect choice for locals across Florida. We'll explore its peaceful location, the valuable services and facilities available, and the distinct features that make it stand out, including insights from real customer experiences. We understand that Floridians value both accessibility and a genuine connection with nature, and River Forest Group Camping delivers on both fronts, making it an excellent option for your next group adventure or peaceful retreat in the heart of the Sunshine State.

River Forest Group Camping is conveniently located at 45700 River Forest Blvd, DeLand, FL 32720, USA. This prime location places it within the vast and beautiful Ocala National Forest, a significant natural treasure in Central Florida. For residents across the state, particularly those in the greater Orlando, Daytona Beach, Gainesville, and Ocala areas, the campground is easily accessible. DeLand itself is a charming city known for its historic downtown and vibrant community, offering a blend of natural escapes and local attractions.

Accessing River Forest Group Camping involves navigating a road that, while a point of feedback for some visitors due to potholes, is still manageable even for large rigs. As one reviewer noted, "The road coming in could use the big potholes filled in, but you can get a big rig in here." This indicates that while caution is advised, the campground is indeed reachable for a variety of vehicles. Its position along the shores of the St. Johns River provides direct access to water-based activities, making it ideal for fishing, canoeing, or simply enjoying the riverside scenery. The combination of its serene forest setting and proximity to major Central Florida hubs makes River Forest Group Camping a conveniently located retreat for any local looking to gather with others in a natural environment.

• Group Camping Facilities: Specifically designed to accommodate groups, making it suitable for meetups, family reunions, and team outings.
• Screened Pavilion: A very nice screened-in pavilion is available, providing a comfortable and bug-protected space for food preparation, dining, and gathering.
• Water Access: Water sources are available, with one noted near the pavilion, convenient for various camping needs and potentially for fishing.
• Designated Parking: While large rigs may need to park closer to the gate, designated parking areas are available for vehicles.
• On-site Bathhouse: Recreation.gov indicates a new bathhouse has been built on site, offering essential facilities. (Note: Specific details on showers or flush toilets should be verified upon reservation as information can vary, but a bathhouse implies improved facilities over primitive pit toilets).
• Camp Host Presence: A dedicated and wonderful camp host is available on-site, providing assistance and ensuring a positive experience for campers.
• Grills and Picnic Tables: Provided at the site, enhancing outdoor cooking and dining capabilities for groups.
• Flat Tent Camping Areas: The camping area is flat, making it ideal for pitching tents, with some shade provided by trees.

• Exceptional Camp Host: A recurring highlight from visitor reviews is the presence of a "wonderful" and "very attentive" camp host. This personal touch significantly enhances the camping experience, providing assistance, local knowledge, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel truly cared for.
• Ideal for Group Gatherings: As a "Group Camping" site, River Forest is perfectly suited for larger gatherings such as family reunions, organizational meetups (like the senior women campers' meetup mentioned in a review), and team building events. The spaciousness and amenities are designed to accommodate multiple individuals comfortably.
• Screened-in Pavilion: A major convenience and luxury for Florida camping, the "very nice screened-in pavilion" offers a protected communal area. This is invaluable for meal preparation, dining, and socializing, especially in a state known for its insects, allowing groups to gather comfortably without being bothered by bugs.
• Proximity to Water for Activities: The campground's location near the St. Johns River means direct access to water-based recreation. Visitors can enjoy fishing (as indicated by the "water for fish" comment), potentially canoeing, or simply relaxing by the riverbank. This adds another layer of outdoor enjoyment to the camping experience.
• Authentic Florida Nature Experience: Situated within the Ocala National Forest, the campground provides an immersive natural environment. This includes the possibility of wildlife sightings, such as bears (as noted by visitors), which, while requiring awareness, also contribute to the authentic wilderness feel and an opportunity to observe Florida's diverse fauna.
• Positive Community Vibe: Reviews indicate a strong positive sentiment from groups who have utilized the campground, with comments like "one of the best camping trips we have ever done." This suggests a supportive and enjoyable atmosphere fostered by both the environment and the staff.
• Adaptable for Large Rigs: Despite the noted road conditions, the fact that "you can get a big rig in here" demonstrates the campground's capacity to accommodate various camping setups, making it versatile for different types of group travel.
• Secluded yet Accessible: While offering a feeling of being "in the forest," the campground is still within a reasonable drive from DeLand, balancing the desire for seclusion with convenient access for Floridian residents.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about River Forest Group Camping, please use the following contact details:

Address: 45700 River Forest Blvd, DeLand, FL 32720, USA

Phone: (352) 625-2520

Mobile Phone: +1 352-625-2520

It is recommended to call ahead for specific questions regarding group reservations, amenities, and current conditions.

For Floridians, River Forest Group Camping presents an outstanding and highly suitable option for their next outdoor group adventure or peaceful retreat. Its primary appeal lies in its designation as a group camping site, making it perfect for family reunions, club meetups, or any gathering that requires ample space and communal facilities. The "very nice screened-in pavilion" is an absolute game-changer for Florida camping, providing a comfortable, bug-free zone for eating, socializing, and activities, a feature keenly appreciated by anyone familiar with the state's natural environment. This facility alone elevates the group camping experience significantly.

The location within the expansive and diverse Ocala National Forest adds immense value. It offers locals a true immersion into Florida's unique wilderness, complete with opportunities for wildlife viewing (including bears, as noted by campers) and access to the St. Johns River for fishing and other water recreation. This proximity to authentic Florida nature, combined with the convenience of being near DeLand, means that residents don't have to travel far to feel truly "away from it all." The journey, even with some road imperfections, is a small price to pay for the tranquil and spacious environment that awaits.

Furthermore, the consistent praise for the "wonderful camp host" underscores a commitment to excellent customer service. This personal touch ensures that groups feel welcomed, supported, and can focus on enjoying their time together rather than worrying about logistical challenges. The positive feedback from groups who have described it as "one of the best camping trips we have ever done" speaks volumes about the overall quality and enjoyment provided.

In summary, River Forest Group Camping is an ideal choice for Floridians seeking a dedicated group camping experience. It offers the perfect blend of practical amenities like the pavilion and ample space, a truly natural setting within the Ocala National Forest, and the reassuring presence of attentive staff. For anyone in Florida looking to organize a memorable group outdoor event, or simply seeking a quiet yet well-equipped spot to enjoy nature with loved ones, River Forest Group Camping comes highly recommended.

River Forest Group Camping

45700 River Forest Blvd, DeLand, FL 32720, USA