How much does camping cost at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest?

Camping fees at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest range from $25-$40/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest first-come first-served or reservation?

Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest?

Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest is open The source materials do not specify peak season dates.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest?

Yes, Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest?

Fire policies at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest: The source materials do not specify fire policies.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest?

Cell phone service at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest have?

Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest has 5 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest?

Yes, pets are allowed at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest?

Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest?

Popular activities at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest include Hiking, Fishing, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest

4.57

23 reviews

PO Box 174 , Welaka, Florida, 32193, United States

Scenic ViewsPeace & Quiet

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

85 ft

Price

$25 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Welaka State Forest Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

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Only 5 sites — this campground fills fast. Set up a free alert.

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

85 ft

Price

$25 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Welaka State Forest Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

Get Directions

Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest

$25.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees depend on the type of site and facilities reserved. Pull-through RV sites with water and electric hookups range between $25 and $40.

Standard Site Fee$25.00

Hookup Site Fee$40.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.57

Top-Rated

Based on 23 reviews

41 Google reviews

"Overall, reviews highlight the campground's tranquility, well-maintained facilities, and suitability for equestrian activities. Guests praised the spacious campsites and clean amenities, though some noted issues with trail marking and service."

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Campground Map

PO Box 174 , Welaka, Florida, 32193, United States

Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest

PO Box 174 , Welaka, Florida, 32193, United States

Nearby places

Palatka, FL: Approximately 25-minute drive

Satsuma, FL: Approximately 6.6 miles

Crescent City, FL: Approximately 8.4 miles.

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are likely available in Palatka, FL, approximately 25 minutes away. Specific stores are not listed in the source materials.

Driving directionsFrom the Palatka - At the intersection of US 17 and CR 309 in Satsuma, FL turn south on CR 309. Continue south on CR 309 for 6.6 miles. You will see the Welaka State Forest Office on your left. Turn left at the forest office and follow the service road in front of the office for 0.6 miles to the equestrian area. From the south (Deland) - At the intersection of US 17 and CR 308 in Crescent City turn left (west) on CR 308. Continue on CR 308 for 8.4 miles to CR 309. Turn right (north) on CR 309 and travel for 3.2 miles. You will see the Welaka State Forest Office on your right. Turn right at the forest office and follow the service road in front of the office for 0.6 miles to the equestrian area.

Accessible year-round from paved roads. There are no seasonal closures mentioned. The final stretch involves a service road for 0.6 miles, which appears to be manageable for all vehicles, including RVs.

Best Time to Camp at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest

Fall delivers the sweet spot: mid-60s to low-80s during the day, 50s at night, with lower humidity and fewer bugs. Trail rides and fishing get easier when the heat breaks. Summer brings afternoon thundershowers and sticky air. Winter holidays see moderate crowds, but fall stays quieter.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 21% in FL

Fall called 'sweet spot' with milder temps, lower humidity and better trail/fishing conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: The source materials do not specify peak season dates.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.
Current Alerts: Prescribed burns are conducted, but they are stated not to impact campground use.

About Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest

Equestrian Campground at Welaka State Forest offers five spacious pull-through RV sites with cement pads, plus primitive tent sites spread out enough to feel private. Fees run $25-40 per night. Horses are the focus here, with well-maintained stalls and practice arenas, but the campground works just as well for hikers and anglers exploring the 2,000-acre forest.

The campground supports equestrian, primitive, RV, and tent camping. It accommodates group activities and also offers clean and comfortable cabin lodging.

Historical Significance

The Bartram Trail runs through the forest. Naturalist William Bartram traveled these areas in the 1770s, documenting flora and fauna across the Southeast.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the sweet spot: mid-60s to low-80s during the day, 50s at night, with lower humidity and fewer bugs. Trail rides and fishing get easier when the heat breaks. Summer brings afternoon thundershowers and sticky air. Winter holidays see moderate crowds, but fall stays quieter.

ElevationThe campground rests at a gentle elevation characteristic of North Florida's rolling terrain, providing excellent drainage for camping areas and creating subtle vistas throughout the property.

Natural Features and SceneryThe forest encompasses over 2,000 acres of diverse ecosystems including sandhills, open pine savannas with longleaf pines and wiregrass, and river swamps along the eastern bank of the St. Johns River. Mud Spring contributes 13,750 gallons per hour of clear spring water. The east side features Florida's largest population of gopher tortoises.[1][2]

Geological RegionDiscover the ecological wonders of Welaka State Forest's 2,000-acre wilderness, where diverse ecosystems tell the story of Florida's natural heritage. The eastern reaches of the forest showcase spectacular sandhills and expansive pine savannas, where fire-adapted longleaf pines tower above seas of wiregrass - a rare and beautiful ecosystem that once covered millions of acres across the Southeast. This unique landscape, shaped by centuries of natural processes, transitions into mysterious river swamps and hardwood hammocks, creating a mosaic of habitats that support an incredible array of plant and animal life.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

The source does not specify check-in times.

Check-out

The source does not specify check-out times.

Stay Limit

The source does not specify a maximum consecutive stay limit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Official sources and user reviews do not specify the exact number.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutFive pull-through RV sites feature cement pads, water and electric hookups, no sewer (bring a portable tank). Primitive tent sites are well spaced for privacy. Horse stalls and riding arenas are integrated into the campground.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are handled through Reserve America.

Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground appears to allow walk-up reservations, as one review mentions booking last-minute and finding a space.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be made through Reserve America. Specific cancellation guidelines are not outlined in the material.

AccessibilityThe campground offers pull-through sites suitable for large RVs and trailers, and the equestrian facilities are spacious and well-equipped, making it accessible for horse owners. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is not explicitly detailed.

Site SizeThe five pull-through RV sites feature cement pads and are described as spacious. Primitive sites are also available and well spaced out, offering privacy.

PrivacyPrimitive sites are spacious and offer a significant degree of privacy, as noted by one reviewer: "Only a handful of spots but they are spaced out and you have a lot of privacy.

Total Campsites5 campsites

Recommended SitesReviews suggest choosing pull-through sites for larger rigs and RVs. Tent sites offer privacy and space.

Need help booking Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest?

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ReserveAmerica Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

A range of recreational activities is available including horseback riding, hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography. The campground is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, making it appealing to birdwatchers.

Hiking

Fishing

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential dangers include venomous snakes such as pygmy rattlesnakes and coral snakes, ants, gators near marsh ponds, and high humidity.

Active AlertsPrescribed burns are conducted, but they are stated not to impact campground use.

Fire PolicyThe source materials do not specify fire policies.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not mentioned in the authoritative or user sources.

Emergency ServicesWelaka State Forest Office, located near the campground entrance; additional emergency services likely available in nearby Palatka, approximately 25 minutes away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling details are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.

Water FeaturesClose to Mud Springs trail and spring, which is described as beautiful. It also lies near St. Johns River.

Camp HostSeveral reviews mention friendly camp hosts, but no specific contact details are provided.

Weather at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.6

23 reviews

Top-Rated

Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, reviews highlight the campground's tranquility, well-maintained facilities, and suitability for equestrian activities. Guests praised the spacious campsites and clean amenities, though some noted issues with trail marking and service.

Review Summaries

Based on 23 reviews

What Campers Love

Equestrian-focused with horse stalls, arenas, and trails; diverse ecosystems and wildlife; modern amenities in a natural setting near St. Johns River.[1][2][3]

Based on 23 reviews

Common Concerns

Criticisms focused on poorly marked trails and isolated maintenance issues. One guest pointed out, "Blue trail markers just dead ended into fences." Another said, "The round pen is overgrown with...

Based on 23 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Prescribed burns occur periodically but do not impact campground use; campground may close during Tropical Storm or Hurricane Warnings in Putnam County. Book up to 11 months in advance via...

Based on 23 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall and winter are recommended for cooler weather and reduced humidity, as noted by one guest: "Go in the fall or winter time; it will be much cooler." Summer can be humid and buggy, with one guest...

Based on 23 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Showers and bathrooms were clean, but very strong bleach smelling." - Gypsy Traveler "Great tenting pads and RV hookups. Inexpensive and close to hiking and fishing." - BOXCAR HIKES "Beautiful...

Based on 23 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The five pull-through sites with cement pads, water, and electric hookups are highly praised for their spaciousness and suitability for large RVs. Primitive sites are well spaced and provide...

Based on 23 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, as noted by several guests. One mentioned, "Dog friendly," while another advised keeping pets on a leash due to potential snake hazards.

Based on 23 reviews

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Welaka Primitive Campsites

PO Box 174, Welaka, Florida, 32193, United States

Welaka Primitive Campsites sit deep in Welaka State Forest, accessible by a 2-mile hike or boat. The two primitive sites serve tent campers willing to haul gear in exchange for seclusion. Reviews warn of occasional closures without notice, so check forest status before the trek.

Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest

Real-Time Availability

Quick Facts

Real-Time Availability

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

What Campers Say

Campground Map

Best Time to Camp at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest

Planning Tips

About Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest?

Amenities available

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Weather at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Need help planning your trip?

What Campers Say

Best Time to Camp at Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Equestrian Campground Welaka State Forest?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

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