How much does camping cost at Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp?

Camping fees at Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp first-come first-served or reservation?

Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All sites are primitive and available on a first-come, first-served basis, with no indication of designated walk-up sites.

What is the best time to visit Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp?

Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp is open No peak season dates are mentioned.. 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 Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp?

Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp?

Fire policies at Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp: No explicit fire policies stated; prescribed burns occur regularly.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp have?

Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp has 6 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp?

Yes, pets are allowed at Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp. 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 Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp?

Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp?

Popular activities at Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp

3.83

6 reviews

390 Holloway Rd , Florahome, Florida, 32140, United States

Peace & QuietSummer Destination

Featured in:Tent Camping Florida

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

135 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

No specific seasonal...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Etoniah Creek State Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

135 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

No specific seasonal...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Etoniah Creek State Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

No fees are explicitly stated for this primitive camping area. The site is likely free to use.

No paid fee categories listed.

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Reserve America

Provider

3863292552

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

390 Holloway Rd , Florahome, Florida, 32140, United States

Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp

390 Holloway Rd , Florahome, Florida, 32140, United States

Nearby places

Florahome: 10 minutes (approx.)

Palatka: 15 miles east

Keystone Heights: null

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies available near Florahome, FL

no specific details provided about grocery stores, fuel stations, or camping supplies.

Driving directionsIf coming from the East (Palatka) or the West (Keystone Heights) you need to take State Road 100 towards Florahome. Coming from the west (Florahome, FL)- Take State Road 100 east to Holloway Road. Holloway Road is across SR100 from Q.I. Roberts School. Turn north on Holloway Road for .75 miles to Quail Road. Turn east on Quail Road for .3 miles to North Creek Road. Turn south on N. Creek Road and travel for .95 miles. You will intersect here with West V Road. Head south on West V road (crossing over Etoniah Creek) for .9 miles to the power line. At the power line you will turn east for 20 YARDS and then make an immediate turn back to the north on East V Road. Take East V Road north for 1.5 miles to Green Camp Road. Turn on Green Camp Road and follow it for 1 mile to the Green Camp Primitive Camping Area. Coming from the east (Palatka, FL)- Take State Road 100 west to Holloway Road in Florahome. Holloway Road is across SR100 from Q.I. Roberts School. Turn north on Holloway Road for .75 miles to Quail Road. Turn east on Quail Road for .3 miles to North Creek Road. Turn south on N. Creek Road and travel for .95 miles. You will intersect here with West V Road. Head south on West V road (crossing over Etoniah Creek) for .9 miles to the power line. At the power line you will turn east for 20 YARDS and then make an immediate turn back to the north on East V Road. Take East V Road north for 1.5 miles to Green Camp Road. Turn on Green Camp Road and follow it for 1 mile to the Green Camp Primitive Camping Area.

Road access involves dirt and gravel roads with no paved sections, which may be difficult for low-clearance vehicles. Seasonal closures or prescribed burns can impact accessibility.

Weather at Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp

Current alert: Seasonal hunting and prescribed burns may impact camping availability. Campers should check dates before planning their visit.

Best Time to Camp at Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp

Fall delivers the most comfortable conditions, with daytime highs between mid-60s and mid-80s°F and noticeably lower humidity than summer. Trails dry out after summer rains, making hiking and biking more pleasant. Winter mornings are crisp, afternoons mild. Summer brings dramatic afternoon thunderstorms and high humidity. Spring and fall also bring migrating birds through this ecological corridor. Check for hunting dates and prescribed burns before visiting. Wearing blaze orange during hunting seasons is strongly advised.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall offers mid-60s to mid-80s temps and lower humidity; described as the most comfortable season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: No peak season dates are mentioned.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: No specific seasonal closures, but hunting dates and prescribed burns may impact accessibility.

About Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp

Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp sits within 8,000 acres of wilderness in Putnam County, offering six primitive tent sites for visitors seeking genuine backcountry conditions. There's no electricity, running water, or fees. What you get instead: vault toilets, bear lockers, and access to trails threading through pine flatwoods and floodplain swamps where three creeks carve through ancient sandy ridges.

Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp caters exclusively to primitive camping, with no modern facilities. It is suitable for self-reliant campers seeking a secluded experience in a natural setting.

Historical Significance

The forest functions as a living laboratory for fire-dependent ecosystems. Controlled burns here nurture the endangered Etonia Rosemary and other species that evolved to thrive after periodic fires. These aren't wildfires. They're carefully timed burns designed to maintain plant communities that have existed here for millennia. The experimental conservation work makes this a working demonstration of how Florida's rarest botanical communities survive.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the most comfortable conditions, with daytime highs between mid-60s and mid-80s°F and noticeably lower humidity than summer. Trails dry out after summer rains, making hiking and biking more pleasant. Winter mornings are crisp, afternoons mild. Summer brings dramatic afternoon thunderstorms and high humidity. Spring and fall also bring migrating birds through this ecological corridor. Check for hunting dates and prescribed burns before visiting. Wearing blaze orange during hunting seasons is strongly advised.

ElevationTrue to Florida's gentle topography, Etoniah Creek rests close to sea level, creating a landscape where subtle elevation changes tell dramatic stories. Even modest rises become islands of biodiversity, supporting different plant communities and offering slightly elevated views across the forest canopy. These minor undulations in the terrain create crucial variations in moisture and soil conditions that support the forest's remarkable diversity.

Natural Features and SceneryOver 8,000 acres of woodlands, lakes, and creeks including 819-acre George's Lake with over 400 feet of lake frontage, shallow creeks (Falling Branch Creek, Etonia Creek, Rice Creek) meandering through floodplain swamps and bottomland hardwoods, flat terrain with dense forests, sandhills, pine flatwoods, scrub, hardwoods, freshwater swamp, wetlands, tannic streams, and open fields.[1][2][3][4]

Geological RegionThe 8,000-acre tapestry of Etoniah Creek State Forest tells Florida's geological story through its diverse landscapes. Here, ancient sandy ridges alternate with water-carved lowlands, creating a mosaic of habitats shaped by millennia of seasonal flooding and drought. The three creeks—Falling Branch, Etonia, and Rice—have patiently carved their shallow channels through this terrain, their gentle currents creating ribbons of wetland habitat that support everything from towering bald cypresses to delicate wildflowers. This interplay of water and land, repeated over countless centuries, has sculpted a wilderness where floodplain swamps transition seamlessly into pine-studded uplands, and where every ecological niche tells part of Florida's natural heritage story.

Scenic ViewsViews include tall grass, forested areas, and occasional glimpses of wildlife such as red wolves, white-tailed deer, and butterflies according to user reviews.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or cabins are available. This is a primitive camping area.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit information is not provided.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to six guests per site.

Groups

Group camping details are not specified.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutSix primitive tent sites, each designed for a single tent and maximum six people. Layout is scattered rather than looped. No water or electricity at any site.

Reservation PlatformsPrimitive camping—no reservation system available.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are primitive and available on a first-come, first-served basis, with no indication of designated walk-up sites.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not available due to lack of reservation options.

Site SizeSites are designed for single tents. Maximum occupancy per site is 6 people.

PrivacyThe privacy level of individual campsites is not explicitly described, though the area is remote and likely offers a quiet and secluded experience.

Total Campsites6 campsites

Recommended SitesSites 001 through 006 are tent-only and accommodate up to six guests. Campers seeking solitude or wildlife viewing may find this area appealing.

Best CampsitesSix established primitive sites with picnic tables, fire rings with grates, and BBQ grills; no specific site recommendations from campers due to limited reviews.[1]

Amenities available

Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp provides minimal amenities in a primitive setting. The campground features a single vault toilet for sanitation needs, but there is no potable water, electricity, or lighting available. Campers are strongly advised to bring their own water and flashlights. There are no fire rings, picnic tables, dump stations, or camp stores on-site. Trash disposal and recycling options are not detailed. The campground is part of an 8,000-acre state forest, with emphasis on preserving the natural environment.

Food storage lockers

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

The campground and surrounding Etoniah Creek State Forest offer a variety of outdoor activities, emphasizing nature immersion. Activities include hiking, birding, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, hunting, photography, and picnicking. The Florida National Scenic Trail and the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail pass through the area, adding unique recreational opportunities.

Hiking

Hiking is a major activity, with a 7.5-mile trail offering diverse terrain such as sandhills, forests, and steep-banked streams. The trail also includes a spur leading to George's Lake. Visitors report seeing wildlife like white-tailed deer, butterflies, and potentially red wolves. The Florida National Scenic Trail and the Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail are nearby, providing additional hiking options.

Fishing

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears and red wolves. Seasonal hunting and prescribed burns also pose risks.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground.

Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are not provided; campers must use approved containers or store food in vehicles.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyNo explicit fire policies stated; prescribed burns occur regularly.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not specified.

Emergency ServicesClosest ranger station: Ranger Station, phone number: 3863292552. Emergency services location and details are not specified.

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

Water FeaturesGeorge's Lake and three creeks (Falling Branch Creek, Etonia Creek, Rice Creek) are nearby.

Cell CoverageNo information on cell phone reception or carriers.[1][2][3][4]

Trip Planning Tools

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

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

From Booking Sources

3.8

6 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground's primitive nature and its appeal to those seeking a quiet, natural getaway. Positive aspects include the well-maintained trails, opportunities for wildlife observation, and the peaceful environment. Some users also appreciate the forest's experimental use of fire for conservation.

Review Summaries

Based on 6 reviews

What Campers Love

Primitive camping surrounded by diverse natural habitats; opportunities for birding, wildlife viewing, and immersive forest experience; established sites with basic amenities.[1][4]

Based on 6 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of potable water, electricity, and signage for rare plant species were noted as drawbacks. Some users mentioned tall grass and the need for better trail maintenance in certain areas.

Based on 6 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The campground consists of six tent-only sites (001-006). Each site accommodates up to 6 people. Pets are allowed, but no water or sewer hookups are provided.

Based on 6 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Access via dirt roads like Holloway Road; bring bright flashlight as no lights or power; be bear aware—keep food in approved containers or locked vehicle and remove after eating; wear blaze orange...

Based on 6 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Visitors emphasize the forest's unique features like fire management efforts and wildlife throughout the year. Hunting seasons and prescribed burns may affect the experience.

Based on 6 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Was a very enjoyable experience. The trails are maintained decently, and the 7.5-mile trail is a good small hike.' - Wayne Clark 2. 'Keep in mind, a state forest is not a state park: it is...

Based on 6 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility features.

Based on 6 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed at all six campsites, and no specific complaints or highlights regarding pet policies were mentioned.

Based on 6 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Birders and hikers who want the Florida National Scenic Trail on their doorstep and don't mind hauling in every drop of water. The 7.5-mile loop through sandhills and floodplain swamps with a spur to George's Lake dock is the main draw, and fall is the clear sweet spot when humid

Skip if

No potable water on site means this only works if you're fully self-supported. Cell coverage is unknown and the access road is dirt, so anyone expecting a car-camping setup with hookups or a nearby camp store will be underprepared. Check hunting dates before going.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited

0.0

(3)

Iron Bridge Camp Shelter (Florida National Scenic Trail)

390 Holloway Road , Florahome, Florida, 32140, United States

Iron Bridge Camp Shelter sits deep in Etoniah Creek State Forest, accessible only by hiking the Florida National Scenic Trail. The camp has one site: an enclosed shelter with a sleeping loft and porch, plus space for primitive tent camping nearby. It's a rustic, self-reliant setup with no water or electricity, designed for through-hikers and backpackers comfortable with backcountry conditions.