
VOLUSIA COUNTY, FL - Nestled within the serene expanse of Lake George State Forest in Volusia County, Florida, the River Road Campground invites nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a truly rustic camping experience. Set against the picturesque St. Johns River backdrop, this campground offers a unique opportunity to connect with the great outdoors. Adjacent to the campground lies the expansive Lake George State Forest, a protected conservation area that stretches over an impressive 21,176 acres in the northwestern region of Volusia County. This diverse forest is a sanctuary for various ecosystems, making it a haven for wildlife and plant life. The campground's close proximity to Lake George, the state's second-largest lake, and the winding St. Johns River enhances its allure, offering visitors a wealth of stunning natural vistas and many outdoor adventures to explore.
The River Road Campground provides basic amenities for campers:
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings
- Grills
- Non-potable water
- Portable toilets
Campers can expect a quiet and peaceful environment at River Road Campground:
- Affordable rates for the amenities provided
- Rustic camping experience in a natural forest setting
- Opportunity for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife viewing
Reservations for River Road Campground are available through the ReserveAmerica website. The campground operates on a seasonal basis, typically from November to April. Things to Consider:
- Limited Amenities: As a primitive campground, River Road offers minimal amenities. Pack all necessary supplies, including water, food, and camping gear.
- Wildlife: Florida has various wildlife, including insects, snakes, and other animals. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid encounters.
- Weather: Florida weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for rain, wind, and other weather conditions.

Here are some things you can do at Lake George State Forest:
- Hike or bike the Bluffton Nature Trail, which leads you through upland habitats above the Johns River basin.
- Visit the River Road Campground, which offers campsites, cabins, and a swimming pool.
- Go fishing in Lake George, home to various fish, including bass, crappie, and catfish.
- Go hunting for deer, turkey, and other game animals.
- Go horseback riding on the forest's many trails.

Campers can expect a quiet and peaceful environment at River Road Campground:
- Affordable rates for the amenities provided
- Rustic camping experience in a natural forest setting
- Opportunity for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife viewing

History
The area has a rich history dating back thousands of years:
- Native American tribes, including the Timucua, inhabited the region, leaving behind archaeological sites such as the Bluffton Mound and Midden.
- European settlers later used the land for timber harvesting, naval stores production, and cattle grazing.
- In the 1930s, much of the land was reforested with longleaf and slash pine.
- Severe wildfires in 1998 damaged nearly half the forest, leading to subsequent restoration efforts.

Management and Conservation
Lake George State Forest is managed by the Florida Forest Service and plays a crucial role in regional conservation efforts:
- It forms part of two Wildlife Management Areas overseen by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
- The forest is a key component of a wildlife corridor critical for species like the Florida black bear.
- Along with nearby protected lands, it provides over 20 miles of contiguous habitat along Lake George and the St. Johns River.

The forest's ecosystem supports a rich array of wildlife, including:
- Florida black bears
- Bald eagles
- Sandhill cranes
- White-tailed deer
- Wild turkeys
- Gopher tortoises


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This forest is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail as well as the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway. |







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These campsites offer minimal amenities, with each site featuring a fire ring and picnic table. There are no electrical hookups or water spigots at the individual campsites. |

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The campground is situated close to several trails, including the Bluffton Nature Trail, which takes you through various habitats showcasing the diverse flora and fauna of the region. |









- Address: 5458 U.S. 17, De Leon Springs, FL 32130
- Website: https://www.fdacs.gov/Divisions-Offices/Licensing/Regional-Offices
- River Road Campground: https://floridastateforests.reserveamerica.com/camping/river-road-campground-lake-george-state-forest/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=FLFS&parkId=1120152
- Lake George State Forest Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_George_State_Forest
- Lake George Trail Sections: https://floridabirdingtrail.com/trail/trail-sections/east-section/lake-george-state-forest/