APALACHICOLA NATIONAL FOREST
APALACHICOLA NATIONAL FOREST325 John Knox Rd
Tallahassee, Florida 32303
Phone:
904-942-9300
The Apalachicola National Forest offers water-based recreation such as boating and fishing along the Ochlockonee and Apalachicola Rivers, and swimming in the numerous lakes. Trails and roads accommodate hiking, mountain bike riding, horseback riding, and off road ATV and motorcycle riding. Primitive camping is allowed throughout the Forest; fee campsites provide restrooms and water, picnic tables and fire rings. Hunting for deer is the dominant activity in December and January. Off the beaten path, this Forest offers opportunities for solitude and reflection.
The fee areas on the Apalachicola National Forest are under the authority of the Recreation Fee Demonstration Program. This program allows 95% of the fees collected to remain on the Forest for use in maintaining or improving the site where it was collected. Fee payment is self-service, but is required and will be enforced.
Some recreational activities require a pass or permit. Please see Passes & Permits for more information. Check with your local Forest Service office for any special regulations that may be in effect, such as a seasonal fire ban.
Camping can be enjoyed during all seasons on the Apalachicola National Forest, although summer camping would be without air conditioning. None of the campgrounds have hook ups and generators may not be run after 10pm. Be aware that at certain times of the year, due to high fire danger, open fires may not allowed. Visitors may stay a maximum of 14 days within a 30-day period, in one location, except during hunting season. Campsites are available on a first come, first served basis; there are no reservations. Pets are allowed, but must be restrained or on a leash.
The Apalachicola National Forest has developed and dispersed camping opportunities. Only developed campgrounds have fees. There are no group campgrounds or cabins on the Apalachicola National Forest.
There are many places to access water on the Apalachicola National Forest. They range from easily accessible concrete ramps to narrow dirt clearings. There are some free and some fee boat ramps.
The rivers on the Apalachicola National Forest are best suited to small boats with and without motors. The lakes are limited to small boats with electric trolling motors, and non-motorized boats, such as canoes and kayaks. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulates water vessels and should be consulted for safety requirements, registration, and other regulations. Be considerate of those who come after you. Carry out your trash. Please leave flowers and cypress knees for others to enjoy.
For canoers and kayakers, there is no whitewater here. Rivers are kept in their natural condition. Each has its own characteristics. You can usually cover 2.5 miles per hour including periodic rest stops. In rivers with obstructions, you may only move 1.5 miles per hour. You may have to duck under low hanging tree branches or lift the canoe over partly submerged logs.
Private canoe and kayak rentals are available in Tallahassee, Woodville, Sopchoppy, and along the Wakulla River outside the Forest.