Perched atop a grassy hill overlooking the clear, tranquil waters of Doe Lake, Doe Lake Group Camp offers a unique combination of historic charm and outdoor adventure in Florida. Centered around a beautifully restored 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) dining hall, this group campsite provides an idyllic setting for equestrian enthusiasts and large gatherings alike. The efforts of the Friends of Doe Lake, in partnership with the Forest Service, have ensured that this historic lodge retains its original allure while offering modern conveniences for campers.
A Historic Lodge in the Heart of Nature
The centerpiece of Doe Lake Group Camp is the historic lodge, which has been carefully restored to its former glory. With its large group kitchen and stunning views, the lodge is perfect for major outdoor events, accommodating up to 250 people. The architectural style of the lodge, echoed in the adjacent bathhouse, preserves the legacy of the CCC while providing modern amenities, including showers for campers. The facility's design pays homage to its storied past while serving as a functional and comfortable base for contemporary visitors.
Equestrian Trails and Outdoor Activities
Doe Lake Group Camp is more than just a scenic location—it’s a gateway to outdoor adventures, especially for equestrian campers. The LAM Equestrian Trail begins at Doe Lake and stretches northward for 34 miles, following the path of the Ocklawaha River toward Eureka. This trail offers a diverse and engaging experience for horseback riders, with the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area from the back of your horse. Primitive camping is permitted along the trail, allowing for an immersive, multi-day journey through Florida’s stunning landscapes, though it's important to note that this is restricted during hunting season.
For those staying at Doe Lake Group Camp, the campsite provides a secure and comfortable environment for both horses and riders. You must be part of the group renting the facility to camp here with your horse, ensuring privacy and a focused equestrian experience. Whether you're planning a large gathering or seeking a unique horse camping adventure, Doe Lake Group Camp offers a combination of history, natural beauty, and outdoor excitement that’s hard to match.
Plan Your Equestrian Getaway
Doe Lake Group Camp is not just a campsite; it's a destination steeped in history and surrounded by nature's beauty. With its historic lodge, expansive group facilities, and access to miles of scenic equestrian trails, it’s the perfect setting for your next major outdoor event or horse camping adventure. The maximum stay limit of 14 consecutive days within a 30-day period ensures that the natural environment is preserved for future visitors while giving you ample time to explore all that Doe Lake has to offer.
Make your reservations today and experience the unique blend of history, community, and equestrian adventure at Doe Lake Group Camp. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or seeking a serene escape with your horse, Doe Lake is the ideal spot to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
Directions:
Doe Lake Group Camp is between Moss Bluff and Umatilla. Access is via unimproved roads.
From Ocala: Drive east 11 miles on SR 40 to Forest Corners. Turn right (south) on CR314-A. After about nine miles you'll pass through the blinker at Moss Bluff. Make the next major right at an old country store. Passing entrances for Sunnyhill Restoration Area on the left, you'll come to FR 14 (Cross Rd or Big Scrub Rd) after 3.6 miles. Turn left onto this unimproved forest road. Continue 0.9 miles and bear right. Turn right after 0.2 miles into the recreation area.
From Eustis: Follow CR 452 north for 11 miles. Turn left onto SR 42. After 1.6 miles, turn right at Buck & Doe's Store. Continue 4.1 miles north to FR 14. Turn right onto this unimproved forest road. Continue 0.9 miles and bear right. Turn right after 0.2 miles into the recreation area.
Doe Lake Campground offers the following facilities and amenities:
- Equestrian trails
- Fire Pit
- Grills/Fire Ring
- Water Hookup
- Picnic Table
- Accessible bathhouse
- Camping (tent and RVs) no hookups
- Drinking water
- Flush toilets
- Parking
Horseback Riding and Primitive Camping
The LAM Equestrian Trail starts at Doe Lake and extends north for 34 miles, paralleling the Ocklawaha River, towards Eureka. Primitive camping is permitted along the trail except during hunting season. You must be a part of the group renting this group recreation area to camp here with your horse.
Cost Details:
- $350 per night
Restrictions:
- The maximum number of people allowed at one time is 250.
- All Ocala National Forest campgrounds allow pets, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and are not permitted in designated swimming and picnicking areas.
- There is a maximum stay limit of 14 consecutive days in a 30-day period
Notes:
- Pets are not allowed inside buildings
- Bands and DJs are permitted
- Alcohol is permitted
- Off-road vehicles are not permitted
- The reservation holder is responsible for cleaning/straightening up the Doe Lake dining hall, kitchen and bathrooms, main bathhouse, and the grounds prior to departure.
- Sleeping overnight is prohibited in the dining hall.
- The entrance gate is to be closed/locked at all times for the safety of visitors, volunteers, and the facility.
- Check-in time is no earlier than 3:00 p.m.; check-out time is no later than 11:00 a.m. We cannot accommodate early arrivals.
- If it is your intent to rent an RV or trailer from a third-party entity, please note that the USDA Forest Service does not allow RV or trailer rentals to be pre-placed and/or delivered to the recreation area. The Reservation holder must drive the RV or trailer to the recreation area as it is their sole responsibility and alleviates the FS from any liability.
- Any commercial business that operates on federal land is required to have a special use permit.
- Reservations only; no walk-ins.
- For campground inquiries, please call: 352-625-2520
- Reservations are required. They may be made by phone at 1-877-444-6777 or online at Recreation.gov.
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
Ocklawaha, Florida - Sunnyhill Preservation
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Doe Lake Campground does require reservations for overnight accommodations. Please visit their page here on Top Horse Trails - Doe Lake Campground for more information