Recreation guide to District lands
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Ralph E. Simmons Memorial State Forest
Size:
3,638 acres.
Location:
Along the south bank of the St. Marys River, on the Florida-Georgia border, northeast of the town of Boulogne in Nassau County.
Description:
The Ralph E. Simmons Memorial State Forest ensures preservation of 6.7 miles of the St. Marys River shoreline. Significant habitats include extensive natural sandhill communities in the St. Marys River Basin. The conservation area serves as a refuge for a number of listed plants. Visitors may spot toothache grass, orchids, purple baldwina, Bartram’s ixia and pitcher plant.
Wildlife viewing:
Otters, gopher tortoises, deer, bobcats, turkeys and ribbon snakes all make the conservation area their home.
Recreational activities:
- Seasonal hunting, fishing, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, primitive camping (only at designated sites) and wildlife viewing. more info
- Boating and canoeing opportunities are available on the St. Marys River.
- Group camping requires a permit from the Florida Forest Service. Other primitive campsites are first come, first served and do not require a permit.
- View hunting information.
Restrictions: more info
- Motorized vehicles are not permitted except during designated hunting periods.
- Hunt permit holders may camp at group campsite only. Please contact the Florida Forest Service for a camping permit.
Access:
Vehicle access from U.S. 1/U.S. 301; go east on Lake Hampton Road. Informational kiosks are located at the parking areas. Parking areas are on Lake Hampton Road and Penny Haddock Road. A boat ramp is available at Scotts Landing Road.
For more information:
The Florida Forest Service is the lead manager of this state forest. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission assists the Forest Service in managing wildlife and enforcing rules. Call the Florida Forest Service at (904) 845-3597.
