Lake Shore Group Camp
National Forests in Florida
Lake Shore Group Campground sits on the north shore of Fore Lake in Ocala National Forest. It is a favorite for scout, church and civic groups, as well as large families and reunions.
14 day stay limit in a 30 day period in ALL Ocala National Forest Campgrounds
Lake Shore Group Camp is for tent camping, however RVs are allowed in the small parking area. The site can accommodate up to 50 guests and there are campsites in the shade and in the sun, all within sight of the lake. The centerpiece of the facility is the large accessible picnic shelter, perfect for group gatherings. A group grill, picnic tables and a restroom with showers and flush toilets are available.
The lake is situated in the historic community of Scrambletown, which has a store.
Need to Know
- Fishing within 50 yards of a boat ramp or area designated for swimming is prohibited.
- Swimming or being in a body of water within 100 feet of a boat ramp is prohibited.
- This location is a group-use campground and is operated accordingly by the USDA Forest Service. If using this location for an event, such as a wedding, you will need to bring your own chairs, tables, and other items. Please contact the Ocala National Forest district office at 352-625-2520 listed below for location and specific questions.
- No electricity, water or sewer hookups
- Alligators live in the lake; swim at your own risk
- No gasoline motor boats permitted on the lake
- No off-road vehicles allowed except on designated trails only
- This facility requires a combination to the entrance gate
Check in is at 3:00pm and Check out is at 11:00am
- Bears and raccoons frequent the area; all food must be kept in approved containers
- Entrance gate is to be closed/locked at all times for safety of visitors, volunteers and facility.
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. 36 CFR 261.10 (K)(L)
- Click here for more information about Ocala National Forest
- Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.
Natural Features
Located in north central Florida, the Ocala National Forest spans four counties and 383,000 acres. It is the southernmost and oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River and protects the world's largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest.
Lined by marshes, the 12-acre Fore Lake is home to many species of birds. The surrounding landscape is forested with saw palmetto and oak trees.
Nearby Attractions
The Ocala National Forest is notable for its extensive off-road trail system catering to both ATV enthusiasts and Jeeps, as well as being a traditional destination for deer hunters. These opportunities are available within a short drive.
Recreation
Fore Lake is an excellent spot for birding. Visitors can also picnic and fish along the shore. Campers who wish to venture out into the water can launch their electric-motor boats, canoes and kayaks from the facility's boat ramp.
Swimming is allowed, but campers should be aware that there are alligators in this lake.
Contact Information
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8442 N.E 147TH AVENUE ROAD SILVER SPRINGS FL 34488
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 352-625-2520
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From I-75, west of Ocala, take exit 352 onto State Route 40 east. Continue for 10 miles to County Road 314. Turn left on 314 and go 6 miles. Turn left onto 147th Avenue Road and look for the Lake Shore sign and entrance on left.
Available Campsites
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