Doe Lake Group Camp

Area Status: Open

The Doe Lake Group Camp is centered around a classic 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps dining hall that has been historically restored. This beautiful building sits atop a grassy hill overlooking the clear waters of Doe Lake. Restoration efforts are the result of an agreement between the Friends of Doe Lake and the Forest Service.  A bath house, including showers, was built in the same architectural style.

Boating

  • Low-powered boats, canoes and kayaks can be launched from an unimproved boat ramp. Open to visitors under a group reservation only.

Camping

  • Doe Lake is a designated group campsite with a variety of activities on site. Centered around a historic lodge with a large group kitchen, it's an ideal place for major outdoor gatherings of up to 250 people. A maximum stay limit of 14 consecutive days is allowed within a 30-day period.

Fishing

  • Launch a canoe or low-powered boat and drop a line in the middle of Doe Lake for an afternoon of fishing. Bank fishing is possible along parts of the shoreline as well. Open to visitors under a group reservation only.

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.

At a Glance

Current Conditions: Expect full recreation sites during weekends. Have backup plans. Sites may close when capacity is reached.
Operational Hours: Check in: 3 p.m.
Check out: 11 a.m.

Host on site.
Reservations: Reservations are required. They may be made by phone at 1-877-444-6777 or online at Recreation.gov.  
Fees: $350 per night
Usage: Medium
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.
Closest Towns: Weirsdale and Altoona via SR 42, Ocklawaha via Moss Bluff.
Information Center: Doe Lake is a favorite of equestrian groups thanks to amenities provided by volunteers from local riding clubs.

General Information

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 mile and bear right. Turn right after 0.2 mile into the recreation area.

From Eustis: Follow CR 452 north for 11 miles. Turn left onto SR 42. After 1.6 mile, 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 mile and bear right. Turn right after 0.2 mile into the recreation area.


Accessibility:

Bathhouse is accessible.


General Notes:

Amenities

  • Accessible bathhouse
  • Camping (tent and RVs) no hookups
  • Drinking water 
  • Flush toilets
  • Parking
  • Picnic tables

Licenses and Passes

Boating 

  • Boating in the National Forests in Florida is regulated by the state of Florida. Please visit our boating web page before you grab your personal floatation device and head out onto the water.  

Camping – Dispersed/Primitive Camping 

  • Many people enjoy this solitude and primitive experience, but knowing your limits, skills and abilities is a must. Following certain rules and regulations will help make your experience safer and ensure settings remain unspoiled.  

Fishing 


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Group Camping

Recreation areas with activity Group Camping:

Lake and Pond Fishing

Recreation areas with activity Lake and Pond Fishing:

Horse Camping

Recreation areas with activity Horse Camping:

Horse Riding

Recreation areas with activity Horse Riding:

Boating - Motorized

Recreation areas with activity Boating - Motorized:

Boating - Non-Motorized

Recreation areas with activity Boating - Non-Motorized:

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Latitude : 
29.04249905

  Longitude : 
-81.82085588