Biking
Camping
Fishing
Hiking
Horseback Riding
Seasonal Hunting
Paddling
Timber management practices on Ralph E. Simmons Memorial State Forest are important to the restoration and maintenance of forest ecosystems and provide a variety of socio-economic benefits to Floridians. Longleaf pine is being reintroduced to restore the forest for the enjoyment of future generations. An aggressive prescribed burning program is in place to ensure that maximum benefits are attained in timber production.
Ralph E. Simmons Memorial State Forest offers visitors the scenic beauty of the St. Marys River, which forms the northern boundary of the forest and serves as the forest's primary water source. The river and two oxbow lakes along with numerous cypress stands, ponds and swamps provide an abundance of fish and serve as water sources for wildlife.
The forest features many excellent examples of natural communities, including longleaf pine/wiregrass, low pinelands, seepage slopes, herb bogs and ravines.
Fox, wild turkey, bobcat, gopher tortoise and otter are some of the wildlife frequently seen.
The forest provides many opportunities for resource-based recreation. The water resources and upland forest communities offer excellent wildlife viewing. Hiking, horseback riding and off-road bicycling are available on established trails and roads, except during hunting seasons (see information on hunting below). Our St. Marys River Trail qualifies for the Trailwalker Program.
Primitive campsites are located along the St. Marys River and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Access to these sites is available from the river only and requires no permit. During established hunting seasons (except small-game season), camping is not allowed at these sites.
Camping for organized groups is available by State Forest Use Authorization, which can be obtained from the Florida Forest Service at the Hilliard Work Center. During established hunting seasons, camping is reserved for hunters with a valid hunt permit. Primitive group camping is available with a basic shower on the west side of Scotts Landing Road. The cabin is located on the northeast side adjacent to the St. Marys River.
The forest is managed as a Wildlife Management Area by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Hunting is permitted during designated seasons for white-tailed deer, hogs, wild turkeys and small game. Hunting is restricted to only those individuals who hold a valid hunt permit. Other forest recreation activities, including horseback riding, are prohibited during established hunting seasons. Specific regulations and hunting season dates can be obtained at myfwc.com/hunting.
In keeping with its mission to protect and manage Florida's forest resources, the Florida Forest Service has developed rules that apply to all State Forest visitors. Find out more about State Forest fees and rules.
Proof of current negative Coggins test is required for all horses in all Florida State Forests.
Day use is from sunrise to sunset.
Ralph E. Simmons State Forest
3742 Clint Dr.
Hilliard, FL 32046-4905
(904) 845-4933 (Monday-Friday)
(904) 845-3597 (Saturday and Sunday)
Email Ralph E. Simmons State Forest
Passes are no longer available at the State Forest office. To purchase a pass or make a reservation, visit ReserveAmerica or call 1-877-879-3859.
Ralph E. Simmons Memorial State Forest is located in Nassau County, in northeastern Florida on the St. Marys River. If traveling from the town of Hilliard, go north on U.S. Highway 1 for 7 miles to the town of Boulogne. From Boulogne, go east on State Road 121/Lake Hampton Road.
The forest parking areas are located:
Total Acreage: 3,638
Counties: Nassau
Smart device mapping is possible and encouraged in the State Forests. Before visiting a forest, search for “PDF Maps” in the app store to find an app that works for you and download our State Forest map, which is georeferenced.
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This State Forest is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail.
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Contact:
Justin Rogers
Justin.Rogers@FDACS.gov
