Buck Lake Conservation Area SJRWMD

Drive-in tent-only campsite Buck Lake Conservation Area is the most ecologically diverse property in the District’s South Central Region. It also has some very unique inland salt flats along the St. Johns River floodplain that are relics of an ancient saltwater past when sea levels were much higher. The property features seasonal hunting, hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, fishing, wildlife viewing and primitive tent camping. An unimproved boat launch offers access to Buck Lake with a canoe, kayak or small boat. Located on the west side of Buck Lake near the boat launch and observation tower, the drive-in campsite is small and allows a maximum of 15 people with very limited vehicular access (maximum two vehicles). Reservations are required and must be made at least 48 hours in advance and may be made up to 90 days in advance. The campsite is tent-only and is equipped with a fire ring, benches, pitcher pump, grill and two picnic tables. There are no restroom facilities. Recreational vehicles (including but not limited to motorhomes, camper vans, truck campers, pop-up campers, or any trailer or vehicle with sleeping quarters) are not allowed at the campsite or parked overnight on District lands. All vehicles at the campsite must be listed on the reservation and vehicle permit. Vehicle make, model and license plate number of vehicles (maximum two) are required when making the reservation. Campers bringing a trailered boat must include the boat trailer license plate number on the reservation and it must be listed on the permit. Important to know about camping at Buck Lake: The campsite can be damp so users may wish to set up their tent on a tarp or other waterproof barrier. Camping in the observation tower is prohibited. Camp only in the designated campsite. Many trails offer no shade or shelter, so users should prepare for sun, potentially excessive heat and/or sudden thunderstorms. Because this property is a Wildlife Management Area, camping is not allowed during hunting seasons. For more information about hunting, visit myfwc.com/recreation/cooperative/buck-lake . For more information about Buck Lake Conservation Area, visit www.sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation/buck-lake/ . Check-in: No earlier than 1 p.m. Check-out: No later than 11 a.m. Maximum length of stay: 7 consecutive days Maximum number of vehicles allowed: 2 (both must be listed on vehicle permit and include makes, models, colors and license plate numbers) Note, the reserved camper may bring a boat and does not require a day-use permit, but vehicles and boat trailers must be listed on the reservation and parked at the campsite, not at the launch area.