Primitive Group Camping

Primitive group camping is available for organized groups. An organized group is six or more people camping together, sponsored by, affiliated with and/or members of a recognized, registered, non-profit organization. They may or may not be members of an association, but are under the sponsorship of a recognized community organization, such as a church, benevolent or civic service club. One chaperone 21 years of age or older is required per 10 children.

Capacity and amenities vary by park, but most accommodate at least 20 and provide picnic tables and a ground fire ring. The fees for group camping vary from $1 to $5 per person, per night. Reservations for primitive group camps must be made directly with the individual park, up to 11 months in advance.

Priority is given to youth groups (i.e., an organized group in which at least half of the individuals are younger than 18 years-old) in the primitive group camps. Adult groups (I.e., an organized group in which at least half of the individuals are 18 years of age or older) may make reservations up to 30 days in advance with the expectation that the reservations will not be superseded and canceled because of late reservation request by a youth group.

The park closes at sundown. If arrival is anticipated after sundown a leader or chaperone must call before 5 p.m. on the day of arrival to obtain the gate combination. All campers must be set up before quiet time at 11 p.m. Check-out time is 1 p.m.

Pets are allowed in most primitive group camps.

View Primitive Group Camping Parks