Trail Overview
Mercer West, also known as Apalachicola National Forest Road 105, connects Mercer Trail at the east end and County Road 12 at the west end. It takes you through the southwest part of the Apalachicola National Forest along Camel Pond and gives you access to Camel Pond Recreation Area with Restrooms, a picnic area, and a beach to swim. The Camel Pond Campground offers 10 campsites, four with water and electric. The road conditions are a mixture of packed sand, loose sand, some deep holes that can turn into 1-foot deep mud holes after rainy days, and a few permanent Water Crossings. The road is always wide enough for two vehicles to pass. 4WD and high clearance are recommended. All vehicles must be street legal. Please be aware that the cellphone reception is weak. The Apalachicola National Forest is located in the eastern part of Florida's panhandle. It's home to some of the most unique animal and plant species in the world. Here, visitors can enjoy safe, family-friendly activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking, and trail-riding while surrounded by tranquil, diverse ecosystems.