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 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.