Camping cabins near Hilliard, Florida provide travelers with a gateway to northeast Florida's unique coastal plain ecosystem, where elevation rarely exceeds 30 feet above sea level. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often reaching the 90s, while winters remain mild with occasional cold snaps in the 40s. The region's proximity to both the Atlantic Ocean and Okefenokee Swamp creates diverse lodging options within 45 minutes of Hilliard's small-town setting.
What to do
Explore Okefenokee Swamp: 30 minutes from Hilliard. The swamp offers kayaking, wildlife viewing, and guided boat tours. At Okefenokee Pastimes Cabins and Campground, visitors appreciate the natural setting: "Located right across George Highway 23 from the entrance to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, this is easy access to the facilities at the refuge," notes Joel R.
Enjoy water activities at Crooked River: 35 minutes east. Crooked River State Park Campground features river access, fishing, and boat rentals. "The park was great and we saw lots of wildlife including, alligators, raccoon, deer, snakes, and an owl. There's nothing around and the closest store is about 20 miles," shares Angela M.
Visit Cumberland Island: Day trip option. Take the ferry from St. Marys to explore undeveloped beaches and historic ruins. "Close to historic St Marys and ferry to Cumberland Island and about a 45 minute drive to Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island for a nice day trip," reports Cathy C.
Try miniature golf: Family activity. Several parks in the area maintain courses for guests. "There are lots of things for the kids to do such as swimming, water slide, playground, mini golf," says Kelsey about the Jacksonville North-St. Marys KOA.
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: Perfect for stargazing. Several area campgrounds offer minimal light pollution for astronomy. "Dark sky approved you can see all of the stars at night," mentions Kayla B. about Stephen C. Foster State Park Campground.
Complimentary breakfast options: Money-saving perk. Some cabin properties include morning meals with your stay. "Free breakfast and super friendly staff. Would stay there again in a heart beat!" shares Sherrie K. about Jacksonville North KOA.
Beach access: Within driving distance. Little Talbot Island State Park Campground offers ocean proximity. "A short stroll over the dunes on a well marked path leads a beautiful untouched beach and driftwood. About 5 miles of packed sand made an easy walk. Take your kite!" recommends Denise O.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple locations. Both freshwater and saltwater options exist within a short drive. "Nice walking trails, plenty of playgrounds and very nice boat ramp and mini golf," notes Cathy C. about Crooked River State Park.
What you should know
Airport noise affects some campgrounds. Properties near Jacksonville may experience flight patterns. At Pecan Park RV Resort, "This is a state-of-the-art RV destination, easily accessed by exiting I-95 and driving westward for less than a minute," explains Stuart K., who also notes: "The park is very close to the air port so there were planes flying over all the time but it wasn't bad."
Cell service varies widely by location. The more remote properties may have limited connectivity. "No cell service and closest gas station is about 20 miles from park," reports Lindsey H. about Stephen C. Foster State Park.
Bug protection is essential: Prepare accordingly. The coastal and swamp areas attract insects year-round. "The bugs are enthusiastic so if you're not ready to bathe in DEET, you will pay the price," warns G F. about Laura S Walker State Park Campground.
Site sizes and privacy vary significantly. Research specific site numbers before booking. "Our site was very unlevel thanks to tree roots. How dare they grow there. Our site did not have any room in the back and it was oddly placed with two other sites," shares Lorilee S. about Laura S Walker State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Important amenity. Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. "We had so much fun camping here for the weekend with our family. The staff was absolutely delightful. Very clean with lots of fun activities like mini golf, pool, jumping pad and a dog run for your pet," notes Susan R. from Jacksonville North KOA.
Swimming options: Lakes and pools. Flamingo Lake RV Resort offers water recreation for kids. "Flamingo lake is a blast, most notably for the inflatable slides. The kids go absolutely crazy and can't get enough of the water park area," shares Sean B.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs. Several parks offer wildlife learning experiences. "The rangers were excellent during the nature education. We truly enjoyed touching and learning about local wildlife. While exploring, we even found a new turtle nest!" explains Tiffany C. about Crooked River State Park.
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness. Teach children about alligators and other local wildlife before arrival. "There is a big lake with a swimming beach dispute signs everywhere warning of alligators!" cautions Joel R. about Laura S Walker State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bring blocks. Many area campgrounds have uneven terrain. "We paid for a monthly sport for 860 a month including electric and cable. By far the nicest rv resort we have been to," says Kurtess R. about Flamingo Lake RV Resort, though noting "We put our name on the list to be moved and we were there for a while on a spot near the free way that we didn't like."
Full hookups limited at state parks. Research utilities before booking. "There are 2 pull through sites, and 2 full hook up sites. The rest are back in with water & electric," explains Joel R. about Laura S Walker State Park.
Access limitations: Size restrictions. Some parks cannot accommodate larger RVs. "Very nice campground. Great professional staff and clean bath house. Well stocked camp store," shares Dustin T. about Okefenokee Pastimes Cabins and Campground, which has limited space for larger rigs.
Dump station availability: Plan accordingly. Not all parks offer on-site dumping. "Nice camp store on sight. Free breakfast and pizza and wings delivered to your site," notes Daniel S. about his unexpected stop at Jacksonville North KOA.