Camping spots near Brunswick, Georgia offer access to coastal wetlands and maritime forests where the average summer temperature reaches 90°F. The area's tidal changes affect water levels at some campgrounds, particularly those along rivers and creeks. Most camping options sit within 30 minutes of Brunswick's historic downtown.
What to do
Explore Cumberland Island: Take a ferry from St. Marys to see wild horses and undeveloped beaches. "We were going to go to Cumberland Island, but it would have been $200 for 1 adult and 3 kids with bikes. Yikes," notes a camper from Jacksonville North-St. Marys KOA.
Visit historic sites: Tour the 19th century coastal fort at Fort Clinch State Park. "19th Century Coastal Army Fort. Museum, guided and self tours. Miles of biking/hiking trails," writes a visitor at Atlantic Beach Campground.
Fish from designated piers: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access without needing a boat. "Fishing docks with lifts, ramps, campgrounds, shelters, bait shack, lake with beach, & more!" reports a camper at Blythe Island Regional Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds use natural barriers. "Very private and large site with direct access to trail along the water," writes a camper about Crooked River State Park Campground. Sites are designed to maintain separation with vegetation.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive regular maintenance at top campgrounds. "Restrooms were clean. Doors locked and keyed with code. Ice machine (free!)" shares a camper from Coastal GA RV Resort.
Walking trails: Multiple campgrounds feature accessible paths. "Great area to walk (like a boardwalk) around the pond," notes a visitor to Coastal GA RV Resort. These paths often connect camping areas to fishing spots and beaches.
What you should know
Insect activity: Mosquitoes can be intense, especially in summer months. One camper recommends: "Bring a kayak or canoe, tons of mosquito repellant and sit back to enjoy this most amazing state-run regional park."
Alligator presence: Water features at campgrounds may contain wildlife. "Nice pond adjacent to park (no swimming due to alligators) but lots of activity, fish, turtles, birds, etc." warns a visitor.
Gate access hours: Many campgrounds have security gates with limited operating hours. At Jekyll Island Campground, visitors must pay an entrance fee: "There's an extra fee/toll to get out to the island to be aware of. Well worth it!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Choose sites near play areas. "They have a lot of things for the kids to do such as swimming, water slide, playground, mini golf," shares a family at Jacksonville North-St. Marys KOA.
Educational programs: Look for ranger-led activities. "The rangers were excellent during the nature education. We truly enjoyed touching and learning about local wildlife," writes a visitor to Crooked River State Park Campground.
Biking opportunities: Bring children's bikes for paved trails. "Jekyll Island is very bike and runner friendly. The island is not over developed but still has a few restaurants, stores and places to have a few drinks," notes a camper.
Tips from RVers
Site surface types: RV pads vary from gravel to concrete. "Sites are paved, clean and easy in and out. Room for my 40 coach, tow car and trailer," reports an RVer at Coastal GA RV Resort.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have rough interior roads. "Roads are poor, rutted and full of holes. Campsites are mostly close but have shrubbery, overgrowth between which helps," notes a visitor to Blythe Island Regional Park.
Full hookups availability: Not all sites offer sewer connections. "Many have full hook ups. New family style bath house and an older bathhouse, both were very clean," shares an RVer about Crooked River State Park Campground.
