Best Tent Camping near Darien, GA
Barrier islands near Darien, Georgia offer remote tent camping opportunities with Cumberland Island National Seashore providing the most extensive tent camping options. Campers can choose from established tent campgrounds like Sea Camp and Stafford Beach or venture to wilderness sites including Hickory Hill, Yankee Paradise, and Brickhill Bluff. Sapelo Island's Cabretta Island Pioneer Campground also provides tent camping with beach access.
Tent campgrounds in this coastal region require advance planning as most are accessible only by ferry or boat. Cumberland Island campsites must be reserved through recreation.gov with permits required for all camping locations. Sea Camp is the only campground with potable water, while Stafford Beach and wilderness sites require water purification. A recent review mentioned that "Cumberland Island has something to do for everyone. There's also different levels of camping such as front country camping, primitive camping, and backcountry-you're-all-on-your-own-extreme primitive camping." Most tent sites provide fire rings at designated campgrounds, but fires are prohibited at wilderness sites. Food storage containers are provided at Sea Camp to protect supplies from wildlife, particularly raccoons.
Many tent-only sites lie within walking distance of pristine beaches, making them ideal for campers seeking secluded coastal experiences. Areas beneath live oak canopies provide natural shade and protection from coastal winds. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "The sites are very large with beautiful trees hanging over and providing shade." Cumberland Island features wild horses, sea turtles, and diverse wildlife including armadillos and raccoons. Most primitive tent sites require backpacking gear, as campers must carry all supplies from ferry landings. While carts are sometimes available for Sea Camp, the sandy trails make wheeling gear challenging. Each established campground offers different amenities—Sea Camp provides cold showers and restrooms, while wilderness sites have no facilities, creating a true primitive tent camping experience.