S
Sharon W.
Scout
ScoutSkidaway Island State Park Campground
Beautiful setting
Pull through sites very accommodating. Trees need trimming. Roads very narrow.
Tent Camping near Darien, GA
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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.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Darien (7)
1. Cabretta Island Pioneer Campground
"Plenty of trees for hammock camping, which is what I prefer, as well as many options for tent set ups. They do have Adirondacks on site for camping."
"Absolutely beautiful, complete with bathrooms and many adirondacks to keep supplies dry, the campsite is a 3 to 5 minute walk away from both a beautiful beach and amazing marsh. Highly recommend."
from $42 / night
Check Availability2. Sea Camp Campground — Cumberland Island National Seashore
"Nice secluded campground where each site is set back and nestled into a saw palm clearing and equipped with a picnic table, fire ring/grill and food cache box (an elevated roofed chicken wire cage)."
"Cumberland Island is a beautiful pristine National Seashore accessible by ferry off the coast of Georgia. We tent camped there in the middle of June 2021."
from $9 - $40 / night
Check Availability3. Pioneer Campsite — Fort Morris State Historic Site
"I didn’t get to stay there but walked around for about an hour. But it’s on my list on the way back to Pa when I go."
from $45 / night
Check Availability4. Stafford Beach Campground — Cumberland Island National Seashore
"It is more quiet and there are less campers than Sea Camp but you still get amenities like showers, bathrooms, campfires, and a non-potable water source unlike the backpacking sites."
"There is showers that are cold, and restrooms that are really clean as well. There is water but it is not treated and has to be purified before drinking."
from $12 / night
Check Availability5. Brickhill Bluff Wilderness Campsite — Cumberland Island National Seashore
"There are no designated sites, just a bit of a flat open area to set up camp."
"Hiking in S. Georgia is a challenge but don’t miss this if wilderness camping is your thing."
from $9 / night
Check Availability6. Yankee Paradise Wilderness Campsite — Cumberland Island National Seashore
"It's a bit of a haul down an sandy road that then turns into the Duck House Trail. Depending on how your pack your gear, this could be a pleasant walk or it could be a buggy slog."
7. Hickory Hill Wilderness Campsite — Cumberland Island National Seashore
"You can only get here by boat and backpack to your site. No electricity, cell service is spotty, and when we went in the summertime I was attacked by mosquitos! But it was a wonderful trip."
Drive Time
- 19 min from Brunswick, GA
- 41 min from Hinesville, GA
- 45 min from Savannah, GA
- 1 hr 28 min from Hilton Head Island, SC
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Darien, GA
13 Photos of 7 Darien Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Brickhill Bluff Wilderness Campsite — Cumberland Island National Seashore
Yankee Paradise Wilderness Campsite — Cumberland Island National Seashore
Hickory Hill Wilderness Campsite — Cumberland Island National SeashoreR
Stafford Beach Campground — Cumberland Island National Seashore
Sea Camp Campground — Cumberland Island National Seashore
Tent Camping Reviews near Darien, GA
582 Reviews of 7 Darien Campgrounds
John W.ScoutJacksonville North-St. Marys KOA
Not up to KOA standards
I have been a KOA member for more than 20 years and have generally had very good experiences. Unfortunately, this particular KOA was a major disappointment. My wife and I brought our two grandkids on an eight-day trip and specifically chose this campground because of several advertised amenities: a pool with a slide, a game room, and a DVD player in the deluxe cabin. We paid more than$900 for our stay. When I booked, the campground disclosed that it was undergoing water and sewer upgrades and warned guests to expect construction and possible“brief water/power interruptions.” That seemed reasonable, and I had no problem with it. Unfortunately, what we encountered went well beyond a brief interruption. The DVD player in our cabin did not work. I reported it to the office and was told the owner would be notified and someone would get back to me. No one ever did. We then received a text stating that the pool slide was not operating because of electrical upgrades. When we went to use the pool anyway, there was a considerable amount of debris that looked like dirt floating in the water, and the surface underneath the water was badly peeling. My grandkids didn't want to get in. We tried the game room next. It had no electricity, none of the games were operating, there was no air conditioning, and the room was extremely hot. At that point, we decided to leave and find a hotel that actually had the amenities we had expected. For a little over$100 per night, we found a very nice hotel and stayed there instead. We returned to the campground the following Saturday for our final night, and unfortunately, the same issues were still present. In the end, we used only three of the eight nights we paid for. I understand that construction and upgrades have to happen. What I don't think is reasonable is continuing to advertise amenities such as a pool slide and game room when they are going to be unavailable for an extended period, while still charging guests the full rate. A warning about possible“brief water/power interruptions” did not accurately describe what we experienced. After returning home, I contacted the KOA. I made it clear that I was not asking for a refund for the three nights we actually stayed there. Since one night was already planned for a hotel in Orlando, I simply requested a partial refund or other reasonable adjustment for the four unused nights after we left because the advertised amenities were unavailable or unusable. I even offered to provide our hotel receipts. I have received no response from the campground's management. That may be the most disappointing part of the experience. After more than 20 years as a KOA member, I expected at least the courtesy of a response. I chose this campground because I trusted the KOA name and wanted my grandkids to enjoy the amenities that were advertised. Unfortunately, they were probably the most disappointed of all. Hopefully this helps others considering staying here. Based on our experience, this campground did not meet the KOA standards I have come to expect over the past 20+ years.
- LLuis G.Scout
Skidaway Island State Park Campground
Great Location near Savannah
The campsite has a great space. Bathroom, and laundry were nice and clean.
Thomas B.
RangerWalkabout Camp & RV Park
Friendly and Thorough
I enjoyed this stay quite a bit, but it was only about 24 hours for me.
Friendly staff and chickens. Lots of amenities. Easy check-in and still close to surrounding areas. Plenty to do and ample resources to reload for your next camping trip.
Stuart K.
LegendSkidaway Island State Park Campground
Stone’s Throw to Savannah for Live Oak Shaded Camping & Salt Marshes
Just a short drive SE of downtown Savannah, Skidaway Island SP Campground offers a peaceful escape immersed in marshes, maritime forests, and Spanish moss-draped live oaks. Set along Georgia’s Intracoastal Waterway, the park feels remote while still easily accessible not just to civilization, but arguably one of the greatest little cities in the entire South, making it perfect for folks who want to grab a pristine slice of nature without having to sacrifice comfort and / or quick access to shops, restaurants and more salt water taffy shops on the Savannah riverfront than you can imagine.
The campground hosts some 87 tent, trailer and RV sites, many of which include water and electric hookups (usually 30/50 amp), and about 17 premium spots with full hookups. Sites are gravel, shaded, and include a picnic table, fire ring and grill making it ideal for gathering around the campfire. On-site you’ll find incredibly well-kept and clean restrooms with flush toilets, hot showers, a laundry room, dump station and an excellent CG store near the front of the property (near the entrance) for staples like firewood, snacks, ice and souvenirs. There are 3 yurts that the SP will rent you offering enhanced comfort with A/C, heat, kitchens, bathrooms and screened porches - perfect for those seeking a bit more luxury. Pets are allowed in campsites but not in the cabins. Additional features include three pioneer group campsites, a group shelter, laundry facilities, playgrounds and even outdoor fitness equipment with Wi-Fi available at the park office.
What sets Skidaway Island apart from other SPs is, yes, its proximity to an exquisite city, but very much so, the wildlife you'll discover here with deer, fiddler crabs, raccoons and egrets being frequent sightings, which you’ll encounter while experiencing the six miles of hiking trails weaving through salt marsh and maritime forest. The boardwalk and observation tower over the Skidaway Narrows offer scenic glimpses of birdlife and nature. Engaging ranger programs, geocaching and an interpretive center deepen the experience. While close enough to Savannah, if you are not familiar with the area, you should definitely check out Tybee Island (about 30–40 minutes away) to easily combine camping with beach day-trips.
Insider Tips? Oh yeah, I’ve got quite a few for you: (1) For big rigs, book one of the premium full-hookup pull-through sites as they’re roomy and easier to access, although the low-hanging Spanish moss can be tricky to maneuver but will give you tons of shade and creates a peaceful vibe; (2) Even if you’re not staying in a yurt, stop by and check them out as they’re very well made, cozy and well-equipped; (3) Take the Big Ferry and Marsh Trail to the observation tower for sunrise or sunset wildlife viewing where you’ll be richly rewarded, but be sure to bring either that double-walled thermos of coffee for early AM sipping or that cocktail shaker set pre-loaded with your favorite elixir for proper sun-downers; (4) One of the biggest ‘pro tips’ I could give anyone coming to Skidaway is LOAD UP ON FIREWOOD *** BEFORE *** you arrive as every imaginable place that sells firewood within a 20 mile radius was completely out – and while the CG store has a firewood box in front of the store, it was either always locked or out of wood by the time we stopped by; (5) Another huge ‘pro tip’ is given the very close proximity to Publix, which is literally right outside the CG, you don’t really need to load up your coolers too much as you can simply go there whenever you need something, so let Publix keep your supplies cool and save yourself some packing!; (6) Beware of ant infestations – the little guys were literally EVERYWHERE, so I was grateful that I remembered to pack 1 can of ant spray from another bad camping experience, so we sprayed a perimeter around our tent and we were fine; (7) You will also want to be mindful that the black-eyed furry bandits (racoons) were INCREDIBLY aggressive and would actually come straight up to our picnic table and grab things WHILE WE WERE EATING and tried to run away with our bags, food and even a small pot!; and (8) When you grow weary of conjuring up that next meal from your cooler and want to try out some local fare, these are some nearby joints I'd recommend: Castaways, Sandfly BBQ where you’ll want to definitely gnosh on the smoked chicken, baked beans and cole slaw, Crystal Beer Parlor for old school cheesburger’s in a century’s old grocery store and Loc’s Chicken & Waffles, but if you want something truly transformation, venture into Savannah for fantastic dining at The Grey with its sizzlin’ smoking pig and Mrs. Wilkes Boarding House for succulent fried chicken – both of which require advance reservations and likely a better outfit than the one you might be camping in – and finish an excellent bit of dining with some of the best ice cream in the universe over at Leopold’s Ice Cream Parlor.
Happy Camping!
JodeeScoutBeaver Creek RV Campground
VERY nice place
If you want country and quiet. This is the place. I enjoy fishing in the altamaha. Approximately half mile from the campground. We go back every year for the last 10 years,
- LLarry W.
TravelerEagle Hammock RV Park
Perfect spot
Standard military entrance and security requirements. Has about 80 level full hookups, free laundry, really nice community room, stocked with everything! Very clean fully equipped restrooms, grab bars, towel racks, shower seating, bicycle and walking paths. Campsites on the lake $35, others are $32. You can check in after hours with camp host.
B
GuideSkidaway Island State Park Campground
Gates close at 10, otherwise great
Expensive for a campground in general but not for the region, and I was able to find a discount code online. Staff went out of the way to accommodate arrival after the office closed. Hard refusal to allow entry after 10 to preserve quiet hours, no idea what happens in emergency. Place is big and beautiful, well landscaped with lots of mostly level sites and Spanish moss everywhere. Cell service is sufficient. Proximity to Savannah is a huge deal, it's a nice enough park on its own but this is the best option if you're visiting the city and need power at night.
- David R.Guide
Blythe Island regional campground Georgia
Private camping
Navigating the park and campground entrance was a bit tight with my 45-foot motorhome flat-towing a car, but we made it! Once inside, the campground was easily navigable with many nice campsites, full hookups, and cable. T-Mobile cell signal was excellent. Overall, we really enjoyed our stay! 🚐🏕️ #Park #Campground #Motorhome #Campsites #Hookups #Cable #Signal #Stay
Guide to Darien
Tent camping near Darien, Georgia centers around the barrier islands where maritime forests meet white sand beaches. Cumberland Island National Seashore and Sapelo Island lie within an ecosystem characterized by 6-7 foot daily tidal variations that create unique intertidal habitats. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while winter temperatures moderate between 45-65°F, making fall and spring the preferred camping seasons.
What to do
Wildlife observation at dawn/dusk: Sea Camp Campground offers prime wildlife viewing opportunities. "We slept in hammocks. It was perfect! Don't forget your mosquito nets. Water at Seacamp is potable but has a funny taste," notes Adela D. Early mornings provide the best chance to spot wild horses, armadillos, and shore birds.
Beach combing after high tide: The remote beaches near Stafford Beach Campground yield excellent shell collecting opportunities. "Walking on the 'wet' sand areas was sturdy and not difficult at all. There was much less people on the beach between here and Sea Camp and we saw many different kinds of birds," explains Renee B. Morning low tides expose the widest beachfront for exploration.
Historical site exploration: Schedule 2-3 hours to visit the Carnegie ruins on Cumberland Island. "The ruins of an 1800s mansion built by a Carnagie that burned in 1959 is also one of those mysterious places that conjure emotions and kick the imagination in gear," shares Charles D. The ruins are approximately 1.5 miles from Sea Camp via the River Trail.
What campers like
Seclusion from crowds: Cumberland's limited ferry capacity restricts visitor numbers, creating true wilderness experiences. "They limit the number of people on the island daily, so it's a nice relaxing Escape from the 'real world'. Access is provided by ferry from St. Mary's and I encourage reservations!" advises Todd W.
Undeveloped beach access: Yankee Paradise Wilderness Campsite provides access to pristine shorelines. "The site itself is great. It's wooded and the ground is a dirt/sand combo which is nicer than all sand. The campsite is also a short walk to the ocean side of the island," reports Sarah C. Most beach access points require no more than a 20-minute walk from campsites.
Natural shade canopies: The mature maritime forests provide natural cooling. "Palm trees filling in the canopy of the largest stand of live oaks left in U.S. that all have spanish moss hanging in them like no movie production set designer could ever replicate make you feel like you time jumped to a jurassic age," describes Charles D.
What you should know
Ferry planning requirements: The Cumberland Island ferry operates on a limited schedule with 45-minute transit times. "You will need to calculate both your entrance AND exit to this enchanting island by more than a couple of hours on both sides of arrival and departure, so make sure you research embarkation and disembarkation times closely," advises Stuart K.
Limited water availability: Most tent sites beyond Sea Camp require water treatment. "There is no potable water at Yankee Paradise. You will either need to fill your water up from a spigot at Plum Orchard or walk a bit down the parallel trail to find a pump," notes Sarah C.
Gear transport challenges: Brickhill Bluff Wilderness Campsite requires significant planning for access. "We paddled from the mainland in St. Mary's to this spot on the island. If you time the tide right, you can ride the Crooked River out relatively quickly. Just be sure you've got a chart and not just a map!" explains Sarah C. For hikers, Brickhill Bluff sits approximately 10.5 miles from the Sea Camp dock.
Tips for camping with families
Pack water treatment options: When camping with children at Hickory Hill Wilderness Campsite, ensure proper water planning. "Make sure you are prepared about water as the nearest non-potable water source to Hickory Hill is about 1 mile away," warns Renee B.
Consider campground location for beach access: For families with small children, select sites with shorter beach access routes. "It was such a short walk to the beach from here! This is where we saw groups of wild horses as well," shares Renee B. about Stafford Beach Campground.
Plan for insect protection: Summer months bring significant insect activity, especially at inland sites. "Unfortunately, no amount of bug spray could deter the mosquitoes in June. We had a million bug bites and tent camping in this humidity was uncomfortable. Elsewhere on the island was not nearly as bad for ticks and mosquitoes," reports Renee B.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options on Sapelo: Cabretta Island Pioneer Campground provides RV amenities uncommon on barrier islands. "They do have Adirondacks on site for camping. Established fire pit, large covered pavilion with multiple picnic tables, electrical hookups located within pavilion and a shower house equip with sinks and toilets," details Nikki K.
Ferry logistics for RV supplies: When planning the best tent camping near Darien, Georgia with RV supplies, consider access limitations. "You take a ferry to sapelo island, then a bus takes you to Cabretta Campground. Heaven on earth, just don't forget the bug spray," advises Nikki K. The ferry can't transport RVs, so supplies must be brought separately.
Pack essential supplies: No stores exist on the islands, requiring complete self-sufficiency. "There are no stores on the isle so be prepared. Everything that comes on with you goes off, including trash," reminds Todd W.
Frequently Asked Questions
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campsite near Darien, GA?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Darien, GA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Darien, GA is Cabretta Island Pioneer Campground with a 4-star rating from 4 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 7 tent camping locations near Darien, GA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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