Laura S Walker State Park Campground provides camping and glamping options with 50 sites set around a lake in Waycross, approximately 60 miles from Douglas, Georgia. The campground offers two full hookup sites and two pull-through sites, with most being back-in sites with water and electric hookups. Towns Bluff Park in Hazlehurst sits along the Altamaha River about 25 miles northwest of Douglas and features both RV and glamping accommodations in a more remote setting. Both locations serve as convenient bases for exploring southwest Georgia's natural areas.
What to do
Wildlife observation: Laura S Walker State Park features short trails where visitors can spot local wildlife including tortoises. "The hiking trail to the boardwalk which crosses the lake" provides excellent viewing opportunities, according to Tim D., who found the trails "reasonably short" but worthwhile.
Fishing: Towns Bluff Park provides direct access to what Scott S. calls "the best catfish river out there." The park's location directly on the Altamaha River makes it ideal for fishing enthusiasts without requiring a boat.
Water recreation: Despite alligator warnings, Laura S Walker State Park offers water activities during regulated hours. Christina C. notes there's "a window of time when boats on jetskis can be on the water allowing for a more peaceful atmosphere in the morning and evening," making it safer for kayakers to enjoy the lake during those quieter periods.
Swamp exploration: The parks serve as gateways to the Okefenokee Swamp. 341 RV Park in Hazlehurst provides a convenient starting point for day trips, with one reviewer noting it's "off Highway 341 which connects Coastal and Middle Georgia," making it accessible for exploring the region.
What campers like
River access: Visitors to Towns Bluff Park appreciate the direct river access for various water activities. Mike B. mentions "tubing/floating down the river was a popular activity" and notes the convenience of "showers, sinks and bathrooms near the river which is only a short walk from the site."
Peace and quiet: The more remote glamping locations near Douglas offer tranquility. At Towns Bluff Park, Angela B. found "a nice and peaceful getaway" noting that while there's "nothing really to do but hiking and hanging around the campground," it was perfect for "if you just needed to get away for a few days."
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the maintenance standards at area campgrounds. At Laura S Walker State Park, Joel R. reports "The showers and bathrooms are clean and modern," making it comfortable for extended stays when exploring nearby attractions.
Heated bathrooms: During winter camping near Douglas, comfort becomes a priority. Angela B. mentioned that at Towns Bluff Park, "The bathrooms were heated and clean," an important consideration for off-season glamping when temperatures drop in south Georgia.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: At Laura S Walker State Park, Lorilee S. noted challenges with site placement: "Our site was very unlevel thanks to tree roots... Our site did not have any room in the back and it was oddly placed with two other sites." Similarly, G F. found "sites close to each other and no privacy" due to "flat area, tall pines without vegetation between sites."
Limited full hookups: The vast majority of sites at Laura S Walker lack sewer connections. As Joel R. points out, "There are 2 pull through sites, and 2 full hook up sites. The rest are back in with water & electric." Christina C. added that "only 2 sites have full hook up with one being the camp host," which affects bathroom usage.
Shower facilities: Bathroom capacity varies between parks. At Laura S Walker, Christina C. found that "4 showers for 30+ sites on a lake seems light," while Lorilee S. noted the "bathhouse near our site is definitely on the older side" with "water pressure on the lower end and one shower missing a shower head."
Primitive options: For those seeking more rustic glamping near Douglas, Mike B. describes the primitive site at Bullard Creek WMA: "About 8 miles north of Hazlehurst, GA, on a dirt road turn off just before the Altamaha River, this primitive site lies in solitude amongst the loblolly pines."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Paulk Park RV Park in Fitzgerald offers family-friendly amenities. Ali P. describes it as a "Beautiful park" with "pull thru" sites that make it easier for families with children to set up camp alongside the "beautiful lake."
Dog-friendly options: Families with pets will appreciate Laura S Walker State Park's dedicated dog area. Joel R. notes "The dog park is large, with two sections and grass," providing ample space for pets to run while maintaining camping etiquette.
Outdoor fitness: Laura S Walker State Park offers unique exercise options for all ages. Joel R. mentions "a big picnic area with several shelters and playground, which includes some adult cardio equipment," allowing families to stay active together.
Kid-friendly water activities: Despite having motorized boats, Laura S Walker State Park structures usage times to accommodate families. Andrew S. notes there's a "Swimming area and kayaks to rent" along with a "great playground" making it suitable for children of various ages.
Tips from RVers
Limited privacy: RVers should be strategic when selecting sites. At Laura S Walker, Andrew S. advises that "If you aren't lucky to get one of the sites right on the lake the inner sites can get a little crowded with very little privacy. One of the sites farther off the lake hugging the treeline would have been nice."
Site selection: For the most level sites, Don H. recommends Towns Bluff Park: "The sites are water & electric with a dump site as you leave 30/50 amp pull through/back in. All sites appear to be close to level." This makes it suitable for various RV sizes without extensive leveling equipment.
Laundry facilities: For longer stays near Douglas, Laura S Walker provides laundry options. Lorilee S. reports they "have washers ($0.75) and dryers ($1.00)" which can save extended-stay campers from making trips into town for laundromat services.
Camp host support: Several campgrounds feature attentive hosts. Dawn S. found Towns Bluff Park to be a "Well maintained rural park. Very quiet and sites are spacious. Park hosts and office people are wonderful!" This level of service helps newer RVers navigate any challenges.
