General Coffee State Park offers equestrian camping options with separate facilities for those traveling with horses. The park sits on the 17 Mile River in south Georgia, approximately 8 miles from Douglas. This area features a unique ecosystem of cypress swamps and pine forests at elevations averaging 200-250 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity levels.
What to do
Heritage farm visits: General Coffee State Park includes a working heritage farm where visitors can interact with farm animals. "We love buying carrots to feed all the farm animals and if you want some good exercise rent one of the pedal boats," notes Kirsten W. about General Coffee State Park Campground.
Paddling opportunities: The park offers boat rentals on its small lake when operational. "The lake is big enough to boat around in for a little while and there are fish to be caught- carp from what I could tell," reports Kayla S. The nearby Altamaha River provides additional paddling options.
Fishing access: The 17 Mile River and park lake support fishing activities. At Towns Bluff Park, "We love this campground, quiet and secluded on the bank of the altamaha river, perfect for a quick weekend getaway," according to Andrew H., highlighting another fishing option within driving distance.
Nature exploration: Multiple trails traverse the park's diverse habitats. "The west river trail runs right behind the campsite... We hiked the west river trail all the way to the farm at the front of the park. It took us over wooden boardwalks over swampy Cyprus areas and through the forest around the 17 mile river," explains Kayla S.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained amenities. "Bathrooms are always spotless. Nice paved roadway. Gravel sites all of them pull through," reports Michael R. about Big Mike's Ranch and RV Camp.
Historical elements: The park preserves cultural history through its buildings and farm. "I love the old houses, it gives you a feeling of what it was like 100 years ago," writes Jennifer H., highlighting the historical aspect of the park experience.
Space and layout: Campsite size and arrangement receive positive comments. "We had site #12 which was gigantic. All the sites are open to your neighbors," notes Rachel G., describing the spacious nature of certain sites despite limited privacy.
Animal interactions: Beyond horses, campers enjoy various animal encounters. "It's 2 nights free $10 after with no electric or stay primitive for however long and 15 a night electric I believe we stayed in primitive but my brother helped do some construction for them helped finalize a house they started working on too long ago so they could sell and make a profit," shares Theresa B., whose experience included interactions with "baby goats, donkeys, horses, chicken that roam free during the day."
What you should know
Campground options: General Coffee offers two distinct camping loops with different characteristics. "Campground 1 is on an unpaved but well packed dirt road. Sites are small with limited privacy but very quaint. Campground 2 has a paved main road, with bigger sites and more privacy. All sites are pull thru," explains G F.
Weather considerations: The region experiences hot, humid conditions, particularly near wetland areas. "Because it's near the swamp, it is hot, humid and buggy. Bring your thermacells," advises G F., highlighting practical concerns for summer camping.
Trail status varies: Trail access may change seasonally or due to weather events. "Only one trail open and it's not the one with access to swamp. The park has beautiful bone structure and I'm sure once fixed, it will be great. But as of now, very limited hiking," notes G F. from a visit following weather impacts.
Extended-stay options: For those seeking longer horse camping stays near Douglas, Georgia, options exist with variable pricing structures. Towns Bluff offers primitive camping areas that Monte W. describes: "If you keep left instead of going towards the rv campground, there is a free primitive camping area that has multiple spots for camping."
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: The heritage farm provides significant entertainment value for younger visitors. "The farm was great with chickens, sheep, donkey and horse. On our visit there were 3 day old lambs," shares Rachel G., highlighting the appeal for children.
Biking opportunities: The park layout supports family cycling activities. "Great place for bike rides too," notes Michael R., mentioning an activity option suitable for various ages.
Water recreation: Small-scale boating activities suit families with children. "Small park with a few trails, small pond, and farm... Can fish in small pond and rent peddle boats or kayaks but this pond is very small," explains Rachel G., setting appropriate expectations for water activities.
Duration planning: Consider the park size when planning trip length. "This is a great place for 3/4 days," suggests Rachel G., offering practical guidance for family visit duration.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: The campground accommodates various RV types with practical site designs. "Gravel sites all of them pull through. Large private sites," reports Michael R., providing useful information for RV positioning.
Hookup details: Electric connections may require planning. "The electric box is a little further from the tent pad (which is packed sand and not gravel) than most sites I've stayed at, so I was happy that I brought an extension cord," notes Kayla S., advice equally applicable to RV camping.
Local exploration: The surrounding area offers additional activities within driving distance. "The park is about an hour and a half drive from the main entrance of the Okefenokee swamp. We drove down there and rented a kayak," shares Kayla S., suggesting day trip options for RVers based at General Coffee State Park.
Alternative horse campgrounds: When the equestrian sites at General Coffee are full, nearby options exist. "Quiet. Off the beaten path. Near Douglass, Ga. About 30 minutes to Broxton Rocks," mentions Cathy C., describing the location relative to other natural attractions.
