Recreational vehicles cluster around the edge of the Okefenokee Swamp during winter months, with most campers setting up from October through April. Cell service in this South Georgia region ranges from excellent near I-75 to spotty within the swamp's interior. The dark skies around Fargo, Georgia offer exceptional stargazing conditions when wildlife refuge gates remain open.
What to Do
Swamp boat tours: Okefenokee Pastimes Cabins and Campground provides easy access to water recreation. According to Ron H., "Right across the street from the entrance to Okefenokee Swamp. Take the sunset boat ride…totally worth it!"
Fishing ponds: Feed the fish at designated spots throughout campgrounds. At Okefenokee Pastimes Cabins and Campground, Danna D. enjoyed "Lovely fish ponds where you can feed the fish!"
Stargazing: The region is rated among the top dark sky locations on the East Coast. Stuart K. notes the campground "is also rated as one of the top 10 in the Country!" for astronomy viewing.
Trail exploration: Multiple walking paths connect to the wildlife refuge. Rob D. recommends "Trails for hiking or canoeing... Some history to see, a boardwalk and more. Admission is $5."
What Campers Like
Level concrete sites: Many RV parks maintain well-constructed pads that handle rainy conditions. At Eagles Roost RV Resort, Teresa S. found "shady and many pull through concrete pad sites that are well maintained."
Clean bathhouse facilities: Most campgrounds offer modern shower buildings. At Lake Park Campground, Eleanor reports "Bathrooms were clean, but dated with rusty stall doors."
Proximity to Interstate: Quick access makes overnight stops convenient. Debbie K. appreciates that Lake Park Campground is "easy to pull right off the interstate, gas up and then pull into the campground. It's always quiet and super clean!"
Spacious pull-through sites: Many parks accommodate larger rigs with minimal maneuvering. Robert M. found Okefenokee Pastimes Cabins and Campground to have "Spacious sites!"
What You Should Know
Wildlife refuge regulations: Gates close at specific times after dark. Rob D. notes "Park closed at 7:00. Well marked trailhead outside the park before you get there."
Road noise: Proximity to highways affects some campgrounds. At Lake City RV Resort, rani D. points out sites are "too close together and too close to a highway, but the amenities make up for it."
Pet documentation: Some campgrounds require vaccination records. Rob D. advises "Before you make a reservation read the rule book. Proof of rabies vac. required for the dog for one."
Electrical hookups: Campgrounds may have different amperage availability and restrictions. One visitor at Kelly's Countryside RV Park notes "Full hook ups with 50 amp service. Level sites on grass."
Tips for Camping with Families
Game areas: Many campgrounds provide recreational spaces. Stuart K. reports Okefenokee Pastimes offers "a small, fenced-in dog park" and "a small playground, swing set and small yard game areas (think horseshoes, badminton, volleyball, jenga and jarts!)."
Swimming options: Island Oaks RV Resort offers multiple water features. Jeremy R. describes "Heated resort pool with tiki pool bar & music, beach front lake with a massive inflatable obstacle course."
Wildlife viewing: Morning hours provide best animal sightings. Stuart K. advises "get out early – that's when you'll see the gators at their most active and we're you'll land some great photos."
Farm animals: Some campgrounds incorporate livestock experiences. According to Theresa B., Big Mike's Ranch and RV Camp has "got baby goats donkeys horses chicken that roam free during the day and at night the donkey keep predators away."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Check site layouts before selecting. Eleanor the Airstream warns about Lake Park Campground: "Concrete pad was all the way forward on the site while connections were over midway back making it so we couldn't use both easily."
Extension cords: Some parks require longer-than-standard power cables. According to Victor D., when camping at Island Oaks RV Resort, "I have 30 amp extension and a longer 50 amp power cord."
Seasonal discounts: Several parks offer reduced rates during summer months. One visitor notes "Passport America stop $23 for 3 adults" at Eagles Roost.
Specific site requests: When booking, ask for sites that meet your particular needs. Brooke suggests at Island Oaks RV Resort to "book closer to the lake if you would like to swim and take advantage of the pool house."
