Camping spots near Hinesville, Georgia range from military-affiliated sites to full-service RV resorts within a 30-minute drive radius. The coastal Georgia region features pine forests and marshlands with elevations generally below 100 feet above sea level. Year-round camping is possible due to the subtropical climate, though summer humidity levels regularly exceed 80% from June through September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Holbrook Pond Recreation Area offers pond fishing with some unexpected wildlife. "This Army rec site is clean and quiet. If you are looking for a peaceful area to camp this is a great place," notes one visitor. Another camper mentioned there was "a gator" in the fishing pond at Savannah Oaks.
History exploration: Located 15 miles from Hinesville, Fort McAllister State Park Campground features a Civil War fort with historical reenactments. "We planned this trip to coincide with the annual Civil War reenactment of Sherman's last battle on his way to the sea. It was our first reenactment and was interesting," writes one camper who stayed in December.
Nature trails: Several campgrounds offer walking paths through coastal forests. One camper at Fort McAllister noted, "Really nice campground. Great hikes. Very close to a Publix and two convenience stores. My kids loved the playground and the fort tour!" Trails typically range from easy quarter-mile loops to more moderate 2-3 mile circuits.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Skidaway Island State Park Campground receives high marks for site layout. "Sites are really large, spaced out and private. The whole campground is just very peaceful, quiet and serene. It is also beautiful with all the Spanish moss," observed one reviewer. Another camper mentioned, "Big sites with lots of trees and privacy."
On-site amenities: Many campgrounds offer recreational facilities beyond basic camping. At CreekFire RV Resort, visitors enjoy "the resort like pool/lazy river/splash pad" according to a recent review. Another camper noted, "The best surprise of all, and what makes this place really unique, is the restaurant and bar on the lake where we listened to live music in Adirondack chairs around a huge, stone fire pit."
Local wildlife viewing: Multiple campsites feature opportunities to observe native animals. One camper at Skidaway Island State Park mentioned, "Deer and other wildlife are seen every day." The sunrise over marshland areas also received specific praise: "The sunrise was beautiful over the marsh" wrote a tent camper at Fort McAllister.
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Pad materials and levelness differ widely between campgrounds. At Savannah South KOA, one camper noted, "Site is rocks which is better than sand, when it rains it does not get messy." In contrast, at Skidaway Island State Park, a visitor mentioned, "It was pretty muddy…people were getting mud all over because of the snow. Not their fault but a hard rain would do the same. Poor drainage."
Limited nightlife options: Gate restrictions at some parks limit evening activities. At Skidaway Island State Park, a camper observed, "Gate locks at 10 pm which really is not enough time if you want a night downtown."
Seasonal pest issues: Insects can be problematic during warmer months. At Fort McAllister State Park, a camper warned, "When I was here in April the flies were awful but they went away when the sun went down." Wildlife management is also necessary as "Raccoons come out to play! Do NOT leave food or trash unattended or they will ransack your campsite."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds have designated play areas. Fort McAllister State Park was praised by a visitor who stated, "My kids loved the playground and the fort tour!!" CreekFire RV Resort features "a pool, WiFi, gorgeous lake, a trail around the lake."
Wildlife education opportunities: Turn animal encounters into learning experiences. "The visitor center was really interesting and the staff were very knowledgeable and helpful," noted a Fort McAllister visitor. Plan early morning or dusk walks when wildlife is most active.
Security considerations: Most campsites are generally safe, but take standard precautions. At Hollis Smith RV Park, a camper advised, "Watch out for the deer on hwy 57" when driving to and from the campground, highlighting the importance of careful driving, especially after dark.
Tips from RVers
Site width matters: Space between RV sites varies considerably. At Hollis Smith RV Park, an RVer appreciated the "level gravel 30ft wide spaces with full hookups fences between neighbors," which provided more privacy than typical RV parks in the area.
Connectivity options: Internet access varies between campgrounds. At CreekFire RV Resort, RVers can expect reliable WiFi according to reviews, while at other locations, connections may require extra equipment. One Hollis Smith RV Park visitor mentioned the manager "brought us a WiFi extender so I could connect for work."
Weather considerations: The coastal Georgia climate affects RV camping comfort. "Unfortunately not a lot of shade to be found" was noted about CreekFire RV Resort, a common observation at newer facilities without mature tree cover. Consider portable shade solutions during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
