Glamping accommodations near Hoboken, Georgia provide access to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge's diverse ecosystem covering over 400,000 acres of wetlands. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional frost. Sand gnats are prevalent in mornings and evenings throughout the year, particularly during spring and fall transition periods.
What to do
Water exploration: Crooked River State Park offers multiple water-based activities with access to tidally influenced waters. "We paddled in the tidal river. The people in the bait shop were very helpful at helping us plan our route with the tide," notes Jan P. who visited in January when temperatures were unusually cold.
Wildlife viewing: Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge provides platforms accessible only by canoe or kayak. "Spent 2 nights in the swamp. Rented canoes and took shuttle to Launch at kingfisher landing, spent 1st night at Bluff Lake and 2nd at Round Top," shares Mark H. The trip covered "32 miles of total paddling through some varying environments."
Astronomy: Charlton County Traders Hill Recreation Area offers exceptional stargazing in a remote setting. "Pristine natural surroundings, Spanish moss drenched ancient Oaks and Cypress, small twisting little river joints that will slowly, but uncertainly have you navigate your way down the very murky dark waters of the St. Mary's River," writes Stuart K. The area features minimal light pollution.
Island exploration: Jekyll Island provides miles of bike trails connecting campsites to natural areas. "Jekyll Island is very bike and runner friendly. The island is not over developed but still has a few restaurants, stores and places to have a few drinks," reports Dwayne B., adding that "the campground is very shady and has a lot of beautiful oak trees."
What campers like
Fishing access: Barrington County Park offers waterfront camping with boat launch facilities. "A beautiful big open area for camping with lots of spots right by the water," says Katie A., who appreciated the "bathroom with showers" that have "hot water."
Remote camping: Laura S Walker State Park provides a quieter alternative to more developed campgrounds. "It's quiet and dark at night. We loved sitting at the gazebo and just watching the water," writes Lorilee S. The park features "a big lake with a swimming beach despite signs everywhere warning of alligators," according to Joel R.
Rustic atmosphere: Griffis Fish Camp offers an authentic camping experience. "Off the beaten path, a great place to rejuvenate. Extremely low daily rates, monthly rates available," notes Karen S., who spent winter there. The camp provides "full hookups or boondocking" options along the Suwanee River.
Convenience: St. Marys KOA offers amenities that make glamping close to Hoboken, Georgia comfortable. "Free breakfast and super friendly staff," mentions Sherrie K. Other campers note the "swimming pool for the kids and awesome outdoor games and playground area," with an "added bonus of free waffles and orange juice/coffee for breakfast."
What you should know
Site selection: Many campgrounds have varied site quality. At Laura S Walker, "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," advises Andrew S., who suggests "one of the sites farther off the lake hugging the treeline."
Accessibility: Some primitive camping areas require careful navigation. At Charlton County Traders Hill, "you will want to drive very slow and cautiously on the roads here as you will be greeted by some serious potholes," warns Stuart K., who also notes that "apart from the little CG market, which doesn't have a whole lot, there's nothing around this area if you need to load up on supplies or food."
Facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between parks. Barrington Park has bathrooms that "are not great to look at, but that's to be expected in any area with humidity," according to Katie A. At Traders Hill, "the restroom and shower facilities would be more at home in 3rd world countries than in the US," according to one reviewer.
Regulations: Many campgrounds have specific rules. At GA Coastal RV Park, "there weren't any fire pits or picnic tables, laundry or bath house," notes Darian D. Okefenokee Pastimes has "a laundry list of rules they give you at check in. One being, not using electric heaters or water heaters," according to Tiffany H.
Tips for camping with families
Boat tours: Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge offers guided experiences. "Take the sunset boat ride…totally worth it!" recommends Ron H. about visiting from Okefenokee Pastimes, which is "right across the street from the entrance to Okefenokee Swamp."
Recreation facilities: Jacksonville North-St. Marys KOA offers numerous activities for children. "We had a great time. They have a lot of things for the kids to do such as swimming, water slide, playground, mini golf," shares Kelsey. The campground also includes a "jumping pad and a dog run for your pet."
Wildlife education: Laura S Walker State Park offers nature programs. "The rangers were excellent during the nature education. We truly enjoyed touching and learning about local wildlife. While exploring, we even found a new turtle nest!" reports Tiffany C., who visited with her two children.
Water recreation: Crooked River State Park has supervised water activities. "Nice walking trails, plenty of playgrounds and very nice boat ramp and mini golf," notes Cathy C., adding there are "plenty of playgrounds" for children of different ages.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campsites require preparation. At Laura S Walker, "our site was very unlevel thanks to tree roots," shares Lorilee S., who adds, "we had a power line in our spot, so we had to go at an angle to stay clear of it."
Hookup availability: Crooked River State Park offers varied site options. "Large well maintained campground. All sites are large, well maintained and site specific. Many have full hook ups," reports Cathy C., who stayed at "site 39 with a full hook up, small view to the river out back."
Campground layout: Jekyll Island Campground has specific site arrangements. "The sites are very well shaded under a tree canopy with full hookups," notes Christy C., while Michael C. advises selecting wisely: "SITE# D16, Back-In, FHU, 50, 30, 20 Amp and Stable, Water, Waste, ESTIMATED RV PAD LENGTH: 45 Feet, Tow Vehicle Could NOT Stay Connected but Parking at Site."
Arrival planning: Some campgrounds have specific check-in procedures. At GA Coastal RV Park, "the website is setup to pay and park. The managers onsite make sure you have everything you need but gives you privacy," explains Sharon M., who found this "camping made easy" for their first trip.