Tent camping options near Jekyll Island provide primitive wilderness experiences with distinctive coastal ecosystems. Most sites are accessible only via ferry or boat, creating a true disconnect from mainland amenities. Campers must carry in all supplies and be prepared for weather fluctuations typical of barrier island environments.
What to do
Beach exploration: Sea Camp Campground on Cumberland Island offers direct access to pristine beaches. "Wild horses running on the beach (and all over the island). Be sure to bring/rent a bike so you can explore all the interesting sites along the islands trails. The ruins of an old mansion look like a much older archeological site," notes Kelly M.
Kayaking: Okefenokee Wilderness Primitive Camping provides swamp paddling adventures. "This 2 night/3 day kayaking and camping trip on the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia was filled with surprises. I knew there would be alligators but I did not expect the Okefenokee swamp to be so beautiful! Spending the night on the camping platforms under the stars was amazing," shares Randi T.
Wildlife viewing: Raccoons, armadillos, wild horses, and numerous bird species inhabit these coastal areas. At Sea Camp Campground, "The wildlife is one of the best parts of visiting Cumberland Island. The only animals we saw at the actual campsite were armadillos and raccoons, the latter of which were bold enough to walk right up to our campfire when we started cooking," reports Marian K.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Campsites offer significant separation from other campers. "Each site has a good amount of privacy and comes with a fire ring (and grill on top), picnic table, and food cage. We had one of the smaller sites - but it still had plenty of room, even with the tent and the hammock," notes a Sea Camp visitor.
Stargazing opportunities: The limited development creates exceptional night sky viewing. "What a truly unique gem of a place! Wild horses running on the beach (and all over the island)," explains Kelly M. about Sea Camp Campground.
Historical sites: Stafford Beach Campground provides access to significant historical structures. "It was such a short walk to the beach from here! This is where we saw groups of wild horses as well," notes Renee B.
Diverse ecosystems: Brickhill Bluff Wilderness Campsite showcases multiple coastal habitats. "This area is right on the water (the sound side, not the ocean side) so you can pull your boats right up on the shore. There are no designated sites, just a bit of a flat open area to set up camp," explains Sarah C.
What you should know
Ferry logistics: Reaching Cumberland Island requires advance planning. "100% need to book the ferry in advance and avoid leaving valuables (or anything obvious) in the car when you leave it behind on the mainland," advises Kelly M.
Water limitations: Different campgrounds have varying water availability. For the best tent camping near Jekyll Island, Georgia, prepare accordingly. "Water at Seacamp is potable but has a funny taste. Water elsewhere on the island must be boiled," notes Adela D.
Wildlife precautions: Food storage is essential at all sites. "Keep all your food and scented items in the racoon proof cages or make sure your coolers/food boxes are locked! Raccoons will pry open just about everything! Raccoons, hogs, and bobcats will make enough noise to keep light sleepers awake all night," warns a Sea Camp visitor.
Weather considerations: Dutton Island Preserve camping requires seasonal awareness. "I would recommend not coming in summer. It was 100+ with heat index, buggy, muggy and rain half the day. The dirt roads that lead in were very muddy. Small cars may have a hard time in rainy season," explains leena.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate site selection: Choose sites with bathroom facilities for younger children. "This was my second time camping on Cumberland Island but the first time was 12 years prior at the then primitive Stafford Campground. I decided to do Sea Camp this time because I was camping with my mother and my three year old. It's the perfect campground for those who don't want to forego basic amenities," shares Marian K.
Gear transportation planning: Children's comfort requires additional equipment consideration. "You are responsible for carrying all of your own gear to the campgrounds so you'll want to pack it all in a backpack, bring your own wagon or hope to try and borrow one of the wagons they have at the ranger station," explains a camper.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs enhance children's experiences. "The resident volunteer led an info session on armadillos which was educational and fun and really added value to our trip," notes Marian K. about Sea Camp.
Off-season advantages: Cabretta Island Pioneer Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "Absolutely beautiful, complete with bathrooms and many adirondacks to keep supplies dry, the campsite is a 3 to 5 minute walk away from both a beautiful beach and amazing marsh," reports Jonah D.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most tent camping near Jekyll Island occurs on islands without RV facilities. Only select sites allow RVs with minimal hookups. "The island is 13 miles long so it takes a while to explore everything it has to offer. The beaches are beautiful, the Gullah culture is eye opening, the old mansion is quite nice," explains Savannah C. about Cabretta Campground.
Alternative mainland options: For those with RVs seeking proximity to Jekyll Island, consider staying at mainland campgrounds and taking day trips. "There's not much to this little park, but that's what is nice about it. It's a natural slice of Florida tucked in an industrial area of Jax," notes Julia A. about Dutton Island Preserve.