Best Campgrounds near St. Simons Island, GA
Camping opportunities around St. Simons Island, Georgia include several established campgrounds within a short drive of the coastal area. Jekyll Island Campground provides full-hookup sites under Spanish moss-draped live oaks, while Blythe Island Regional Park and Crooked River State Park offer additional developed camping options. Accommodations range from tent-only primitive sites to full-service RV pads, cabins, and glamping facilities. Most campgrounds in the region are concentrated along the coast or adjacent to marshlands, providing convenient access to beaches, bike trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Access to camping areas requires consideration of the coastal environment's unique characteristics. Most campgrounds on Jekyll Island and surrounding areas maintain well-maintained roads suitable for standard vehicles and RVs. "We had a nice stay in our tent. This campground is perfect for riding bikes and getting to the ocean quickly," noted one camper about Jekyll Island. However, island-specific regulations apply, including an entrance fee to Jekyll Island ($8 for cars, $20 for oversized vehicles) which may cause delays during peak periods. Coastal weather patterns create high humidity levels year-round, with summer bringing intense heat, afternoon thunderstorms, and persistent mosquito activity. Even winter camping requires insect repellent as gnats remain active in the mild climate. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during spring break and summer months when campgrounds frequently reach capacity.
The coastal camping experience near St. Simons Island features distinctive natural attractions not found elsewhere. Campers consistently highlight Jekyll Island's Driftwood Beach as a must-see destination within walking distance of the campground. Bike-friendly infrastructure throughout the region allows for exploration without vehicles – Jekyll Island alone offers miles of dedicated bike paths connecting campgrounds to beaches, historic districts, and nature areas. Several visitors mention the bird sanctuaries and marsh ecosystems as highlights of their stays. While camping sites at many facilities are described as relatively close together, the natural beauty compensates for the proximity to neighbors. As one reviewer explained: "The sites were fairly close together, but not so much so that you felt like you were sitting on top of one another. Lots of Spanish moss-draped live oak trees and palm frond plants."