Tybee Island camping options range from riverside parks to island-based experiences, all within a low-lying coastal environment averaging 11 feet above sea level. The marshy ecosystem surrounding the camping sites near Tybee Island, Georgia creates distinctive challenges with drainage, especially during heavy rain periods. Most campgrounds in this area remain operational year-round, with winter temperatures rarely dropping below freezing.
What to do
Cycling exploration: Skidaway Island State Park Campground offers excellent biking opportunities with several nature trails accessible from the campsite. "Big sites with lots of trees and privacy. Well maintained campground that is convenient to Savannah and other sightseeing spots. Lots of great hiking within walking distance of the campsite," notes Michelle H. The park's trail network extends through maritime forest and salt marsh areas.
Bird watching: Little Tybee Island provides exceptional wildlife viewing, especially for rare coastal birds. "We had the beach to ourselves once the tide started coming in and they left for the mainland," reports one visitor who camped overnight. Bird species commonly spotted include oystercatchers, piping plovers, and wood storks depending on the season.
Water activities: Fort McAllister State Park Campground gives campers direct access to fishing and wildlife viewing. "Beautiful location and convenient to the city... While standing on the dock we were able to watch dolphins swim and even saw some sting rays," comments one camper. The park's orientation to the Ogeechee River creates opportunities for kayaking through tidal creeks and marshes.
What campers like
Large, well-spaced sites: River's End Campground & RV Park receives praise for its layout despite close quarters. "Beautiful campground. Clean and well kept. Bathhouse is clean and nice. The only nit is that its tight spots are close together," notes Tommy C. The campground's oak tree canopy provides natural shade that many neighboring locations lack.
Clean facilities: CreekFire RV Resort consistently earns high marks for maintenance standards. "Possibly the nicest campground I've ever been to. From the desk staff, the perfect sites, and a full service restaurant this place is the bomb," writes Sally S. Their modern bathhouses include individual shower rooms rather than communal facilities.
Proximity to beaches: Campers appreciate the different beach access options available when staying at various campgrounds. "We rode our bikes to the beach, the marina, restaurants, Starbucks, Publix, shops, etc.," explains one visitor at Hilton Head Island Motorcoach Resort. The biking distance to North Beach from most camping options ranges from 5-15 minutes depending on your starting point.
What you should know
Tide considerations: When kayaking to Little Tybee Island for camping, timing is critical. "Be extremely wary of the tides! Because of our lack of planning, the tide was low on our way there and on the way back. This means that we had to carry our kayak several feet up the sandbar," warns Sho A. The tidal difference can exceed 8 feet between high and low tide.
Wildlife awareness: Lake Jasper RV Park visitors should remain vigilant about local fauna. "Located on a wildlife park, I saw a few alligators in the lake," reports Dusty W. Raccoons are particularly active at several campgrounds, with one camper advising, "Do NOT leave food or trash unattended or they will ransack your campsite."
Limited tent options: Many facilities near Tybee primarily accommodate RVs with fewer tent sites. "There are only two tent sites, and they are in docks. Tethering your tent is tricky since you can't hammer it in," explains Jennifer L. about one location. Several campgrounds have converted former tent areas to cabin or glamping accommodations in recent years.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Red Gate Farms - RV Resort offers unique animal encounters for children. "Loved the horses, goats, lakes and pool. Leslie was very helpful. She remembered to offer me my favorite site when it opened up!" writes Andrea C. The farm animals are accessible for viewing within the campground boundaries.
Beach transportation: Families should consider transportation logistics when planning beach days. "We spent most of our time riding bikes on the bike path and on the beach. We also visited Fort Pulaski and walked the trails over there," shares Shauna P. Bike rentals average $25-35 daily, with weekly discounts available at most rental locations.
Insect preparation: Coastal camping requires specific insect management strategies. "Bring insect repellent, long shirt and pants. I got bit up pretty bad by sand fleas while playing on the beach, and had itchy red spots all over my legs for about a week," cautions one camper. Sand gnats are particularly active during dawn and dusk hours from March through June.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When staying at Hilton Head Harbor, choose carefully among variable sites. "The RV park itself is highly variable. Each site is owned by different owners and the RV park has rights to rent them out. None of the sites have fire pits. Some have chimneas," explains Dan R. Sites near amenities typically book 2-3 months in advance during peak seasons.
Leveling considerations: Most developed campgrounds feature engineered pads that simplify setup. "Sites are angled so it makes backing in a breeze! And the concrete pad was almost perfectly level which made setup so quick!" reports Edward S. This contrasts with more natural settings where leveling blocks are essential equipment.
Water pressure awareness: Some campers note inconsistent utilities at certain facilities. "My only complaint is that the water pressure was a little low," mentions one RVer. Pressure regulators are advisable at most campgrounds in the region due to variable municipal water systems.
