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Best Tent Camping near Waycross, GA

194 Reviews

The sandy pine forests surrounding Waycross, Georgia host several tent camping destinations within a short drive of the city. DirtCamp offers 20 reservable tent sites with basic amenities, while Dixon Memorial Wildlife Management Area provides free primitive tent camping in a more remote setting. The Okefenokee Wilderness area, south of Waycross, features platform-based primitive tent camping accessible only by boat or hiking trail.

Tent campers at DirtCamp benefit from fires being allowed with firewood available on site, plus access to toilets and trash disposal. Most locations lack drinking water, so campers should pack sufficient water supplies for their stay. Dixon Memorial WMA provides completely undeveloped campsites on flat, sandy ground suitable for pitching tents, but lacks facilities of any kind. The primitive platforms in Okefenokee Wilderness require advance planning as they have no services and pets are prohibited in this sensitive ecosystem.

The tent camping experience near Waycross varies significantly between sites. DirtCamp delivers a more established camping experience while still maintaining a natural setting, with visitors describing their stays as "very awesome camping" with "amazing camp spots." The Okefenokee Wilderness platforms offer a truly immersive experience where campers can observe wildlife, including alligators, in their natural habitat. At Dixon Memorial WMA, the open sites provide good hammock options with trees well-spaced for setup. A visitor noted that "there was a little bit of trash but overall it was much cleaner than some other hunt camps" and that they "had the spot to myself."

Best Tent Sites Near Waycross, Georgia (5)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Waycross, GA

194 Reviews of 5 Waycross Campgrounds

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 2, 2026

    Dixon Memorial WMA - Hunter Camp

    True Backcountry Georgia

    There is something beautifully wild about Dixon Memorial WMA, where the road narrows, the pine flatwoods open up endlessly and you quickly realize you are far from camp stores, strip malls and creature comforts. This massive wildlife management area offers dispersed primitive camping rather than a structured campground (meaning you are essentially choosing your own sandy clearing among longleaf pines, palmettos, and quiet forest roads). There are no developed amenities to speak of here: no bathhouses, no playgrounds, no hookups, just open land occasional fire rings left by prior campers, and the sounds of wind through the trees. The boys thought it was exciting at first, especially when we spotted deer tracks in the sand and listened for owls at dusk, but without designated facilities or nearby services, it quickly felt more like true backcountry camping than a manageable overnight stop for a family with younger kids. Since there are no marked sites, the best choice is to select a well-cleared area set back from the main dirt roads for added privacy and safety. While Dixon Memorial is likely a dream for seasoned hunters, equestrians or campers seeking deep solitude, for families wanting even basic campground structure, this one leans firmly into primitive territory and may be better suited for older kids or adults prepared for a fully self-contained adventure.

  • T
    Aug. 16, 2020

    Altamaha Regional Park

    Great site!

    Went to the site for an overnight tent camp with my son. Campground was nice, and tent site had power, water, area for car to be parked tend to be set up and food to be cooked. Amenities are great. Bathhouse super close to tent sites. Swimming area really fun. Only downside was boat ramps were unusually busy so the swimming area was a bit exhaust filled for a little while. Play ground was fun plenty of areas to explore with kids. Overall a great site and I will return.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 9, 2025

    Charlton County Traders Hill Recreation Area and Campground

    FL / GA Line Primitive Camping

    Should you find yourself near the FL / GA line and are on the lookout for a classic natural surrounding that is unique to Georgia, check out Charlton Co Traders Hill Recreation Area & Campground for ample Ancient and Live Oaks dripping with Spanish Moss. As my post from a bit more than a year ago provided quite a bit of detail on this campground, I’m following up on that review by sharing more fotos as well as providing a topline update: 

    Highlights: (1) Great boat dock with EZ boat / kayak access; (2) Substantial peace & quiet;(3) Nice level ground to park an RV; (4) This place is very affordable for both residents and visitors; (5) Excellent boat ramp with quick & EZ access to dark frackish waters; (6) Decent fishing pier and solid nature trails; and (7) Small CG market 

    Lowlights: (1) The restroom and shower facilities are some of the worst I’ve ever seen; (2) You will be covered by so much shade you will be convinced that the sun isn’t out; (3) The grounds could have been better groomed – there were a lot of downed tree branches, leaves and other debris; (3) You will want to drive very slow and cautiously on the roads here as you will be greeted by some serious potholes; and (4) 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, so bring what you need with you 

    Happy Camping!

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 2, 2026

    Charlton County Traders Hill Recreation Area and Campground

    Moss-Draped Oaks & River Mornings on the Florida-Georgia Line

    With the thick early morning fog lifting as we drove in, there’s something almost storybook-like about being beneath towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss at Traders Hill Campground, where the St. Marys River quietly winds its way past camp and time seems to slow down just a bit. This small, county-run campground near Folkston sits on flat, EZ-to-navigate grounds with a mix of open meadow and lightly wooded sites, offering both tent camping and full or partial hookup options, all just a short walk from the river’s edge. The amenities are simple but thoughtful, with a somewhat clean bathhouse (in need of some refurbishing), shared hookups in some areas, picnic tables and a boat ramp that seems to be the heartbeat of the campground, especially for early morning anglers heading out at sunrise. What really makes this place shine is its proximity to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and the EZ access to paddling adventures, along with the kind of quiet you can feel in your chest, broken only by the occasional hum of a passing truck or the gentle rustle of the trees. When we were walking down by the river just before dusk, the boys tossed pebbles into the water while the sky turned soft shades of pink and gold and it was one of those simple, grounding moments that reminds you why you are in this special place. I’d absolutely recommend Traders Hill for families looking for a peaceful, nature-forward stay, especially if you enjoy kayaking, unplugging and a slower pace of life, with just enough amenities to keep things comfortable without taking away from the experience.

  • Kayla S.
    May. 25, 2020

    General Coffee State Park Campground

    Memorial Day Weekend 2020

    We tent camped for 2 nights in campsite #1 in campground #1. This site is the first site to the right when you pull into the campground. There are trash cans at the campground exit and a direct line of sight view of the dump station. The west river trail runs right behind the campsite. The site itself is spacious with plenty of shade. There are a couple of good sets of trees for hanging a hammock. The electric box is a little further from the tent pad (which is packed sand and not gravel) than most sites I’ve stayed at, so I was happy that I brought an extension cord. The camp restrooms are adequate but not at all ADA accessible at campground #1. There are 3 toilet stalls, 2 that have working latches, and 2 shower stalls- both with working latches. Both of the showers have a small little room for you to change clothes with a hook on the wall and a hook on the door and a little bench. If you’re tall, be ready to duck to get your head under the water because the shower heads are low. Temperature and pressure were good. Bonus perk- stray cats at the campground.

    The park itself has some cool trails. We hiked the west river trail all the way to the farm at the front of the park. It took us over wooden boardwalks over swampy Cyprus areas and through the forest around the 17 mile river. It was pretty and the heritage tobacco farm was really cool. There are restrooms and a coke machine at the farm. The coke machine takes cards, but bring lots of water with you. There are lots of animals that are used to being fed, so buy some food at the visitor’s center, or prepare to be made to feel guilty. The farm is situated next to a small lake, and when the world isn’t shutdown due to COVID-19, they rent boats. The lake is big enough to boat around in for a little while and there are fish to be caught- carp from what I could tell.

    There was a small gravel road that split off from the first group picnic shelter area that takes you down to the 17 mile river for fishing access. The 17 mile river dries up some years, but the deeper “lakes” keep water in them during those dry years. The river wasn’t flowing while we were here, but there was some standing water in places that would have been dry if it hadn’t rained recently.

    The park is about an hour and a half drive from the main entrance of the Okefenokee swamp. We drove down there and rented a kayak so we both could go paddle the swamp. On the way down there, somewhere outside of waycross, we passed a mudding course, if that’s more your style.

    Overall, this is someplace that I probably wouldn’t come back to because I’ve done all the things that the park has to offer, and there are more parks to explore. It’s definitely worth a visit for a night or two, or as a jumping off point for other activities this part of the state has to offer.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2021

    Blythe Island Regional Park

    Best Kept Out-Of-The-Way Camping Experience

    My first reaction when arriving here?  What's with all of the long winding roads that seemingly lead to nowhere.  And oh, where are all the people?  Wow, was I in for a surprise!

    This little gem is located just about 15 minutes from Interstate 95 and you'll see some of the prettiest Georgia countryside as you make your way here.  Upon arrival, you'll follow the aforementioned endlessly well-paved roads of Blythe Island Regional Park until you get to the first of two open grasslands area, both in front of a small lake (perfect for letting your four legged furry creatures out to stretch their legs) that are each set off by clandestine group shelters (at least one of which had a fish cleaning area).

    Following this, I came across the first primitive campground (which I would have booked after I had visited!).  There's about 20 spots back here and they all offer supreme amounts of shade, a solid bit of privacy and space with enough bends and turns to make it feel like you have the place generally to yourself.

    My inside tip?  Book one of the 4-5 campsites that are furthest south and facing the water - simply SPLENDID views as the sun was sinking.  Second BIG tip?  Don't book these, if like me, crabs scare the bejesus out of you - as these oversized hard shelled spider-like creatures are all over the place.  While there, I was pleasantly interrupted by a half dozen or so deer.  So cool.

    Moving on, you'll reach the harbor after first passing several shelters that are available on a first-come, first-served basis.  There's a great boat launch here for the biggest of sea vessels and the views (and fishing) from this area, whether on the pier or nearby are simply fantastic.  There's tons of general park amenities - too many to go into detail (trust me, you'll be surprised and impressed).  

    The second campground, just past the park ranger station is comprised of a large loop and is basically designed for RV'ers.  Here too, there's solid space, privacy, shrubbery and shade.  There was a very good community vibe here and a couple games of bocce ball being had when we were there.  

    Most favorite thing at Blythe Island Regional Park?  The wild rabbits - they're everywhere in this place and so very friendly.  Brink a kayak or canoe, tons of mosquito repellant and sit back to enjoy this most amazing state-run regional park.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 11, 2025

    Deep Bend Landing

    Boondocks Camping Bliss

    Following up on my review from over 3 years ago, I’m adding a bunch of additional photos as well as an abbreviated post pointing out the HIGHS and LOWS of this backwoods hidden jewel of a campground.

    Highs: (1) Lush wilderness surroundings giving very good privacy between sites; (2) RV slots are nice and spacious, although some areas are not as level as others; (3) Easy to access 2 kayak / canoe / boat launch(es) makes getting into the Satilla River quick and simple; (4) Plenty of shade at all CG spots with tons of tree cover; (5) Nearby fresh-water lakes perfect for fishing; (6) Excellent peace & quiet – you’ll feel completely removed from civilization here; (7) Excellent FHUs; (8) Barely functional WiFi – yes, that’s a plus!; (9) Extremely hospitable Southern hospitality from the host (Ron) and camping community here; (10) Great launching pad for exploring either Jekyll or St. Simons Islands; (11) River house or cabins available to rent; (12) Excellent price for what you get creating great value

    Lows: (1) The entrance and backwoods roadways are fairly bad with deep ruts in them and when rainy, incredibly muddy; (2) No on-site bathrooms or showers is a major bummer; (3) Mosquitos, gnats and midges during the summer; (4) Nearest place to stock up on supplies is nearly 10 minutes away and even at that, it’s just a Dollar General and Waverly Minit Mart – you’ll need about 25 minutes to access the Winn-Dixie; (5) No nearby restaurants, so you’ll have to hike it back to Route 82 where you can find Scott’s BBQ & Grill, Village Snack Bar or Smoke’s Bar& Grill; (6)$20 for a bundle of firewood seems pretty steep

    Happy Camping!

  • carolyn
    Jan. 21, 2021

    Stephen C. Foster State Park Campground

    Remote location with amazing dark sky star gazing!

    This is off the beaten path but worth it. Make sure you have groceries before turning onto 177.  Once inside the camping area it is very quiet and peaceful. The sites are spread out pretty well and most have foliage between them to provide privacy. We were in 'back-in spot' #5.  Each site comes with fire pit and picnic table. They do sell firewood at the Trading Post along with a few essentials.  The "Dark Sky" designation was the draw for us and the night sky was indeed spectacular.  No bug issues for us as it was mid January however it was pretty chilly at night (30 degrees). The bathrooms were a short walk away however no heaters so on a cold weekend be prepared! A neighboring camper brought a dog that barked at every opportunity, but otherwise we really enjoyed our time at this park. There are nice flat walking trails, a great playground for kids, and canoes/boats for rent at the Trading Post to head out into the Okefenokee. Overall a great spot that we will definitely return to.

  • D
    Nov. 10, 2022

    Blythe Island Regional Park

    Blythe Campground

    This campground exceeded our expectations. The sites are shaded by trees, plenty of space in between each site and has a small concrete pad, picnic table, and fire pit. On the grounds there is saltwater/freshwater fishing, BUNNIES, a swimming lake, bath house, laundry, WiFi, hiking/biking trails, and a gated entrance that is locked after dark. Quick 10-15min drive into town. The cost for 6 nights was only $280. We highly recommend this place!!

Guide to Waycross

Tent camping options around Waycross, Georgia accommodate both established and wilderness experiences within the coastal plain ecosystem. The region's sandy soil creates well-draining campsites with pine forest coverage providing moderate shade throughout the year. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can occasionally drop below freezing, requiring appropriate seasonal gear for comfortable camping experiences.

What to do

**Wildlife observation: ** Campers at Okefenokee Wilderness Primitive Camping can witness diverse swamp ecosystems up close. One visitor described their experience as "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."

Trail riding: DirtCamp offers designated riding trails near the campsites, creating convenient access for motorsports enthusiasts. A camper reported "I really enjoyed staying here this pasted weekend have a great time riding the trails camp spot was amazing aswell!!"

Hunting: Seasonal hunting is permitted at Dixon Memorial WMA, making campsite availability contingent on hunting schedules. A visitor advised, "This is a hunt camp so be sure to check the season before going. I went in late December and had the spot to myself."

What campers like

Repeat visit potential: Regular campers appreciate consistent quality at DirtCamp. One such visitor shared, "I've stayed here two times so far and will be back again!"

Solitude: The remote locations of many Waycross area campgrounds provide privacy not found at more developed sites. At Dixon Memorial WMA, a camper noted they "had the spot to myself."

Platform camping: The elevated platforms at Okefenokee Wilderness Primitive Camping create a unique overnight experience above the swamp waters. A visitor described it as "an experience of a lifetime and although it was challenging for me at times, it was very rewarding."

What you should know

Access considerations: Many sites require specific transportation methods. For Okefenokee Wilderness camps, boat or hiking access is mandatory as no drive-up options exist.

Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas near Waycross provide minimal amenities. At Dixon Memorial WMA - Hunter Camp, the site offers "flat sandy ground. Perfect for pitching a tent and plenty of trees that would be good for hammocks," but lacks water, toilets, or trash service.

Weather preparedness: The subtropical climate creates frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer months, requiring proper rain gear and tarp setups. One camper at Dixon Memorial WMA noted, "It rained all night so I didn't get any photos before packing up."

Tips for camping with families

Wildlife education: The Okefenokee area provides exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities but requires proper safety protocols around alligators. A visitor documented their experience: "This 2 night/3 day kayaking and camping trip on the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia was filled with surprises."

Beginner-friendly options: For families new to camping, Catface Corner Campground offers more amenities like electric hookups and picnic tables while maintaining a natural setting.

Entertainment planning: Pack appropriate activities for children as most sites lack designated recreational facilities. DirtCamp visitors rated their camping experience highly, with one noting it was "Very awesome camping."

Tips from RVers

Site limitations: Most tent camping areas near Waycross restrict or don't accommodate RVs. Tent-specific areas like Gaskin Springs Campground lack hookups entirely.

Nearby alternatives: RVers seeking full hookups can find options at Catface Corner Campground with water, sewer, and electrical connections while still remaining close to the Waycross area attractions.

Road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites often consist of unpaved, sandy surfaces that may challenge larger vehicles. The Dixon Memorial WMA camper advised, "From US 1 take 177 east, look for the check station sign."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Waycross, GA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Waycross, GA is DirtCamp with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Waycross, GA?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 tent camping locations near Waycross, GA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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