Pioneer Campsite — Fort Morris State Historic Site

When the Continental Congress convened in 1776, the delegates recognized the importance of a fort to protect their growing seaport from the British. Soon afterwards, a low bluff on the Medway River at Sunbury was fortified and garrisoned by 200 patriots. When the British demanded the fort’s surrender on November 25, 1778, the defiant Col. John McIntosh replied, “Come and take it!” The British refused and withdrew back to Florida. Forty-five days later, they returned with a superior force, and on January 9, 1779, Fort Morris fell after a short but heavy bombardment.

Under the name of Fort Defiance, this bulwark was once again used against the British during the War of 1812, and Sunbury's harbor was guarded by armed barges. Today, visitors can stand within the earthwork remains and view scenic Saint Catherines Sound. A museum and film describe the colonial port of Sunbury and the site’s history.

Visitors may borrow binoculars and a field guide to go birding. Downy woodpeckers, pileated woodpeckers, goldfinches, wood storks, painted buntings, great egrets and many other coastal species can be seen.

Fort Morris is now open 7 days per week, 9am-5pm. The museum will be staffed Friday-Sunday. Guests can access the site for self-guided tours Monday-Thursday by paying a per vehicle fee at the collection box in the parking area.

For reservation inquiries please call 1-800-864-7275. For Park inquiries please contact the park at 912-884-5999.
A Parkpass is required for all vehicles. Price for parkpasses are not included with the reservation. ParkPass fees are as follow:
1-12 passenger vehicles $5 per day or $50 annual ParkPass;
13-30 passenger vehicles $30 per day or $75 annual ParkPass;
31 or more passenger vehicles $70 per day or $250 annual ParkPass;
Georgia active duty military/veterans $3.75 per day or $37.50 annual ParkPass.
Overnight guests pay only one fee for the duration of their stay.
The daily ParkPass is valid at all state parks visited the same day and is not valid at state historic sites.