You have several options on the Georgia coast for camping in the 140 miles or so between Savannah, Georgia and Jacksonville, Florida. There are still many undeveloped and remote areas on the barrier islands of Georgia, where camping and nature adventures await. Other areas along the coast are more developed, with modern resorts. Georgia has established a strong tourism industry while still managing to keep its charm.
Geography
The barrier islands that make up the Georgia coast are for the most part unspoiled. The islands are reached by bridges and, in some case, ferries, which to some extent may have kept them from becoming commercialized. The islands are often separated from the mainland only by a river or very small sound. They have moss-draped live-oak trees, pineapple trees and many other semi-tropical plants and animals. There are many wildlife areas, state parks and other public land areas on the barrier islands that provide countless recreational opportunities. Marshes provide wildlife habitat for land and sea animals, as well as fishing opportunities.
Secret Islands
What used to be one of the most well-kept secrets of the Georgia coast, Cumberland Island National Seashore is quickly becoming better known. The island on the southern coast of the state is an isolated area that appears as it might have looked hundreds of years ago to Spanish explorers. Other than ruins from an 18th century home and a mansion built by the Carnegies, much of the island is unmarked by human tracks. The island is reachable only by ferry or private boat from the visitors center at St. Marys and only a certain number of people are allowed onto the island, so be sure to make reservations ahead of time, both for the ferry and camping.
There are two campsites with restrooms and showers. Backcountry primitive campsites are also available. There is no water, so you'll have to carry your own. There are more than 100 miles of trails through the marshes and 30 miles of unspoiled beach to explore. You can rent bicycles in the ferry area if you don't bring your own.
Types
Interstate 95 runs along the coast from Savannah to Jacksonville but is several miles inland. Campgrounds--mostly RV type--are along the Interstate and offer a quick stop for the night or as a base for further exploration. Close to the beaches are more developed campgrounds, many of which are called "resorts," that offer more amenities and services. Several state parks, wildlife areas and some cities have campgrounds that have electricity and water available for tent or RV camping. Beach camping is usually primitive and not all that common on the Georgia coast. Back some feet into the woods you'd be more protected from the wind but then you may have more bug problems, so be sure to come supplied with bug repellent.
Water Recreation
Part of the fun of camping on the coast is access to the water. Several outfitters, some at campgrounds, offer canoe and kayak trips down the river to the ocean. These are usually day trips but some are more extensive. Ocean kayaking is also a popular sport among campers on the coast. You can rent a kayak and go off on your own or take part in a tour or group trip. If you're not experienced with a kayak, a group trip would be best. Canoes are generally limited to inland waters, as they are not stable enough on ocean water.
Beach Activities
Coastal camping offers easy access to beach activities. Walking is the most popular activity but there is also wind surfing, board surfing, swimming and games like volleyball or Frisbee. Campgrounds often offer these games and activities along with the camping experience, especially as you get closer to the beach. There are many state parks along the beach as well that have trails both on the beach and more inland. Some of these trails allow horseback riding but most are for walking or bicycling.
Areas
Tybee Island in the north and Jekyll Island, about midway on the coast, are two of the more developed, tourist-type resort areas. Tybee is more old-fashioned, while Jekyll is more trendy. Both have many restaurants, nightclubs and other social events, as well as great beaches. There are usually organized beach activities of some kind going on, which might include a beach volleyball tournament or Frisbee golf.
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