Discover Savannah's Natural Wonders: Top 5 Campgrounds and Hiking Trails

Amidst the historic charm and vibrant culture of Savannah, Georgia, lies a treasure trove of natural beauty waiting to be explored. From lush forests and scenic rivers to tranquil marshes and pristine beaches, Savannah offers outdoor enthusiasts a paradise of camping grounds and hiking trails. Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or an extended adventure, these top five campgrounds and hiking trails promise unforgettable experiences and breathtaking vistas.

Top 5 Campgrounds in Savannah:

1. Skidaway Island State Park Located just 15 miles southeast of downtown Savannah, Skidaway Island State Park offers a serene retreat amidst moss-draped live oaks and salt marshes. The campground features spacious campsites equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and electrical hookups, as well as modern amenities like restrooms, showers, and a dump station. Explore miles of scenic trails that wind through maritime forests, salt marshes, and along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway. Don't miss the chance to spot wildlife such as deer, egrets, and herons, or take a kayak or paddleboard out on the water for a closer look at the area's natural beauty.

2. Red Gate Campground & RV Resort Situated on 32 acres of pristine woodlands just minutes from downtown Savannah, Red Gate Campground & RV Resort offers a peaceful oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Choose from tent sites, RV sites, or cozy cabins, each surrounded by towering pines and lush foliage. Amenities include a swimming pool, playground, laundry facilities, and a camp store stocked with essentials. Spend your days exploring nearby attractions like Wormsloe Historic Site or Fort Pulaski National Monument, or simply relax by the campfire and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

3. Fort McAllister State Park History meets nature at Fort McAllister State Park, home to one of the best-preserved Civil War fortifications in the country. The campground offers tent and RV sites nestled beneath the canopy of towering oak trees, as well as cozy cabins overlooking the tranquil Ogeechee River. Explore miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through dense woodlands, along marshes teeming with birdlife, and past the historic earthwork fortifications. Cast a line in the river for a chance to catch bass, catfish, and other freshwater fish, or simply relax and soak in the beauty of the natural surroundings.

4. Savannah South KOA Holiday Conveniently located just off Interstate 95, Savannah South KOA Holiday offers easy access to the city's attractions while providing a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature. The campground features spacious RV sites, cozy cabins, and tent sites surrounded by towering pines and lush greenery. Amenities include a swimming pool, dog park, playground, and a camp store stocked with groceries, camping supplies, and souvenirs. Take a short drive into downtown Savannah to explore historic landmarks like Forsyth Park, River Street, and City Market, or stay onsite and enjoy the campground's numerous recreational activities and events.

5. River's End Campground & RV Park Perched on the banks of the Savannah River on Tybee Island, River's End Campground & RV Park offers a unique camping experience with easy access to both the beach and the city. Choose from waterfront RV sites, cozy cabins, or tent sites surrounded by lush vegetation and towering palms. Amenities include a swimming pool, hot tub, playground, and a fishing pier where you can cast a line and reel in your catch of the day. Explore nearby attractions like Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, Fort Pulaski National Monument, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views of the river and marshland.

Top 5 Hiking Trails in Savannah:

1. Skidaway Island State Park Trails Skidaway Island State Park is home to several scenic hiking trails that showcase the area's diverse ecosystems and natural beauty. The Big Ferry Trail is a favorite among visitors, winding through maritime forests, salt marshes, and along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, egrets, and osprey along the way, or take a leisurely stroll along the Sandpiper Nature Trail for panoramic views of the marshland and tidal creeks.

2. Savannah-Ogeechee Canal Trail The Savannah-Ogeechee Canal Trail offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, winding along the historic towpath of the former canal. The trail passes through dense woodlands, past scenic waterways, and offers glimpses of historic structures and artifacts from the canal's heyday. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the trail and enjoy the tranquility of nature, or pack a picnic and relax by the water's edge as you watch for wildlife such as turtles, herons, and alligators.

3. Fort McAllister State Park Trails Fort McAllister State Park is home to several scenic hiking trails that wind through dense woodlands, along the tranquil Ogeechee River, and past the historic earthwork fortifications. The Redbird Creek Trail offers a leisurely stroll through maritime forests and along the marshland, while the Fort Trail takes you on a journey through history as you explore the Civil War-era fortifications and artillery batteries. Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, armadillos, and bald eagles along the way.

4. Skidaway Narrows Trail Located on the campus of the Skidaway Institute of Oceanography, the Skidaway Narrows Trail offers a unique hiking experience with stunning views of the marshland and tidal creeks. The trail winds through maritime forests, past scenic overlooks, and offers glimpses of the area's diverse wildlife, including osprey, herons, and fiddler crabs. Take a leisurely walk along the trail and enjoy the tranquility of nature, or bring your camera and capture stunning photographs of the marshland and waterways.

5. Tybee Island North Beach Birding Trail Tybee Island North Beach Birding Trail offers a unique hiking experience with stunning views of the beach and tidal marshland. The trail winds through dense woodlands, along sandy shores, and past scenic overlooks where you can spot a variety of bird species, including shorebirds, seabirds, and migratory species. Bring your binoculars and bird guidebook and see how many species you can spot along the way, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll and soak in the beauty of the natural surroundings.

Savannah, Georgia, offers outdoor enthusiasts a paradise of camping grounds and hiking trails, each offering its own unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath the canopy of towering oaks, exploring historic fortifications, or hiking along scenic waterways, Savannah promises unforgettable experiences and breathtaking vistas for visitors of all ages. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the natural wonders of Savannah, Georgia, on your next outdoor adventure.