Fort McAllister State Park
Explore a remarkably preserved Civil War earthwork fort, wander beneath Spanish moss oaks, and enjoy serene riverfront views at this historic Georgia ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Fort McAllister State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a remarkably preserved Civil War earthwork fort, wander beneath Spanish moss oaks, and enjoy serene riverfront views at this historic Georgia park.
"Time travel meets tranquil scenery at this historic Civil War site near Savannah."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the fort and trails. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be relentless, especially near wetlands. :bug:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Earthwork Fort
Fort Area
Explore one of the best-preserved Confederate earthwork forts, a unique Civil War site with impressive ramparts.
Spanish Moss Draped Oaks
Park Grounds
Wander beneath ancient oaks draped in ethereal Spanish moss, creating a picturesque Southern landscape.
Riverfront Views
Waterfront
Enjoy peaceful views of the Ogeechee River, perfect for picnics and capturing stunning sunset moments.
+1Wildlife Spotting
Campground & Trails
Encounter local wildlife like deer, armadillos, and even raccoons roaming freely throughout the park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds
Camping & Wildlife Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the fort and trails. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be relentless, especially near wetlands. :bug:
Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially during warmer months. :water_wave:
Check Park Office Hours
Arriving after closing? Information packets are usually available. :information_desk:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the fort and trails. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be relentless, especially near wetlands. :bug:
Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially during warmer months. :water_wave:
Check Park Office Hours
Arriving after closing? Information packets are usually available. :information_desk:
Embrace the Wildlife
Enjoy sightings of deer and armadillos, but be wary of bold raccoons. :raccoon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Fort McAllister State Park for its well-preserved Civil War history, beautiful natural scenery with Spanish moss-draped oaks, and peaceful riverfront views. The campground is noted for its privacy and wildlife encounters. However, some find the insect population (no-see-ums, black flies) to be a significant issue, and occasional closures of facilities can be inconvenient.
"I stayed at the backcountry/hike-in site 1 on April 22nd. Arrived after the park office had closed but it was pretty easy to figure out where I was going from the reservation packet they had left to the left of the entrance. No information about where to park for hike-in sites.
The hike was short but nice. The right-hand trail of the loop (the shortest way to site 1) is closed but it still took less than 20 minutes to get to the site. Site is pretty small with no fire ring and it is right next to the “lookout platform” (kinda disappointing- it’s only about 7 or 8 feet off of the ground) so if anyone wants to go there they will be traipsing through your campsite. But the hike in sites are far away from the main campground so not sure that many people would be interested (no one came through my site in the 12 hours or so I was there). The location is nice, right at the edge of a wetland area with a small waterway right in front of the lookout center, but the bugs are relentless. The no see ums were so bad I could not enjoy my dinner on the lookout platform like I had hoped, and the campground rules state that you are not allowed to have a fire unless it is in a designated ring so I spent 99% of my time there in my tent hiding from the bugs.
Maybe it was just the time of year, but I don’t think I would stay here again. Also, they charge you a parking/access fee and I think that’s pretty crap to be charged for that when you are already paying for camping."
Laura Eaton
"Really awesome park. We watched the video before wandering the grounds finding the numbers on the pamphlet and explored the inside museum. Lots to see! Take water!"
Molly F
"This was a great park. The day we arrived the Fort tour and museum were free!! So we took the tour, very cool and informative. The campground is pretty spacious and some privacy between campsites. There were 2 bath houses including showers and pretty sure laundry was available to. We encountered some wildlife here also! Deer came really close and had a random armadillo!! There are raccoons to and honestly they were quite annoying! We didn’t feed them anything and had NO food out but they wouldn’t leave us alone! We have a truck camper and they were rambling outside and on our truck till 3am 🤨. At one point when we were enjoying our campfire I bet 20 were circling us. They aren’t scared of you either meaning you’re not running them off."
Rhonda Astor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort McAllister State Park is located about 30 miles south of Savannah, Georgia. The easiest way to get there is by car, taking GA-17 South. The drive typically takes around 40-50 minutes.
Public transportation options to Fort McAllister State Park are very limited. It is primarily a destination best reached by private vehicle.
There is ample parking available within the park, including designated areas for day visitors and campers. If you are using the hike-in campsites, clarify parking arrangements with park staff.
The closest major airport is Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), located approximately 35 miles north of the park.
Yes, you can use GPS navigation systems. Simply input 'Fort McAllister State Park' or its address to get directions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee per vehicle for day use. Camping fees are separate and vary based on the type of site. Some visitors have noted it feels like an additional charge on top of camping fees.
The park is generally open daily from sunrise to sunset. The museum and visitor center may have specific operating hours, so it's advisable to check the official park website or call ahead.
It is highly recommended to book campsites in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends, as they can fill up quickly. Day entry usually does not require advance booking unless there are special events.
Information on discounts for seniors, military, or other groups is best obtained directly from the park office or their official website.
Typically, an entrance fee is required for all visitors entering the park, whether for day use or camping. Some visitors have reported free fort tours on certain days.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the well-preserved Civil War earthwork fort, visit the museum, walk trails under Spanish moss-draped oaks, enjoy riverfront views, and spot local wildlife. Camping and recreational activities are also available.
Yes, it's a great place for families. Kids can explore the fort, play in designated areas, and enjoy the natural surroundings. The park is generally accessible with sidewalks.
Yes, there are trails for hiking and walking, offering opportunities to explore the park's natural beauty and historical sites. Some trails may be closed seasonally.
You can commonly see deer, armadillos, and various bird species. Raccoons are also present and can be quite bold.
Many areas of the park, including the fort's main features and some trails, are accessible via sidewalks, making it a good option for those with mobility challenges.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within Fort McAllister State Park. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics or prepare meals at their campsites.
The nearest dining options are in Richmond Hill, Georgia, a short drive from the park. You'll find a variety of casual eateries and restaurants there.
Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings at campsites. Barbecuing is also allowed in designated areas or at campsites.
Yes, the park has several designated picnic areas, often equipped with tables and grills, offering scenic spots to enjoy a meal outdoors.
It's crucial to store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife, especially raccoons, which can be persistent. Use bear-proof containers or secure food inside vehicles.
📸 📸 Photography
The fort's earthworks, Spanish moss-draped oaks, riverfront at sunset, and the marshlands offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Late afternoons and evenings provide beautiful golden hour light for capturing the park's scenery. Early mornings can also offer soft light and fewer crowds.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's essential to check the park's official regulations or contact the park office directly regarding drone operation.
Yes, wildlife photography is popular here. Remember to maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, a wide-angle lens for the fort's structures, and a tripod for low-light conditions would be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The park's natural setting, with open spaces and trails, allows kids to run and play. The campground offers amenities like a zipline playground, adding extra fun for younger visitors. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for insect repellent to ensure a comfortable experience. 🏕️ Campers
📸 Photographers
+1 The park's natural landscapes, including marshlands, offer diverse scenes. Visiting during the golden hours of late afternoon or early morning will yield the best light for capturing the park's atmospheric charm. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Fort
Many visitors find the earthwork design particularly interesting, as it's a unique type of fortification. To enhance your visit, consider following the numbered pamphlet available at the park, which guides you through the key historical points.
Camping and Campground Experience
However, be prepared for potential wildlife encounters, particularly with raccoons, which can be quite bold and persistent, even at night.
Nature and Recreation
+1 The ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss create a quintessential Southern atmosphere, making it a picturesque spot for photography and relaxation. For recreation, the park offers a boat launch area and has been noted for having a zipline playground, adding an element of fun for younger visitors.
Hiking trails wind through the park, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural environment and discover its diverse flora and fauna. 
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