Fort McAllister State Park Campground Review: Nature Meets History

Fort McAllister State Park is a beautiful place on the coast of Georgia. It has big oak trees and lots of history. The park was important during the Civil War. It fought off seven attacks from Union ships. Now, it is a peaceful place where people can learn about history and enjoy nature.

Fort McAllister History

Fort McAllister is near Richmond Hill, Georgia. It was built in 1861 during the Civil War. The fort was made to protect Savannah from Union ships. It was special because it was made of earth, which made it strong against cannon fire. The fort survived many attacks from Union ships during the war.

On December 13, 1864, Union soldiers led by General William T. Sherman took over the fort. This was part of Sherman’s famous March to the Sea. After taking Fort McAllister, Sherman was able to capture Savannah. He then gave Savannah to President Abraham Lincoln as a Christmas present.

Fort McAllister was very important for protecting Savannah and the areas inland. When you visit the park, you can see old cannons and parts of vehicles from the war. These help visitors understand what the fort was like during the Civil War.

The fort had special underground areas called bastions. These were hard for enemies to see because they looked like regular soil from the outside. Bastions helped soldiers defend the fort better.

Visiting Fort McAllister today is a great way to learn about history. You can see how the fort was built and imagine what life was like for soldiers during the Civil War. The park also has nice nature areas where you can go for walks and enjoy the outdoors.

Campground Amenities

There is a big picnic area with nice views of the river. This is a good spot to eat with family and friends. The area also has playgrounds for kids to have fun.

People who like water activities can use the boat ramp to put boats, kayaks, and canoes in Redbird Creek. There is also a fishing dock for people who want to fish.

The park has many palm trees and palmettos. This makes it look like a marsh. It is a good place for watching birds, taking pictures, and enjoying nature.

The park has a Civil War Museum. This museum has old things from the fort and information about its history. Visitors can learn about the furnace, bombproof barracks, and palisades that helped protect the fort during the war.

Available Campsites

The park has many places for tents and caravans. These spots are not too close to each other. There is space between them. Because it is in nature, you might see animals like squirrels, raccoons, and deer. At night, if you use a flashlight, you might see animal eyes looking at you. These are often raccoons.

There are also Backcountry Campsites. These are cheaper places to stay. They are in a different part of the park, near a hiking trail called Redbird Creek Trail.

The main campground has more things for campers. The tent areas are a bit higher and have soil. Each spot has electricity, a picnic table, and a small water tap.

The toilets and showers are close to the campsites and are clean. There is also a washing machine near the toilets. This campground has everything campers need.

You can find prices for Fort McAllister State Historic Park on the national parks website. The website also has a map of the tent and caravan spots. You can check if there are free spots and make reservations there.

Campground Reservation Process and Tips

To reserve a spot at Fort McAllister State Park Campground, here are some helpful tips:

• Book early. Fort McAllister is popular, so make reservations ahead of time to get the dates you want.Check the park website. It has information about campsites, prices, and availability.
• Pick the right campsite. Think about what you need, like being close to bathrooms or playgrounds. Also consider the size of your tent or RV.
• Know the rules. Read about quiet hours, check-in and check-out times, and pet rules. This helps everyone have a good time.
• Be ready to make your reservation. Have your payment information and personal details ready. It is good to have backup dates in case your first choice is not available.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall are great times to visit Fort McAllister. The weather is nice and comfortable. The trees and plants look beautiful during these seasons. It is a good time to explore the park and enjoy outdoor activities.

How to Get to the Campground?

The campground is south of Savannah on the Ogeechee River. It is on Savage Island. You can get there using Savage Island Road.

If you arrive after the park closes, call ahead. They will give you a code to open the gate and get in.

• From Savannah, Georgia: Take I-95 South to Exit 90 for Richmond Hill. Turn left on Ford Avenue (GA-144). Go east for about 10 miles. Turn left on Fort McAllister Road. Follow signs to the park entrance.
• From Brunswick, Georgia: Take I-95 North to Exit 90 for Richmond Hill. Turn right on Ford Avenue (GA-144). Go east for about 10 miles. Turn left on Fort McAllister Road. Follow signs to the park entrance.

FAQs

What activities can visitors enjoy at this Georgia State Park?

The park offers many activities. Visitors can learn about history, watch birds, go boating, have picnics, and fish. There is also archery and tours of the fort.

Can guests stay overnight in the park?

Guests can stay overnight in cabins. These cabins are on stilts near the marsh, which is a special experience.

What is the historical significance of this park?

The park is important in history. It was attacked seven times during the Civil War but did not fall until 1864. It is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Are there any educational opportunities at the park?

There are guided tours that teach visitors about the park’s history. These tours talk about General Sherman, the Civil War, and how Henry Ford helped develop the park.

What natural features are notable in this park?

The park has big live oak trees and is next to the Great Ogeechee River near the Atlantic Ocean. This makes it good for watching birds and seeing coastal views.

Is there any historical architecture within the park?

There is old architecture in the park, like a plantation cottage from the Civil War. There are also old artillery placements.

What are the amenities for outdoor activities?

For outdoor activities, the park has a fishing pier and a causeway. These are good for fishing, bird watching, and enjoying the views.