Be the first to Martha - I found this campground through the Georgia State Parks Web site, and I camped there in January 2004.
Campground Review
Stephen C. Foster State Park is the western entrance to the Okefenokee Swamp (southeast corner of Georgia). It is the only camping area that is fully within the swamp. Our site, which was considered small because there was not a long pull-through area for vehicles, cost $17 per night. Prices range from $17 to $22 per night depending on the site size. Included at all sites are fire rings, picnic tables, potable water sources, electric outlets, and hook-up for cable tv, which we consider a sin when camping.
There are two camping areas, one more suitable for tent camping and small RVs, the other for larger RVs. Both areas have lots of trees and shade, with some sites being more secluded and some more open. Each area has a comfort station with hot showers, toilets, sinks, hot-air hand driers, and liquid soap dispensers, which were always full. In addition, there are handicap accessible sites located adjacent to the comfort stations with paved paths running to the station. The park has a small museum with displays that focus on the swamp, its flora, fauna, and human history. There is a small store within the main office where one may purchase forgotten essentials as well as souvenirs. Located in the area of the main office is a playground area and individual and group picnic sites. There are also fully stocked cabins that can be rented. Two main walking trails are found within the park, one running through a pine forest area, the other through swamp.
The highlight of this park though is the swamp itself. A guided boat tour of the swamp is offered throughout the day ($6 children/$10 adults). The park rents motorized john boats, canoes, and kayaks for exploring the swamp, or you can bring your own watercraft. We rented kayaks ($20 for 8 hours) and spent the entire day weaving in and out among cypress groves seeing a variety of birds, turtles, and alligators. As we were returning in the late afternoon, we spent 30 minutes watching vultures (30-40) coming in to roost among trees located along the main water channel. It was an amazing experience and a perfect time of the year (winter) for camping in a swamp. Summers are crowded, hot, humid, and insect plagued. One should plan to go in the fall, winter, or spring.
