Georgia Beach Camping: Where to Pitch Your Tent by the Sea

Ever dreamed of falling asleep to the sound of waves and waking up to a stunning sunrise over the Atlantic? Georgia’s coastline might be just the ticket. The Peach State offers some fantastic spots for beach camping, but here’s the catch – not all beaches allow camping directly on the sand.

Don’t worry, though! This guide covers where you can camp right by the waves and where you can still snag a great spot close enough to feel that sea breeze.

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Tybee Island: Close to the Shore

First stop: Tybee Island, the popular beach destination near Savannah. While you can’t camp directly on Tybee’s beaches, River’s End Campground is a great alternative that’s within walking distance of the shore.

At River’s End, you’re camping in comfort but still close enough to the beach to enjoy those early morning walks and evening sunsets. Check out the full Tybee Campground Guide here.

Little Tybee Island: Primitive & Private

For the more adventurous, there’s another option nearby. Grab a boat or kayak and head to Little Tybee Island for a true beach camping experience. It’s like having your own private island getaway!

Keep in mind that camping on Little Tybee is primitive – no facilities or amenities. Make sure you’re prepared for some real outdoor living, and keep in mind that if it doesn’t fit in a kayak, you won’t be able to take it.

I recommend these products for your trip:

• Coleman Sundome Camping Tent with Rainfly
• Three-Season Sleeping Bag for hot to cool weather
• Backpacking and Camping Stove System
• LED Headlamp
• Mountain House Adventure Weekender Kit (with 12 freeze-dried meals)

Cumberland Island: Beach Camping Paradise

If you’re set on camping with your toes in the sand, Cumberland Island National Seashore is the place to be. This island offers a range of campsites, including some right on the beach. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Sea Camp Campground: The most developed option, about a half-mile from the dock. You’ll find cold showers, drinking water, and flush toilets. It’s great for first-timers or those who aren’t sure about making the trek to the further campgrounds.
2. Stafford Beach Campground: For a more secluded experience that’s still relatively accessible, try Stafford Beach. It’s about 3.5 miles from the dock and offers a beautiful, quiet stretch of beach. There are cold showers, flush toilets, and potable water, but otherwise you’ll need to bring everything.
3. Backcountry Sites: Want to really get away from it all? Check out spots like Hickory Hill, Yankee Paradise, or Brickhill Bluff. These sites will give you true solitude and a chance to fully immerse yourself in nature.

Getting to Cumberland Island requires some planning. You’ll need to take a ferry from St. Marys, Georgia, and make reservations in advance. They limit visitors to preserve the island’s natural beauty, so book early, especially for peak seasons. If you have a day or two on the front or backend spend some time in town – Fun Things to Do with Kids in St. Marys has activities for everyone!

Pro tip: In addition to the other primitive camping gear I recommended above, a good backpack is essential for Cumberland Island, especially if you’re heading to Stafford Beach or the backcountry sites. I have and love this Tripole Colonel Backpack with a detachable day pack!

Jekyll Island: Camp Near the Famous Driftwood Beach

Jekyll Island is another coastal gem known for its stunning Driftwood Beach. While you can’t camp directly on the beach, the Jekyll Island Campground is just a short walk away from this unique attraction.

The campground offers sites for tents and RVs, all in a beautiful maritime forest under the live oak trees and Spanish moss. You’re not just near Driftwood Beach – you’re perfectly positioned to explore all of Jekyll Island’s attractions, from its historic district to its sea turtle center.

Sapelo Island: Group Camping Adventure

Got a group? Sapelo Island’s Cabretta Pioneer Campground is perfect for 10-25 people, making it ideal for family reunions or trips with friends.

You’ll find some basic amenities here – shelters, grills, picnic tables, a fire ring, and restrooms with cold showers. It’s a great balance of comfort and natural beauty.

To camp on Sapelo:

1. Make a reservation through Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources.
2. Take a ferry from the mainland. (20-30 minute trip)
3. Meet your duty officer host at the ferry for transportation to the campsite

Keep in mind that Sapelo is largely undeveloped, so bring everything you need for your stay.

Best Time for Camping in Georgia

Choosing when to go beach camping in Georgia can definitely affect your experience. Here’s a seasonal breakdown:

Summer (June-August):

• Pros: Perfect beach weather, warm water for swimming.
• Cons: It gets hot and humid. Prepare for some sweaty days and nights.
• Bug Alert: Mosquitos are out in force, and watch out for no-see-ums (tiny biting flies that can be a real nuisance).

Fall (September-November):

• Pros: Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, often still warm enough for swimming.
• Cons: Hurricane season peaks in September, so keep an eye on weather forecasts.
• Bug Situation: Better than summer, but still bring insect repellent.

Winter (December-February):

• Pros: Minimal bugs and quiet beaches, great for those who want some solitude.
• Cons: Too chilly for swimming, and some campgrounds might have limited services.

Spring (March-May):

• Pros: Pleasant temperatures, beautiful wildflowers, smaller crowds than summer.
• Cons: Can be rainy, and the water might still be cold for swimming.
• Bug Watch: Gnats become more active, especially in May.

Whether you’re setting up camp right on Cumberland Island’s sandy shores or enjoying a spot near the beach on Jekyll or Tybee, Georgia has beach camping options for every style of outdoor enthusiast. From wilderness experiences to camping with a few creature comforts, there’s something for everyone.

So pack your gear, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for some memorable Georgia beach camping. The sand might follow you home, but the memories will last a lifetime!

See how all of the Georgia beaches measure up in Georgia Beaches Ranked by a Local

More Georgia Camping Articles

• Brunswick GA Campgrounds – Tent and RV Camping
• Tybee Island Campground Guide (2025)
• The Ultimate Guide to Jekyll Island Camping (2025)
• Little Tybee Island, GA: A Coastal Georgia Adventure
• Coastal Georgia RV Resorts