The Ultimate Guide to Jekyll Island Camping (2024)

Best Time To Go

If you’re thinking about planning a camping trip to Jekyll Island, it’s important to consider the best times to visit. Jekyll Island is a popular place, so timing can make a big difference in your experience.

Spring and fall are often considered the best times to visit Jekyll Island. In the spring, the island comes alive with vibrant flowers and pleasant temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Fall brings cooler weather and fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful and relaxed camping experience. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these seasons can also bring some unpredictable weather, so be sure to check the latest info before your trip.

Summer is the peak season for Jekyll Island, with warm weather and plenty of activities to enjoy. This is when the island is at its liveliest, with events and festivals happening regularly. However, the downside is that the island can get quite crowded, and camping spots may be harder to come by.

Winter is the quietest time on the island, with fewer visitors and a more peaceful atmosphere. While the weather can be cooler, it’s still a great time for camping if you prefer a more solitary experience. Just be prepared for the possibility of some facilities being closed during this time.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Jekyll Island depends on your preferences and what kind of experience you’re looking for.

Whether you enjoy the buzz of the peak season or the tranquility of the off-season, Jekyll Island has something to offer year-round.

Jekyll Island Campground

The Jekyll Island Campground is a great place to set up camp and enjoy all that the island has to offer.

Nestled among the live oaks and just a short stroll from the Clam Creek Picnic Area, this campground has everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

At the camp store, you can find all the essentials, from groceries to camping gear, so you won’t have to worry if you forget something.

The campsite itself offers plenty of room for your tent or RV, and each site comes with a picnic table, fire ring, and access to bath houses.

If you’re bringing an RV, you’ll be pleased to know that there are full hook-ups and pull-through sites available, as well as a designated RV park with all the amenities you could need.

For those who prefer a more rustic experience, there are also primitive tent sites available, perfect if you want to truly connect with nature. There is running water available at the primitive camp sites, too, which is a great perk.

No matter where you choose to stay, you’ll have access to a boat ramp for easy water access.

When it comes to the practicalities, the camping fee is reasonable ($36 per day for primitive and $51 per day for RV sites), and you’ll even have access to free WiFi during your stay.

With all these amenities and the beautiful surroundings, the Jekyll Island Campground is a top choice for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing and fun camping trip.

Things To Do

Jekyll Island is a great place with so much to offer, especially when it comes to things to do. From exploring pristine beaches to discovering fascinating history, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island.

Let’s dive into some of the fantastic activities and attractions that make Jekyll Island a great destination for a memorable vacation.

For a complete list of our favorite things to do on Jekyll Island, check out the post!

Driftwood Beach

Driftwood Beach is a must-see attraction during Jekyll Island camping, and the good news is that it’s within walking distance from the campground. In fact, it’s just a short walk away!

This unique beach is famous for its hauntingly beautiful driftwood trees and serene atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply soaking in the stunning coastal views.

Whether you’re an avid photographer, nature enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful place to unwind, Driftwood Beach is a wonderful destination to explore during your stay on Jekyll Island.

Insider Tip: Be sure to check out the Jekyll Island Tide Chart before you head to Driftwood Beach. It is much more accessible at low tide.

Go for a Bike Ride

One of the best ways to explore Jekyll Island is by taking a bike ride along the island’s extensive network of bike paths and trails.

The bike trails cover the entire island, offering a convenient and scenic way to see the sights and get some exercise at the same time.

With the gentle ocean breeze in your hair and the beautiful surroundings to enjoy, biking on Jekyll Island is an excellent way to experience the island’s natural beauty and charming atmosphere.

Go Fishing

For those who love to fish, Jekyll Island camping offers a fantastic opportunity to cast a line and reel in some big catches.

The island features a popular fishing pier where both novice anglers and seasoned fishermen can try their luck. The fishing pier provides a convenient and accessible spot to enjoy a relaxing day of fishing, surrounded by the beauty of the coastal landscape.

Whether you’re hoping to catch dinner or simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the waves, the fishing pier on Jekyll Island is a great place to spend a leisurely day by the water.

Visit the Historic District

Jekyll Island is home to several historic sites that offer a glimpse into the island’s rich past. One such site is the Jekyll Island Club National Historic Landmark District, which can be accessed by driving or biking from the campground.

This historic district was once an exclusive retreat for America’s wealthiest families, including the Rockefellers and Vanderbilts, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Visitors can explore the grand, restored buildings, such as the Jekyll Island Club Hotel, and learn about the island’s Gilded Age history through guided tours.

Another significant historic site is the Horton House, one of the oldest tabby-constructed buildings in Georgia. Located .7 miles from the campground it is walkable or an easy bike ride. The Horton House was built in the 18th century and served as the residence of Major William Horton, a key figure in Georgia’s colonial history.

Visitors can tour the ruins of the house, which provide insight into the island’s colonial past and the early days of European settlement in the region.

Mosaic, a museum and welcome center, offers a comprehensive overview of Jekyll Island’s history, including its indigenous roots and the development of the island as a winter retreat for the elite.

The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs that highlight the island’s diverse cultural heritage and natural history.

These historic sites on Jekyll Island provide a fascinating look into the island’s evolution over the centuries and are well worth a visit for anyone interested in history and heritage.

Go to St. Simons Island

St. Simons Island has a lot to offer for a day trip adventure.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, you can explore the St. Simons Lighthouse and Museum to learn about the island’s history and enjoy stunning views of the area. The lighthouse is a cool historic building and you can climb to the top for an awesome view of the island and the ocean.

Saint Simons Island Pier — St. Simons Island Pier

If you’re up for a leisurely stroll or bike ride, the St. Simons Island Pier and Village area is a great spot to visit. There, you can find cute shops, tasty places to eat, and a nice atmosphere to enjoy. The village area has a lot of history and charm, and you can take a walk along the pier to enjoy the coastal views.

Take a break from cooking at your campsite by enjoying a meal at one of the great restaurants on St. Simons Island.

Nature lovers will appreciate Gould’s Inlet, a peaceful spot where you can observe wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. This is a nice place to take a walk on the beach and maybe even spot some interesting birds and marine life.

angel statue in cemetary of Christ Church on St Simons Island — Christ Church

For those who enjoy history and architecture, a visit to Christ Church and the Wesley Memorial & Gardens provides insight into the island’s religious and cultural heritage.

All in all, St. Simons Island is a wonderful place to spend a day exploring, relaxing, and soaking up the coastal atmosphere. A full list of things to do at St. Simons can be found here.

Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center

Sea turtle being helped at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island

One of the coolest places to visit on Jekyll Island is the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. This place is all about helping injured and sick sea turtles get better so they can go back to the ocean.

When you visit, you can learn all about these amazing creatures and the work that goes into protecting them.

At the center, you can see the sea turtles up close and learn about their lives and the challenges they face. They also have really cool exhibits that teach you about the ocean and the animals that call it home.

Sea Turtle at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island

If you’re lucky, you might even get to see some baby sea turtles!

The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is a super interesting and educational place to visit, and it’s a great way to support the conservation of these incredible animals.

Play a Round of Golf

If you’re into golf, Jekyll Island is the place to be! With 63 holes on the island itself (plus many more close by), Jekyll is a golfer’s dream come true. The Jekyll Island Golf Club is the state’s largest public golf resort where you will find three 18-hole courses plus the historic Great Dunes 9-hole course built in 1926.

The courses are well-maintained and offer a fun challenge for golfers. Plus, the coastal views and lush greenery make for an awesome backdrop as you play.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, playing golf on Jekyll Island is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and have some fun. The island’s golf courses provide a fantastic opportunity to tee off and soak in the natural beauty of the coastal Georgia region.

Go to the Water Park

Sign for Summer Waves water park on Jekyll Island

If you’re visiting Jekyll Island in the summer, you’ve got to check out the Summer Waves Water Park. It’s a super cool place to splash around and have fun with your family and friends.

The water park has all sorts of awesome water slides and rides. There’s a big wave pool where you can bob up and down in the waves just like you’re at the beach. If you’re feeling daring, you can zoom down the big water slides and race your friends to the bottom.

For the little ones, there’s a special area with gentler slides and fountains where they can play safely. And if you need a break from the excitement, you can chill out in a comfy lounge chair or grab a snack at the food stand.

So, if you’re looking to cool off on a hot summer day, Summer Waves Water Park is the place to be!

Looking for more great camping spots?

Before you go…

If you’re planning a trip to Jekyll Island, we have lots of posts that you’ll find helpful. Check out all of our blog posts on this beautiful barrier island!

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The Ultimate Guide to Jekyll Island Camping (2024)

Best Time To Go

Jekyll Island Campground