RV Camping Near Savannah, Georgia

Quick Definition

Savannah is one of America's most compelling RV destinations—a place where Spanish moss, historic squares, and salt-marsh beauty converge with genuine hospitality. With 383,000 residents and over 14 million annual visitors, the city has perfected the art of drawing travelers. For RV campers, Savannah offers something rare: authentic historical tourism combined with coastal lowcountry ecology, all anchored by the I-95/I-16 corridor that makes the region a natural hub for snowbirds and adventure seekers.

Here's the reality: you can't park your RV downtown. The historic district—with its iconic Forsyth Park, River Street, and 22 historic squares—sits in a walkable, car-free core. But that's actually a feature, not a bug. The best strategy is to base yourself 12–25 miles out at a full-service park, then use rideshare, shuttles, or a quick Uber ride to explore downtown for a few hours. It costs less than parking and gives you flexibility.

From your RV camp, you'll experience the complete Savannah package: early morning walks through the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, day trips to Fort Pulaski National Monument to see 1862 Civil War earthworks, afternoon swims at Tybee Island's wide public beach, nature trails through Skidaway Island's maritime forest, and the unforgettable live oak avenue at Wormsloe Historic Site—those massive draped oaks have been photographed by millions but feel personal when you're standing under them.

This guide covers every major RV park option within 25 miles, the best 5-day itinerary, practical logistics, and cost math. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning snowbird, you'll find Savannah rewards RV campers with accessibility, natural beauty, and enough history to fill weeks. Start with Coastal Georgia RV Parks if you want a broader regional overview.

TL;DR

• Park-and-shuttle model works best. Base yourself at a full-service KOA or state park, then Uber/Lyft into the historic district for 2–3 hours at a time.
• Top 3 parks: Savannah South KOA (20 miles SW, full amenities, pool, 50-amp); Skidaway Island State Park (12 miles, nature-forward, $25–30/night); River's End Campground (Tybee Island, closest to beach, partial hookups).
• St. Patrick's Day is a mega-event. Book 6+ months ahead if March 17 is your target—rates double and parks fill weeks in advance. Savannah's celebration is the second-largest in the US after New York.
• Best seasons: March–May and September–October. Spring is peak (wildflowers, mild temps, long daylight); fall brings cooler mornings and fewer families.
• Summer heat is real. June through August tops out at 90°F+. Plan morning walks and beach afternoons. The heat is why snowbirds typically skip May–August.
• Hurricane season: June–November. Understand your evacuation options before arrival. Most parks have plans in place, but it's your responsibility to know the route.
• Cost range: $25–65/night. State parks run $25–32, private KOA-style parks $45–65. Budget weekend getaways are very doable.
• Scarcity of full-hookup parks near downtown. The closest parks with 50-amp hookups are 10–15 miles out, which is why early booking (especially Oct–April snowbird season) is critical. Check Georgia RV Parks for statewide options.

Where to RV Camp Near Savannah

Savannah South KOA (20 miles southwest of downtown)

The gold standard for RV convenience and family amenities. Located just off I-95 near Richmond Hill, this KOA offers 50-amp full hookups, large pull-through sites, a heated indoor pool, and a recreational hall. Nightly rates run $45–65 depending on season and hookup level. The park is well-maintained, accepts pets, and provides dependable Wi-Fi. It's not the closest park to downtown, but it's the best choice if you want resort-style amenities, easy highway access, and a reliable dump station. Book early for weekends and holiday periods. RV length is typically accommodated up to 45 feet.

Richmond Hill KOA (15 miles south)

Very similar profile to Savannah South—both are established KOA properties with 50-amp service, pull-throughs, pools, and strong management. Richmond Hill is slightly closer to downtown and sits in a residential area with decent walkability to local restaurants. Rates: $42–60/night. If Savannah South is booked, this is your immediate backup. Pets welcome; Wi-Fi included.

Skidaway Island State Park (12 miles south)

This is the nature-first choice. Skidaway offers 90 campsites (water/electric only, no 50-amp service) set within a 588-acre maritime forest. Rates are a steal at $25–30/night. The park is adjacent to the University of Georgia's marine research institute and features two excellent nature trails: Big Ferry (3.0 miles, boardwalk through tidal marsh) and Sandpiper (2.5 miles, upland forest). There's also the Diamond Causeway scenic drive—a 1.5-mile loop perfect for evening walks or sunrise photography. Pets are allowed. The tradeoff: no full hookups, no Wi-Fi, and it's a more rugged camping experience. Ideal for travelers who came to hike and observe salt-marsh ecology rather than maximize comforts. Book via gastateparks.org/skidaway-island.

Fort McAllister State Park (25 miles south)

Fort McAllister is the gem for Civil War history buffs. The park preserves a Confederate coastal fortification with reconstructed earthworks, exhibits, and guided tours. Campsites are limited (63 total), with water/electric service and basic amenities. Rates: $25–32/night. The surrounding landscape is salt marsh and river oak forest—beautiful and quiet. Pets welcome. The downside is distance: at 25 miles, it's the farthest option, making day trips into downtown impractical. Better suited for a dedicated fort visit or a slower-paced 2–3 night stay. Book and learn more at gastateparks.org/fort-mcallister.

River's End Campground (Tybee Island, 18 miles east)

The closest option to the beach. River's End offers 100+ sites with partial hookups (30-amp service in most areas, limited 50-amp), full Wi-Fi, and a maritime vibe. Nightly rates: $40–60. The beach is about 2 miles away by car or bike, and the historic Tybee Island Lighthouse is walkable from the park. Pet-friendly. The atmosphere is more casual and beach-focused than the KOAs—you'll meet plenty of families and long-term visitors. If beach access is your priority, this is the best base. Check availability well in advance during summer weekends.

Garden City RV Park (10–15 miles northwest of downtown)

Part of the Port Wentworth industrial corridor, Garden City is less scenic than island options but offers solid amenities: 50-amp hookups, pull-throughs, Wi-Fi, and reasonable rates ($35–48/night). It's one of the closest parks to the historic district, making downtown Uber trips very short and cheap. Pets welcome. Not a destination in itself, but highly practical for business travelers or those who want minimal drive time to downtown attractions. Less crowded than the KOAs.

I-95 North Savannah RV (12 miles northwest)

Another Highway-corridor option with 50-amp service, full hookups, pull-throughs, Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly policies. Rates: $38–52/night. Standard commercial park amenities (laundry, dump station, propane). Good for pass-through travelers who need a night's rest or those using Savannah as a pit stop on the I-95 snowbird route. Not a premium destination but reliable and convenient.

Pooler RV Resort (15 miles west)

Positioned between I-95 and the town of Pooler, this resort offers 50-amp service, Wi-Fi, pet-friendly policies, and rates in the $38–52/night range. It's newer and well-maintained, with a family-friendly vibe. Good secondary option if your first choice is booked. Less beachy, less historic than Skidaway or River's End, but solid infrastructure. For more Savannah-area options, see Savannah RV Parks.

Planning Your Savannah RV Itinerary

Here's a realistic 5-day Savannah RV experience that balances history, nature, and relaxation:

Day 1: Arrival & Forsyth Park Sunset

Pull into Savannah South KOA or Richmond Hill KOA by early afternoon. Set up camp, do a quick walk around the park to get your bearings, and hit the welcome center for maps. In the evening (4–5 PM), drive downtown and park near Forsyth Park (there's a public lot on Bull Street). Take a 45-minute walk around the park—iconic Spanish moss, fountain, and the surrounding historic squares. Grab an early dinner on River Street (close to downtown parking). Head back to camp by 8 PM. Budget: parking $5, dinner $25–35.

Day 2: Historic District Deep Dive

Spend the full day downtown. Rideshare or use the park's shuttle (if available) from your RV park into the historic district—expect $10–15/person round trip via Uber/Lyft. Start at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (free interior, spectacular stained glass), walk through Forsyth Park again, explore River Street's shops and restaurants, visit the historic City Market (free entry, various vendors), and browse the Savannah College of Art and Design campus and galleries. Lunch at a local spot (she-crab soup is a must). This is a full 6–7 hour day. Return to camp by 6 PM. Budget: rideshare $30, lunch $20, dinner (at camp or nearby) $20–30.

Day 3: Fort Pulaski & Tybee Island

Morning drive to Fort Pulaski National Monument (15 miles southeast from downtown)—$10/vehicle entry, valid for 7 days. Spend 2–3 hours exploring the restored Civil War fort, walking the moat, and viewing exhibits about the 1862 battle and coastal defense. The fort is surprisingly compelling, with audiovisual exhibits and rangers on-site. Lunch at Desposito Seafood or a casual cafe nearby. Afternoon drive to Tybee Island (another 15 minutes). Visit the Tybee Island Lighthouse (built 1736, rebuilt 1867—$4 entry, climb 178 steps for a 360° view). Walk the 3-mile public beach, collect shells, grab ice cream. Return to camp by 6 PM. Budget: Fort Pulaski $10, Tybee Lighthouse $4, lunch $18–25, ice cream/snacks $15.

Day 4: Skidaway Island Trails & Wormsloe Historic Site

Drive to Skidaway Island State Park (if not staying there). Hike the Big Ferry Trail (3.0 miles, boardwalk through salt marsh—excellent for bird-watching and photography). Pack water and sunscreen. This is the lowcountry at its most authentic. After the hike, drive to nearby Wormsloe Historic Site (free entry). Walk the legendary oak avenue—two miles of massive live oaks draped in Spanish moss forming a natural tunnel. This single feature is worth the trip. The site also has ruins of a colonial fortification, tabby walls, and walking trails. Spend 2 hours here. Return to camp. Budget: Skidaway entry (if not a multi-day park guest) included in overnight rate, Wormsloe free.

Day 5: Bonaventure Cemetery & Departure

Optional morning: drive to Bonaventure Cemetery (east of downtown, along the Wilmington River). It's less a graveyard and more a sculpture garden—Victorian marble angels, moss-draped oaks, and Spanish-influenced tomb design. Very peaceful, very atmospheric. Spend an hour here. Return to camp, break down site, and head out. Budget: cemetery free.

Total trip cost: ~$200–280 for gas, food, and activities (not including campground fees). This is an excellent value for 5 days of premium destinations.

Things to Do from Savannah Area RV Parks

Savannah Historic District. Twenty-two historic squares, each with its own character. Forsyth Park is the centerpiece, but don't miss Bonaventure Square, Chippewa Square (famous from "Forrest Gump"), and Johnson Square. River Street is packed with restaurants, galleries, and river views. City Market is a mixed-bag tourist district but has some genuine local boutiques.

Fort Pulaski National Monument. Five-mile radius from downtown; $10/vehicle. This is where the 1862 siege began—a pivotal moment in the Civil War when the Union Army first successfully breached a masonry coastal fort using rifled cannons (not smoothbore artillery, which couldn't penetrate the brick). The fort is largely restored and walkable; expect 2–3 hours for a full visit.

Tybee Island. Eighteen miles east. Georgia's primary public beach, with a 3-mile sandy shore, family-friendly vibe, and plenty of seafood shacks. The historic Tybee Island Lighthouse (built 1736, rebuilt 1867) is $4 to climb. Sunset Beach is slightly quieter than the main beach. Good for a half-day or full-day escape.

Skidaway Island Trails. Twelve miles south. Two primary trails: Big Ferry (3.0 miles, boardwalk, tidal marsh, bird-watching) and Sandpiper (2.5 miles, upland forest). Also the Diamond Causeway scenic drive. This is genuine lowcountry ecology—salt marsh, live oaks, alligators in the water (observe from a distance), osprey, and herons.

Wormsloe Historic Site. Thirteen miles south. The oak avenue alone is iconic—two miles of massive live oaks forming a natural tunnel. The site also preserves a tabby-construction fortification ruin (colonial era) and nature trails through maritime forest. Free entry; plan 1.5–2 hours.

Bonaventure Cemetery. East of downtown, near the Wilmington River. This is not a somber experience—it's a sculpture garden of Victorian marble angels, elaborate tombs, and Spanish-moss-draped oaks. Free; very peaceful; good for photography and reflection.

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Downtown; free interior. Built 1876 in Romanesque Revival style with stunning stained glass, soaring ceilings, and intricate tilework. Even non-religious visitors find it moving. Ten minutes of awe, easily.

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Architecture Walk. SCAD owns dozens of historic buildings throughout downtown and repurposed them as studios, galleries, and classrooms. Walking the campus is a free lesson in adaptive reuse, historic preservation, and contemporary art curation. Many buildings have open galleries.

Practical Tips for RV Camping Near Savannah

Downtown Access & Rideshare. RVs cannot park in the historic district. This is non-negotiable. Your options: (1) Uber/Lyft from your park ($10–15/person one-way, 15–25 minutes depending on park location); (2) Some parks offer shuttle services (check ahead); (3) Ride a bike or e-bike if your park is on the north side and you're comfortable with traffic; (4) Go early morning or late evening to find metered parking near the river and walk from there. Rideshare is the most hassle-free option and costs less than you'd pay for downtown parking plus the stress.

St. Patrick's Day: Plan 6+ Months Ahead. Savannah's St. Patrick's Day celebration (March 17) is the second-largest in the United States after New York City. The entire downtown is cordoned off, 500,000+ visitors flood the city, and rates at RV parks double or triple. If March 17 is your target date, book by September of the prior year. If you're flexible, avoid the week of March 17 entirely—come the first week of March or the last week of April instead. You'll enjoy Savannah far more with fewer crowds.

Summer Heat & Hurricane Season. June through August routinely exceed 90°F with high humidity. This is not comfortable RV camping season for most travelers—air conditioning runs constantly, exterior activities are limited to early morning or evening, and the heat exhaustion risk is real. Plan your visit for March–May (spring) or September–October (early fall). If you're stuck in summer, embrace Tybee Island's beach, do all outdoor activity before 10 AM, and spend midday in air-conditioned museums or cafes.

Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Savannah is not in the direct strike zone as often as Florida, but tropical storms and hurricanes do track through Georgia. Before arriving, know the evacuation route from your park (most parks have plans), monitor the National Hurricane Center, and keep your fuel tanks full and supplies stocked. A storm can move in quickly; don't be caught unprepared. If a major hurricane is forecast for the coast, be prepared to leave 24–48 hours in advance.

I-95 Snowbird Corridor Timing. October through April is peak RV season in the Southeast. Parks fill quickly, especially on weekends. If you're traveling during these months, aim to arrive at a new park by 10 AM on a weekday, or expect to encounter full "No Vacancy" signs on Friday/Saturday. Check in early, park the RV for the duration, and use local transportation or rental cars for activities.

Dump Station Access. Skidaway Island State Park has no on-site dump station, which is a logistics issue for extended stays. If you're camping at Skidaway, plan to drive to a private park (Garden City RV or I-95 North Savannah) every 3–4 days to dump tanks. Most private parks allow non-guests to use facilities for $10–15. The KOAs and other private parks all have full dump stations included in the rate.

Pets & Recreation. All major parks listed are pet-friendly. Bring vaccination records just in case. Many parks have dog parks or designated pet areas. Skidaway Island and Fort McAllister allow leashed pets on trails.

Cost Math

Here's realistic budgeting for three different Savannah RV trip scenarios:

Scenario 1: Budget Weekend (2 nights, nature-focused)

• Skidaway Island State Park: $28/night × 2 = $56
• Rideshare into downtown (2 trips): $40
• Groceries & camp cooking: $40
• One restaurant dinner: $30
• Skidaway trails (free), Wormsloe Historic Site (free): $0
• Total: $166

Scenario 2: Mid-Range Family Trip (4 nights, mixed activities)

• Savannah South KOA: $55/night × 4 = $220
• Rideshare or shuttle to downtown: $50
• Fort Pulaski entrance: $10
• Tybee Island Lighthouse: $4
• Tybee Island restaurant meal: $35
• Groceries & breakfasts: $60
• Total: $379

Scenario 3: Extended Snowbird Stay (7 nights, full experience)

• Savannah South KOA: $55/night × 7 = $385
• Downtown exploration (mixed rideshare + 1 park shuttle): $80
• Fort Pulaski: $10
• Tybee Island activities: $30
• Skidaway Island day trip: $0 (if staying at another park, add parking)
• Wormsloes visit: $0
• Bonaventure Cemetery (free) + SCAD walking tour (free): $0
• Restaurant meals (4 dinners): $150
• Groceries & breakfasts: $120
• Fuel (estimated): $60
• Total: $835

All three scenarios represent exceptional value. Even the extended 7-night trip is under $120/day all-in. For state park pricing details, see Skidaway Island RV Parks.

Savannah Area RV Camping: At a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my RV go downtown Savannah?

No. The historic district is intentionally vehicle-restricted. Narrow streets, low bridges, and pedestrian-priority zones make large RVs impossible to navigate and park. The best strategy is to base at an RV park 12–25 miles out and use Uber/Lyft for short downtown visits. A round trip typically costs $10–15/person and takes 15–25 minutes depending on which park you're at.

What is the closest RV park to Savannah Historic District?

Garden City RV Park (10 miles northwest) is technically closest in terms of straight-line distance. However, Skidaway Island State Park (12 miles south) offers a better overall experience if you want nature combined with downtown access. Both are 20–25 minutes from downtown via Uber. For pure amenities and convenience, Savannah South KOA (20 miles) is worth the extra drive because it has full 50-amp service, a pool, and excellent management.

How do I get from an RV park to downtown Savannah?

Best option: Rideshare (Uber/Lyft). Cost is $10–15/person one-way, trip takes 15–25 minutes depending on your park. Second option: Call ahead and ask if your park offers a shuttle service (some KOAs do). Third option: Rent a car for a day or two if you plan multiple downtown visits—it provides flexibility. Biking is impractical for most RV campers due to distance and traffic.

Is Savannah RV camping good in winter?

Yes, excellent. Winter (November–February) is pleasant: daytime temperatures in the 50s–60s, minimal rain, and a calm, uncrowded vibe. This is not peak tourist season, so parks have availability, rates are lower, and downtown is walkable without summer crowds. The only downside: sunset is around 5 PM, so plan activities accordingly. Spring (March–May) and fall (September–October) are genuinely the best seasons; summer is hot and sticky.

What is the best RV park for Savannah families?

Savannah South KOA or Richmond Hill KOA. Both have pools, playgrounds, organized activities, and family-friendly management. Pools are heated year-round. Kid-friendly attractions (Forsyth Park, Tybee Island beach, Skidaway Island nature trails) are easily accessible from these parks. Avoid Skidaway Island State Park if you have very young kids—it's more remote and lacks amenities.

What is Wormsloe Historic Site?

A Georgia state historic site preserving a colonial-era fortification (tabby construction, ruins visible) and adjacent maritime forest. The iconic feature is a 1.5-mile oak avenue—massive live oaks draped in Spanish moss forming a natural tunnel. It's one of Georgia's most photographed locations and genuinely atmospheric. Free entry; plan 1.5–2 hours. Located about 13 miles south of downtown.

How far is Tybee Island from Savannah RV parks?

Tybee Island is 18–22 miles from downtown Savannah (depending on traffic and route). From Savannah South KOA it's about 35–40 minutes. From Skidaway Island State Park it's about 30 minutes. It's a half-day or full-day trip. River's End Campground is located on Tybee Island itself (18 miles east of downtown), so if beach proximity is your priority, stay there.

What is the St. Patrick's Day situation for RV campers?

Savannah's St. Patrick's Day celebration (March 17) is the second-largest in the United States after New York City. Expect 500,000+ visitors, rates that double or triple, parks fully booked 6+ months in advance, and downtown streets cordoned off with no vehicle access. If you want to experience it, book by September of the prior year and arrive at least 2–3 days early to claim a spot. If you want to avoid chaos, skip the week of March 17 and visit in early March or late April instead.

Are there RV parks in Savannah Historic District?

No. The historic district is a 2.2-square-mile pedestrian-priority zone with narrow streets and low-clearance bridges. No RV park exists within it, and parking is restricted to compact cars. This is intentional urban planning to preserve the district's character. Your RV base must be 10–25 miles outside the district, with downtown explored via rideshare.

What Georgia state parks are near Savannah?

Skidaway Island State Park (12 miles south, maritime forest, excellent trails, $25–30/night) and Fort McAllister State Park (25 miles south, Civil War fortification, $25–32/night) are the two main options. Both have camping and are well-managed. Skidaway is closer and better for day trips; Fort McAllister is farther but offers more solitude and history. Both accept pets on leash.

If you own an RV park in Savannah or Chatham County, listen: the numbers are compelling. Fourteen million annual tourists flow through the region, with the I-95 corridor funneling an endless stream of snowbirds October through April. Yet the supply of full-hookup parks within 15 miles of the historic district remains limited. That scarcity creates premium pricing opportunities—especially around St. Patrick's Day, when rates routinely double.

Your park is an asset. If you've been considering a transition or capital event, now is the time to explore your options. We acquire parks with strong operational fundamentals and premium market positions. Let's talk. /sell

Jenna Reed Director of Acquisitions rv-parks.org jenna@rv-parks.org