RV Parks on Jekyll Island, Georgia

Quick Definition

Jekyll Island is a Georgia state-owned barrier island—4,000 acres spanning 7.5 miles long and 1.5 miles wide—located in Georgia's southeastern coast, accessible via the Jekyll Island Causeway ($8 day-use fee per vehicle) from Brunswick, 14 miles away. By law, only 35% of the island's land can be developed; the remaining 65% is protected marshland, maritime forest, and beach, ensuring the island maintains its pristine character.

Georgia's southernmost barrier island enjoys a year-round mild climate, making it attractive for RV campers seeking to escape harsh winters. Jekyll Island's historical significance is immense: the Jekyll Island Club, which operated from 1886 to 1942, was the winter retreat of America's wealthiest Gilded Age families—Vanderbilt, Rockefeller, J.P. Morgan, William Astor, and Marshall Field. At its peak, approximately one-sixth of the world's wealth was represented among club members gathered seasonally on this island. The island also holds a pivotal place in telecommunications history: the first transcontinental telephone call was made from Jekyll Island Club on January 25, 1915.

Today, the island offers 10 miles of Atlantic beaches and more than 20 miles of paved bike paths that connect the entire island. It's a destination where outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and American economic history intersect—all accessible to RV travelers seeking a multi-layered experience. For context on the broader coastal Georgia RV market, see Coastal Georgia RV Parks.

TL;DR

• 4,000 acres of protected Georgia state land: Only 35% can be developed by law; 65% remains protected marshland, maritime forest, and beach
• Jekyll Island Club (1886–1942): Winter retreat of America's billionaire families; one-sixth of the world's wealth gathered seasonally on this island
• 10 miles of Atlantic beach: Glory Beach, Great Dunes Park, and Driftwood Beach—the latter famous for bleached-white oaks extending into the surf
• Georgia Sea Turtle Center: $10 admission; hospital and education center; 100+ sea turtle nests annually during May–August nesting season
• 20+ miles of paved bike paths: Full-island connectivity; bike rentals available at the campground and local shops
• $8 causeway day-use fee per vehicle: Applies every entry; included once for overnight campground guests
• Jekyll Island Campground: State-operated, north end of island; 210 sites with full hookups available; $38–$55/night; reserve via ReserveAmerica
• Year-round mild climate: Average high 77°F; April and October are peak shoulder months for ideal weather and fewer crowds

For broader Georgia RV options, see Georgia RV Parks.

Where to Stay on Jekyll Island

On-Island: Jekyll Island Campground

Jekyll Island Campground is the primary overnight RV destination on the island, operated by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Located on the north end of Jekyll Island, the campground features 210 sites, with full hookups available at most locations. Nightly rates range from $38 to $55 depending on season and site type. The facility includes a swimming pool, recreation hall, and bike rentals—a convenience if you didn't arrive with your own bikes. Reservations are handled through ReserveAmerica and are highly recommended, especially for spring break (March–April) and summer weekends when the campground fills weeks in advance. Off-season (November–January) typically allows walk-up availability. Contact the campground directly at 800-864-7275 for specific site details or seasonal questions.

Mainland: Brunswick (14 miles via causeway)

Brunswick is home to a full spectrum of private RV parks that serve as an alternative or overflow destination for Jekyll Island visitors. These parks typically offer rates in the $35–$50/night range, undercutting Jekyll Island Campground by $5–$10 per night. The tradeoff is a 14-mile commute each way across the Jekyll Island Causeway, with an $8 day-use fee applying per vehicle per entry. For a 2–3 night stay, this fee compounds ($16–$24 total), offsetting the per-night savings. Brunswick parks often provide full hookups, pull-through sites, and amenities like Wi-Fi and laundry facilities. This zone works well for travelers planning to spend multiple days off-island or those visiting during peak seasons when Jekyll Island Campground is fully booked.

St. Simons Island (25 miles north)

St. Simons Island is an upscale barrier island known for higher-end accommodations and limited RV options. Private RV parks in the area tend to be small and may have higher nightly rates ($50–$75) compared to Jekyll Island Campground. St. Simons Island appeals to RV travelers seeking a quieter, more residential island experience and is best visited as a separate day trip or multi-day excursion, not as a primary base for Jekyll Island exploration.

Crooked River State Park (30 miles south, gastateparks.org/crooked-river)

Crooked River State Park, located near St. Marys, offers a scenic and quieter alternative for RV camping. Rates range from $22–$30 per night, making it the most affordable option in the region. The park is particularly appealing for travelers combining a Jekyll Island visit with a journey to Cumberland Island (ferry access from nearby St. Marys). Crooked River provides full hookups and a more secluded atmosphere than island campgrounds.

Things to Do on Jekyll Island

Millionaires' Village Historic District

The Millionaires' Village Historic District spans 240 acres and comprises Victorian "cottages"—actually grand mansions—built by Gilded Age billionaires during Jekyll Island Club's heyday. The district includes stunning examples like the Goodyear Cottage (Belle Époque style, 1906), Crane Cottage (Italian Renaissance, 1917, now a conference center), and the Faith Chapel (1904), which features stained glass windows by the renowned Louis Comfort Tiffany studio.

Self-guided walking tours are free and allow you to explore the exteriors of these mansions and grounds at your own pace. Guided tours are available for $18 per person and provide deeper historical context and interior access (when applicable). The Jekyll Island Museum, housed in the historic club building, offers exhibits on the island's Gilded Age legacy and the prominent families who shaped American commerce and industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Georgia Sea Turtle Center

The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is a working hospital and education museum dedicated to rehabilitating injured sea turtles and advancing sea turtle conservation. Admission is $10 and provides access to the education center, which explains sea turtle nesting biology, satellite tracking technologies, and rehabilitation protocols. Live sea turtles in various stages of recovery and treatment are visible in treatment tanks, offering insight into both common injuries and successful recovery outcomes.

Peak nesting season runs May through August, during which the center typically documents 100+ nests annually on Jekyll Island beaches. Free beach nest markers are placed at active nesting sites, allowing campers and visitors to witness the seasonal phenomenon and learn about turtle behavior without disturbing nests.

Beach and Biking

Jekyll Island offers 10 miles of Atlantic beach accessible by car and RV at designated parking areas. Glory Beach on the south end and Great Dunes Park on the north offer different atmospheres—Glory Beach is quieter and more remote, while Great Dunes Park includes facilities and easier access. The island's 20+ miles of paved bike paths connect the campground, historic district, beaches, and other points of interest, making bicycling the primary mode of transportation for many visitors.

Bike rentals are available at Jekyll Island Campground ($10–$15 per day) and at several commercial shops around the island. A full-island loop is achievable in 2–3 hours at a leisurely pace, making biking accessible for families and casual riders.

Driftwood Beach

Driftwood Beach is Jekyll Island's most photographed location and represents one of the southeastern coast's most striking natural phenomena. The beach features ancient live oak trees that were killed by saltwater erosion—their bleached-white trunks extend ghostlike into the surf and sand, creating otherworldly landscape and photography opportunities. Best visited at sunrise or sunset when light angles emphasize the sculptural quality of the driftwood.

Driftwood Beach has no admission fee and minimal facilities, making it a low-cost attraction. Access is via car to the parking area or by bike along island pathways.

Water Sports

Kayak tours of Jekyll Island's tidal creeks run $45–$75 per person for guided excursions, offering opportunities to observe dolphin, wading birds, and coastal ecosystems. Dolphin tour boats depart from the island and nearby Brunswick, typically costing $35–$55 per ticket. Crabbing off the Jekyll Island Causeway is free with a valid Georgia fishing license and is a popular family activity. South beach fishing for redfish and flounder is productive during spring and fall, with tackle shops around the island offering rentals and advice on seasonal conditions.

Practical Tips for Jekyll Island RV Camping

Reservations fill far in advance. Jekyll Island Campground (800-864-7275) reserves sites through ReserveAmerica. Spring break (March–April) and summer weekends book 6–8 weeks ahead. Off-season (November–January) is walkup-available but limited in certain site types. Plan accordingly, especially if travel dates are flexible.

Budget the causeway fee carefully. The $8 day-use fee applies to every vehicle, every day. For a 2–3 night campground stay, you pay the fee once on arrival (included in your camping fee); day-trippers pay $8 per visit. If you're in a Brunswick RV park and driving to the island daily, factor in $16–$24 for a 3-day visit. This cost is separate from nightly campground fees.

Respect the 35 mph island speed limit. Law enforcement actively patrols the island's roads. The low speed limit is intentional policy, designed to protect the island's natural environment and ensure pedestrian and cyclist safety. Plan for a relaxed, leisurely pace—this is part of Jekyll Island's appeal.

Sea turtle nesting protocol (May–August). During nesting season, the beach south of the campground is marked with protective nest cages. Do not disturb nests or markers. At night, avoid flashlights and flash photography on the beach, as bright lights disorient hatchlings and can cause them to head toward development instead of the ocean. This is a critical conservation period, and visitor compliance is essential.

Alcohol policy on beaches. Georgia state law prohibits alcohol on state-owned beaches. Alcohol is permitted at the campground and within RV spaces, but not on the sand. Plan beach days with non-alcoholic beverages or save drinking for campground gatherings.

Cost Math

A 3-night Jekyll Island RV camping trip illustrates the value proposition for budget-conscious travelers.

On-island RV (Jekyll Island Campground): $38–$55/night × 3 nights = $114–$165 (plus $8 causeway fee included). Total: $114–$165.

Mainland RV (Brunswick): $35–$50/night × 3 nights = $105–$150, plus $8/day causeway fee × 3 days = $24. Total: $129–$174.

Hotel on-island: $180–$280/night × 3 nights = $540–$840. Significantly higher, particularly for families or couples.

Activities: Georgia Sea Turtle Center ($10), guided historic tour ($18), bike rental ($10–$15), other attractions mostly free or minimal cost.

Three-night Jekyll Island RV trip for two people: $115–$175 all-in, including lodging, causeway access, and one major activity. This represents exceptional value compared to $540–$840 for hotel lodging alone. For families of 3–4 in a single RV site, the per-person cost drops further, making Jekyll Island one of Georgia's most affordable barrier island destinations.

Jekyll Island RV Parks: At a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Jekyll Island Campground reservable, and how far in advance should I book?

Yes, Jekyll Island Campground is fully reservable through ReserveAmerica (reserveamerica.com). Spring and summer reservations book 6–8 weeks in advance. For peak periods (spring break March–April, summer weekends June–August), book 3+ months ahead. Off-season (November–February) allows reservations with greater availability and sometimes walk-up access.

What was the Jekyll Island Club, and why was it significant?

The Jekyll Island Club was a private retreat founded in 1886 by a group of wealthy industrialists and financiers. At its peak, members included J.P. Morgan, John D. Rockefeller, William K. Vanderbilt, William Astor, and Marshall Field. Collectively, club members represented approximately one-sixth of the world's wealth, making Jekyll Island the epicenter of American economic power during the Gilded Age (1880s–1920s). The club operated seasonally as a winter retreat until 1942.

How much is the Jekyll Island Causeway fee, and does it apply to overnight campers?

The causeway day-use fee is $8 per vehicle. Overnight campers pay this fee once upon arrival, and it covers all entries during the camping stay. Day-trippers pay $8 per visit. The fee supports island infrastructure and conservation.

When is sea turtle nesting season at Jekyll Island?

Sea turtle nesting season peaks from May through August. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center documents 100+ nests annually during this window. Hatchlings typically emerge 50–60 days after nesting. Visitors should avoid disturbing marked nests and avoid using flashlights on the beach at night during this period.

Is Driftwood Beach worth a separate visit, or just a photo stop?

Driftwood Beach is worth a dedicated visit. While the primary appeal is photography (especially at sunrise/sunset), the beach also offers exploration of tide pools, shell collection, and contemplation of the driftwood landscape. Plan 1–2 hours for a full visit, including time to walk the beach and capture images.

What is the Georgia Sea Turtle Center's admission and hours?

Admission is $10 per person. The center is open daily, though hours vary seasonally. Check gastateparks.org/georgia-sea-turtle-center for current hours before planning your visit.

Can I ride a bike around the entire island?

Yes, more than 20 miles of paved bike paths connect the island's major areas. A full-loop ride is achievable in 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace. The paths are well-maintained and flat, suitable for casual riders and families.

Where was the first transcontinental telephone call made?

The first transcontinental telephone call was made from the Jekyll Island Club on January 25, 1915. Alexander Graham Bell called Thomas Watson from the club, marking a milestone in telecommunications history.

What is the closest airport to Jekyll Island?

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), located in Jacksonville, Florida (approximately 80 miles south), is the nearest major airport. Alternative regional airports include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), approximately 300 miles northwest. Most RV travelers drive; Jacksonville offers car rental options and is a 1.5–2 hour drive from Jekyll Island via I-95 South.

Is Jekyll Island dog-friendly on the beach?

Dogs are permitted at Jekyll Island Campground and on island roads. Beach policies restrict pets in designated swimming areas but allow them in other beach zones, particularly during off-peak hours. Check the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website for current beach pet policies before bringing your dog.

Thinking About Selling Your RV Park? The Jekyll Island Opportunity

If you own an RV park in the Brunswick area or Glynn County, you're sitting on a highly valuable asset—whether you know it or not.

Here's why: Jekyll Island itself is state-owned land with a 35% development cap mandated by law. This means no new large RV parks will ever be built on the island. Period. The Jekyll Island Campground has 210 sites, and that's it for on-island overnight RV capacity. Every traveler seeking to stay overnight on Jekyll Island—and thousands arrive annually—either books the state campground or drives to the mainland.

The Georgia Golden Isles generate $2.4 billion annually in tourism economic impact. Jekyll Island alone attracts 1+ million visitors yearly. That tourism creates steady, year-round demand for RV camping. Year-round mild climate means your park operates at capacity during shoulder seasons (April, October) when competitors in northern states are closed or half-full.

If you own a Brunswick, Glynn County, or St. Simons Island RV park, the Jekyll overflow market is your competitive advantage. Travelers overflow from Jekyll Island Campground—it fills continuously—and look for nearby alternatives. Your park becomes the natural solution, justifying premium nightly rates and high occupancy rates even during traditionally slow seasons.

We acquire and operate RV parks across the Southeast. If you're considering selling, we understand the real estate fundamentals, the operational metrics that matter, and what a well-run park is actually worth. We also respect the legacy you've built.

If you want to explore whether now is the right time to sell—or if you're curious what your park is worth—let's talk.

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

Learn more about selling your park: /sell