We recently had the pleasure of visiting the stunning Stephen C Foster State Park, nestled in the heart of the Okefenokee Swamp in southern Georgia. This remote 120-acre park, located in Fargo, GA, is approximately 19 miles away from any major road and offers guests a unique opportunity to disconnect from the modern world as it provides no TV or cell service, with limited wifi access available only at the ranger’s station.
The park offers guided boat tours that are led by knowledgeable ranger assistants who expertly point out local foliage and swamp creatures while providing a fascinating insight into the history of the area.
Spanning an impressive 402,000 acres, the Okefenokee Swamp is America’s largest black water swamp, and Stephen C Foster Camp Ground is certified as a dark sky park, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the darkest environment in the southeast.
The park boasts an abundance of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, raccoons, black bears, deer, ibis, herons, wood storks, red-cockaded woodpeckers, and numerous other creatures, making it a nature lover’s paradise. The American alligator is the most famous creature found in the swamp, and visitors are likely to encounter them throughout their stay, with some even calling the campground home.
For those looking to explore the swamp’s vast waterways, the park offers rentals of canoes, kayaks, and jon boats. Fishing is also excellent in the area, with many varieties of panfish available.
The campsites at Stephen C Foster State Park are incredibly secluded, providing plenty of space between each site. Though maneuvering on the small roads can be tricky, there is ample room to park and set up camp. The sites offer 30-amp electrical and water hookups, with a dump station available for those who need it. It’s worth noting that there is no wifi or cell service at the campsites, offering visitors a true off-the-grid experience.
The park staff, made up of friendly and knowledgeable park rangers and assistants, is always on hand to answer any questions visitors may have. Pets are welcome, and it’s heartening to see that residents are respectful of the park’s leash rules.
Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Stephen C Foster State Park, even though the weather didn’t cooperate, and we weren’t able to see many stars. We’re already planning our return visit and highly recommend this natural wonder to anyone looking to experience the beauty and serenity of Georgia’s stunning wilderness. 
Do be warned, however, that May-June is peak yellow fly season, so plan accordingly.
To make reservations call (800) 864-7275 or visit their website.
