Wilderness Camping in the Okefenokee Swamp
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, adventurer, or a camper seeking solitude, wilderness camping on raised platforms and islands in the Okefenokee Swamp should be at the top of your bucket list! Nestled in the southeastern corner of Georgia (with a small part over the Florida border), the Okefenokee Swamp is a vast and mysterious wilderness teeming with diverse wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and a rich history that makes it a captivating destination for outdoor adventurers. We at Okefenokee & Satilla Expeditions LLC are proud to work in the Okefenokee Swamp to take our guests on unforgettable camping experiences!
One of our Spring 2024 guided trips to Bluff Lake in the Okefenokee Swamp
The majority of Okefenokee is protected under the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service as Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. It is also a National Wilderness Area, making it a bucket-list destination for adventurers and those seeking the serenity of the wild. Crisscrossed with an extensive wilderness trail system, there are a multitude of ways to experience a night (or two or three!) under the stars in North America’s largest blackwater wetland.
“Our kayaking expedition was a phenomenal experience, it was our first time kayaking the west side of the Okefenokee and we had a really good time doing so. Our guide Jenny was extremely knowledgeable and attentive to our needs, adapting the tour to ensure it was accessible and fun for everyone.”
How many miles of trails are there in the Wilderness Trail System?
120 miles! Some are accessible by non-motorized canoes and kayaks only, while others are combination use- motorboats (limited to 10 horsepower) and paddlecraft share the same trails. Motorized vessels are not allowed on overnight wilderness camping trips (not even a trolling motor on a canoe). Why? To preserve the wilderness experience for all that visit.
The various routes in the system are color coded. In the Swamp, you’ll see mile markers along most of the miles on a given route, painted in the corresponding color of the designated trail (green signs on the Green Trail, etc.), along with a white canoe symbol and a number. The number is the given mile at that point. When you change to a new trail, the numbers reset.
Note the (faded) red mile marker at the bottom of this sign post- this is the point where the Red Trail (aka the Middle Fork of the Suwannee River, Minnie's Lake Run, or Middle Fork Run, meets Billy's Lake.
What is wilderness camping?
Wilderness camping in the Okefenokee Swamp is an unforgettable experience! Whether you’re going to a platform near the edge of the Swamp, like Cedar Hammock, or on a trip that takes you across the vast green expanse, this is THE way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this iconic wetland. There is very little land to step on throughout the Swamp on the trail system- your travel time is spent in a canoe or kayak! There are nine total sites in the wilderness trail system in Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, and two types: platform camping and island camping. Unlike traditional camping on solid ground, platform camping involves setting up your tent or hammock on a partially covered platform raised above the water, offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience the swamp's unique ecosystem up close.
There are 7 platforms in Okefenokee where you can wilderness camp with a Federal permit:
Cedar Hammock (Yellow Trail) (doubles as a day use platform)
Monkey Lake (Pink Trail) (doubles as a day use platform)
Canal Run (Orange Trail)
Maul Hammock (Red Trail)
Big Water (Red Trail)
Round Top (Purple Trail)
Bluff Lake (Green Trail)
There are 2 islands in Okefenokee where you can wilderness camp with a Federal permit:
Floyd’s Island (Green Trail)
Mixons Hammock (Brown Trail)
Technically, there is a 3rd island where you can camp- Jones Island, where Stephen C. Foster State Park. But it’s not in the above mentioned wilderness trail system (you drive onto that park), and their campground is currently under renovations.
You can mix and match some sites and trails as long as sites can be booked and are connected. For example, a nice two-night guided trip we offer is Monkey Lake on the first night, and Cedar Hammock on the second night, combining the Pink and the Yellow Trails.
Yes, wilderness camping means roughing it- even the Hebard Cabin on Floyd’s Island is an empty building with no furniture inside (pitch your tent inside if you wish!). There are, however, enclosed pit toilets at each site (bring your own toilet paper just in case they’re out). The wilderness sites do have picnic tables, some have fire rings, and the platforms are partially covered to help stay dry. There is no electricity or running water. Bring everything you need with you- or book one of our guided trips and have everything provided for you! We get the permit, provide all the boats, gear, food, water, guidance, and fun!
Heading down the Red Trail!
Why go on a wilderness camping trip in the Okefenokee Swamp?
Unique Access to Nature: Okefenokee Swamp camping allows you to explore vast swaths of the swamp that are inaccessible by foot. Paddling through the maze of cypress trees and prairie trails, you’ll have the chance to spot alligators, otters, a variety of bird species, and more.
Tranquility and Seclusion: Unlike crowded campgrounds, platform and island camping in Okefenokee offers a serene and solitary experience. With no light pollution and minimal human interference, it's just you, the swamp, and the stars above (we have a meteor shower watching trip coming up in January!)
Unforgettable Sunrises and Sunsets: The Okefenokee Swamp is famous for its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. From most platforms, you’ll have a front-row seat to these spectacles, with the water reflecting the vibrant colors of the sky.
Eco-Friendly Adventure: Wilderness camping is designed to minimize human impact on the environment. By camping on elevated platforms or designated island sites, you help preserve the delicate wetland ecosystem, ensuring that this natural wonder remains pristine for future generations.
The Magic of the Okefenokee Swamp
The Okefenokee Swamp is more than just a destination; it's a journey into one of the most unique and fascinating ecosystems in the United States. Wilderness camping allows you to experience the swamp in a way that few other visitors do. A guided, all-inclusive camping trip with Okefenokee & Satilla Expeditions LLC is the best way to experience the wilderness of Okefenokee- we handle everything for you! Let’s go make some amazing memories together in the Land of the Trembling Earth.
Keep up with regular updates about our upcoming public trips on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/okesatilla (we even have a private group just for our guests to connect before and after a trip!)
Request to join one of our open-to-the-public wilderness camping trips (guided and fully outfitted, meals included!) by emailing Jenny, your trip leader extraordinaire, at okeexpeditions@gmail.com.
Or, request a personalized private camping trip for you and your group- we’re ready to help you experience the wonder of the Okefenokee Swamp!
Sunset at Cedar Hammock
