Fort McAllister State Park

Tucked along the banks of the Ogeechee River in Richmond Hill, Georgia, Fort McAllister State Park spans 1,725 acres where Civil War history meets the quiet beauty of coastal Georgia’s salt marshes and live oak canopies. The park is best known for its remarkably well-preserved Confederate earthwork fortification, which withstood seven Union naval bombardments before falling to Sherman’s troops in December 1864 during the March to the Sea. Walking the earthworks today, you can still see the original cannon emplacements, bombproofs, and a restored hot shot furnace — it’s one of the most tangible Civil War sites in the Southeast.

Beyond the history, the park is a genuine outdoor destination. A network of trails winds through hardwood forests draped in Spanish moss, and the river access draws kayakers and anglers chasing redfish and flounder in the brackish tidal creeks. The campground offers 65 sites with water and electric hookups, many shaded by towering oaks and positioned within earshot of the river. There are also three fully equipped rental cottages for those who prefer a roof overhead.

Birding is excellent year-round, with herons, egrets, and painted buntings common along the marsh edges. Spring and fall deliver the most comfortable weather — summer brings heat and no-see-ums in force, so pack bug spray if you visit between June and September.

With a 4.6-star rating across nearly 1,900 reviews, Fort McAllister consistently earns praise for its peaceful setting, well-maintained grounds, and the rare combination of meaningful history with genuine natural beauty. Bryan County’s best-kept secret isn’t much of a secret anymore.

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