Regular readers of my blog can probably take a guess that I’m not much of a city person. As much as I enjoyed my visit to Savannah, Georgia, I did make sure to take the opportunity to get out of the city to explore the surrounding areas.
Skidaway Island State Park is just about a 20 minute drive South of the city and the 588 acre park hosts a selection of beautiful trails and camping sites that make it a popular escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
I was lucky enough to be able to camp there overnight in one of their huge and beautiful campsites and we were able to use it as a launching point for several lovely trails.
I enjoyed the Big Ferry Loop so much, I actually walked it twice in a single day- both in the early morning and late afternoon for optimal lighting options. It’s only a two to three-mile loop depending on your route and, judging by the runners who repeatedly lapped me on my leisurely walk, it’s a popular place for a scenic jog.
The Spanish Moss in this area was absolutely taking over and completely gorgeous. I’m not from the area and I loved seeing the beautiful trailing plants, especially in and around the old Liquor Still Loop where it was really prolific.
I genuinely enjoyed the variety of ecosystems that exist within this park. The Big Ferry Loop was mostly lush and woodsy with salt marshes, earthworks, and even a freshwater pond where alligators occasionally visit- though I didn’t see any on my trip. The Sandpiper Trail Loop in another section of the park felt like an entirely different space- much dryer with a boardwalk path over salt flats making it wheelchair accessible, compared to the Big Loop Ferry’s more muddy route.
The trails I visited were gentle and relaxing, but engaging enough to not be boring. The wildlife in this area was incredible considering how close it is to major city- several times on my hike I simple stopped and listened to the chorus of bird song. It must be such a huge draw for bird watching enthusiasts!
Skidaway Island State Park was an excellent little getaway from the city and definitely worth a visit by those looking to get a dose of nature in their day- and for those looking to stay overnight, there are plenty of camping options and even some cabin rentals available! I’ll definitely be heading back next time I’m in the area.
Looks like a great place to hike and camp, thank you for the information!
It was a great little getaway! I highly recommend checking it out if you’re in the area 🙂
I will, thank you
Such a wonderful place.
I had a lovely time visiting!
I visited Savannah once for a work thing. It was amazing, one of my favorite places ever. We were by the water, and it was the week of St. Patrick’s Day. All of the fountains had green water! Your walks sound and look beautiful. When my husband retired about 3 years ago, we started taking more road trips (less flying because we had more time, although I still work). When COVID hit, we took to really searching out the parks and walking areas. Walking has been my COVID therapy! …and still vacationing. 😊
That’s amazing! Savannah must have been incredible for St. Patrick’s Day!
I’m glad that you and your husband have been traveling more- it really is such great therapy. Anything that got me out of the house safely during the start of the pandemic was really special to me so I spent a lot of time outside. Road trips are an excellent way to explore without having to get too close to other people too!
I started walking every day in 2020 and haven’t stopped! Being outdoors feels so good. And FYI we had to leave Savannah as they were just getting the parade started, one of the largest parades in the nation! Sad but still fun!
Ooh bad timing on the parade! I’m glad you’ve been getting outside so much these past few years!