Stephen C. Foster State Park

Location

17515 Georgia Hwy. 177
Fargo GA 31631

Rates

  • Refuge Fee: $5.00

Hours of Operation

  • Monday : 7:00am - 10:00pm
  • Tuesday : 7:00am - 10:00pm
  • Wednesday : 7:00am - 10:00pm
  • Thursday : 7:00am - 10:00pm
  • Friday : 7:00am - 10:00pm
  • Saturday : 7:00am - 10:00pm
  • Sunday : 7:00am - 10:00pm

Social

Okefenokee Swamp at Stephen C. Foster.
Stephen C. Foster Park Office & Boat Dock Area.
Cottage at Stephen C. Foster
Kayaking at Stephen C. Foster
Wildlife at Stephen C. Foster
Canoe or kayak to Billy's Island at Stephen C. Foster.
Swamp trail markers at Stephen C. Foster

Gear up for a day full of adventure and incredible sites! This remote park is a primary entrance to the legendary Okefenokee Swamp-one of Georgia's seven natural wonders. Spanish moss-laced trees reflect off the black swamp waters, while cypress knees rise upward from the glass-like surface. Here, paddlers and photographers will enjoy breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. Alligators, turtles, raccoons, black bears, deer, ibis, herons, wood storks, red-cockaded woodpeckers and numerous other creatures make their homes in the 402,000-acre refuge. Stargazers will appreciate the particularly dark sky.

Same-day reservations are recommended for guided pontoon boat tours of the swamp. Sunset tours may be available. More adventurous visitors may wish to rent canoes, kayaks or jon boats for further exploration of the swamp, including a trip to historic Billy's Island. Fishing in the lake is excellent, particularly for warmouth, bluegill, catfish, chain pickerel and bowfin. Boating is dependent upon water levels.

Perhaps the most famous inhabitant of the Okefenokee Swamp is the American Alligator. Officials estimate that 12,000 of the country's largest reptile live within the 402,000-acre refuge. To safely view these creatures, visitors should admire them from a distance and keep hands and feet inside boats. Pets are not allowed in boats, even privately owned vessels.

Because Stephen C. Foster State Park is located within a National Wildlife Refuge, gates lock at closing and a $5 refuge fee is charged.

Amenities
Facility Amenities
  • Parking on Site
  • Boat Launch
  • Picnic Area
  • Picnic Shelter
  • Public Restrooms
  • Rentals Available
  • Self-guided Tours
Suitable for Ages
  • All Ages
Group Amenities
  • Group-Friendly
General Information
  • Family-Friendly
Rentals
  • Bicycle
  • Boat Rental
  • Canoe / Kayak
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