The Lodge at Hartley Oaks Campground: Your Premier Getaway in Folkston, GA

The Lodge at Hartley Oaks Campground Introduce

Nestled amidst the beautiful live oak trees of Folkston, Georgia, The Lodge at Hartley Oaks Campground offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, making it a truly exceptional destination for locals across our great state. More than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV, Hartley Oaks provides a comprehensive outdoor experience, complete with diverse lodging options, recreational activities, and even facilities for special events. If you're a Georgian seeking a peaceful retreat, a family adventure, or a picturesque venue for a celebration, this campground has something special to offer.

This article is designed to give you, our valued local users, an in-depth look at The Lodge at Hartley Oaks Campground. We’ll explore its strategic location near one of Georgia's natural wonders, detail the extensive list of services and amenities available, highlight its standout features that consistently earn rave reviews, and provide all the necessary contact information. We aim to paint a clear, engaging, and factual picture, showcasing why Hartley Oaks is not just a campground, but a versatile resort that embodies Southern charm and hospitality, perfect for creating lasting memories right here in Georgia.

The Lodge at Hartley Oaks Campground is beautifully situated at 661 Ozzie Rowell Lp, Folkston, GA 31537, USA. This address places it in Charlton County, in the southeastern part of Georgia. Folkston is a small, charming town widely known as the "Gateway to the Okefenokee Swamp," making the campground an ideal base for exploring this incredible natural treasure.

For residents across Georgia, The Lodge at Hartley Oaks Campground offers excellent accessibility. From Jacksonville, Florida, it's a very convenient drive, typically less than an hour, primarily via US-1 and then local routes. If you're coming from larger Georgian cities like Savannah, the drive is manageable, usually around 2 to 2.5 hours via I-95 S and then connecting to US-1. From Atlanta, the journey will be longer, approximately 4 to 4.5 hours, generally involving I-75 S to I-16 E, and then further connections south. However, the well-maintained state and local roads make the drive straightforward, even for those towing RVs. The slightly off-the-beaten-path location on Ozzie Rowell Loop contributes to its serene "lodge" atmosphere, ensuring that once you arrive, you truly feel immersed in a peaceful environment away from the main thoroughfares. This balance of reasonable travel time and secluded natural beauty makes it a highly appealing destination for Georgians seeking an authentic outdoor experience without venturing too far from home. Its proximity to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge further enhances its appeal, offering a world-renowned natural attraction just a short drive away.

The Lodge at Hartley Oaks Campground goes beyond basic camping, offering a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable, enjoyable, and memorable stay for all guests. The positive feedback from real customers consistently highlights the high quality of these offerings.

Diverse Lodging Options: The campground offers 108 RV hookups (30 and 50 amp, water, sewer), spacious campsites for tent camping, and 6 comfortable cabins. This variety ensures there's a perfect spot for every type of traveler, from rustic tenters to those seeking cabin comforts.
Natural Swimming Pool: A standout feature is the brand-new natural swimming pool, described as a place to "relax and cool down." It's surrounded by sand, allowing guests to sunbathe, picnic, swim, or even build sandcastles. Day passes are available, making it accessible even for day visitors.
Stocked Fishing Pond: The property features a stocked fishing pond at the back of the property, perfect for leisurely fishing experiences. It's open to all (not just overnight guests), with options for renting kayaks or bringing your own (for a fee). Catch-and-release rules apply.
Kayak and Bike Rentals: To further enhance outdoor exploration, guests can rent kayaks for the pond or bikes to explore the 52-acre property and even local trails, including what used to be the town of Newell.
Sports Equipment Access: The campground provides access to various sports equipment, including basketballs, volleyballs, and more, along with a volleyball net and low basketball net, encouraging active fun for groups and families.
On-Site Cafe/Bistro: A cafe, or "Swamp Fire Grill" as it's sometimes known, offers "great food." This on-site dining option adds immense convenience, allowing guests to enjoy meals without leaving the property.
Event Hall and Venues: The Lodge at Hartley Oaks also functions as a versatile event venue, featuring an event hall, a gazebo, and a pavilion. This service caters to weddings, reunions, corporate retreats, and other special occasions, providing a rustic yet elegant setting.
Clean Restrooms and Showers: Numerous customer reviews praise the cleanliness and good maintenance of the communal restrooms and hot showers, a critical aspect of any positive camping experience.
Friendly and Professional Staff: The staff are consistently described as "very nice," "friendly," "professional," and "responsive," contributing significantly to a welcoming and supportive environment for guests.
Picnic Basket & Setup Service: Guests can rent woven picnic baskets or opt for a pre-setup picnic by the pond, offering customized food options for a hassle-free, memorable outdoor dining experience.
Adorable Goats: The presence of "adorable and very well cared for" goats adds a unique and charming element, particularly appealing to families and animal lovers.

The Lodge at Hartley Oaks Campground stands out in the Georgia camping landscape due to a combination of its natural attributes and thoughtfully curated amenities, consistently earning high praise from visitors.

Serene and Peaceful Environment: The most frequently highlighted feature is its profoundly serene, peaceful, and quiet atmosphere. Guests consistently describe it as a tranquil retreat, perfect for unwinding and escaping the noise of daily life. The setting amidst a "private 57-acre native live oak forest" enhances this sense of calm.
Exceptional Cleanliness: The dedication to cleanliness is a major highlight, with reviews repeatedly commending the spotless restrooms, showers, and overall well-kept grounds. This commitment significantly elevates the guest experience.
Unique Natural Pool: The brand-new natural swimming pool with a sand bottom and surrounding plants is a truly distinctive feature, offering a refreshing and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional chlorinated pools. It's a key attraction, especially during warm Georgia summers.
Versatile Accommodations: The availability of over 100 RV sites with full hookups, traditional campsites, and cabins (described as "unique, clean, well-appointed") caters to a wide range of preferences, ensuring that every guest finds their ideal comfort level.
On-Site Dining and Activities: The convenience of an on-site cafe/bistro with "great food" and a variety of recreational options like a stocked fishing pond, kayak/bike rentals, and sports equipment access means guests have plenty to do without ever leaving the property.
Proximity to Okefenokee Swamp: Being located near the "Gateway to the Okefenokee Swamp National Wildlife Refuge" is a huge draw for nature lovers and adventurers. It provides easy access to one of Georgia's most significant natural wonders, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, kayaking, and exploring the unique ecosystem.
Friendly and Welcoming Staff & Community: Consistently positive feedback about the staff's professionalism and friendliness, combined with the "warm and welcoming" nature of fellow campers, fosters a genuinely pleasant and inviting social environment.
Pet-Friendly: The campground is noted for being "animal friendly," making it a great option for those who wish to travel with their furry companions, an important consideration for many locals.
Stargazing Opportunities: Several reviews mention "best star gazing ever" and "beautiful views of the stars," indicating that the rural location provides excellent dark skies for astronomy enthusiasts.

For direct inquiries, reservations, or to learn more about the various offerings at The Lodge at Hartley Oaks Campground, you can use the contact information provided below. Given the range of amenities and services, calling ahead is recommended to confirm availability for specific lodging types, event bookings, or to inquire about activities and passes.

Address: 661 Ozzie Rowell Lp, Folkston, GA 31537, USA

Phone: (912) 390-9454

Mobile Phone: +1 912-390-9454

The official website, often listed as thelodgeathartleyoaks.com, is also an excellent resource for detailed information on lodging options, amenities, activities, and event planning, allowing you to explore everything this versatile campground has to offer before your visit.

For Georgians seeking an unparalleled outdoor experience, The Lodge at Hartley Oaks Campground in Folkston stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination. Its prime location near the magnificent Okefenokee Swamp means that one of Georgia’s true natural wonders is practically in your backyard, offering endless opportunities for exploration, wildlife viewing, and appreciation of our state's unique ecosystems. This accessibility makes it ideal for weekend getaways or longer vacations, reducing travel time and maximizing your enjoyment of the great outdoors.

What truly sets Hartley Oaks apart for locals is its remarkable blend of serenity, cleanliness, and comprehensive amenities. Unlike many basic campgrounds, The Lodge at Hartley Oaks offers a resort-like experience with its unique natural pool, stocked fishing pond, and rental options for kayaks and bikes, ensuring there's always something engaging to do for all ages. The consistently praised clean facilities, including restrooms and showers, and the availability of diverse accommodation types—from RV sites to comfortable cabins—mean that every Georgian can find a comfortable fit for their camping style.

Furthermore, the genuine Southern hospitality exhibited by the "friendly and professional staff" and the "warm and welcoming" community of fellow campers creates an inviting atmosphere that makes every visitor feel at home. This isn't just a place to stay; it's a place to connect, relax, and create cherished memories. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a peaceful solo retreat, or even a special event, The Lodge at Hartley Oaks Campground provides an exceptional setting that combines natural beauty with thoughtful amenities and heartfelt service, making it a true gem for locals looking to experience the best of Georgia.