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Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina

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Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina Overview

Rating

Phone (912) 656-5351

Address 1182 Belle Bluff Rd, Townsend, GA 31331, USA

Website http://bellebluff.wordpress.com/

Hours Monday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina Location & Map

GeorgiaMcIntosh CountyTownsendBelle Bluff Road

Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina About

For Georgians seeking the quintessential coastal camping experience, where the sounds of the marsh and the gentle lapping of the river replace city noise, Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina in Townsend, Georgia, stands as a true hidden gem. This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a welcoming community nestled along the scenic White Chimney River, offering unparalleled access to the rich aquatic playground of coastal Georgia. Whether you're an avid angler, a boating enthusiast, or simply someone yearning for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, Belle Bluff provides a unique blend of comfort and outdoor adventure.

What truly sets Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina apart is its genuine hospitality and the personal touch provided by its owner, Ronald, and the amiable camp host, Richard. Their dedication to making every guest feel at home, coupled with their extensive local knowledge, transforms a simple stay into a memorable experience. This local charm, combined with the stunning natural backdrop of the Georgia coast, makes it a favored spot for those who know about it.

This article will guide you through the various facets of Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina, exploring its strategic location, the array of services and features it offers for both land and water adventurers, and why it has earned a loyal following among locals and discerning travelers throughout Georgia. From its convenient full hookups to its fantastic riverfront access, Belle Bluff is more than just a campground – it's a coastal haven.

Location and Accessibility

Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina is strategically located at 1182 Belle Bluff Rd, Townsend, GA 31331, USA. Townsend is a charming, quieter community in McIntosh County, Georgia, perfectly positioned to offer the best of coastal living without the crowds. The campground's address places it directly on the beautiful White Chimney River, a deep saltwater river that provides easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) and, consequently, the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. This riverfront location is a significant draw for boaters and those who love watersports, as it allows for direct launch and dockage. Accessibility to Belle Bluff is convenient, being just about 10 minutes off Interstate 95 (Exit 67 for northbound travelers and Exit 58 for southbound). This makes it an ideal stop for those traveling along the East Coast or for Georgians looking for a quick and easy drive to a coastal escape. While it offers a secluded and peaceful atmosphere, it's not entirely isolated. Nearby, visitors can find the historic town of Darien, known for its seafood restaurants and historical sites. The famed "Fish Dock," a casual seafood restaurant, is also within easy reach, offering delicious local fare. This balance of tranquil natural surroundings and reasonable access to local amenities and major transportation routes makes Belle Bluff an incredibly attractive and convenient destination for all types of campers and boaters.

Services Offered

Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina prides itself on offering a comprehensive range of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both RV and tent campers, as well as boaters. The park's amenities cater to a variety of needs, making it a versatile coastal getaway:

  • Full Hookup RV Sites: The campground offers various RV sites, including 30-amp and 50-amp options, with full hookups (electric, water, sewer). This ensures that RVers have all the necessary connections for a convenient stay.
  • Tent and Van Sites: For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, there are dedicated tent and van sites, some with 110v electric and water hookups, and even primitive tent-only options for the ultimate outdoor immersion.
  • Boat Dockage: A significant highlight is the presence of brand-new, 8-foot wide aluminum floating docks on the White Chimney River. These docks can accommodate vessels up to 60 feet in length and 20 feet in width, with various power options (20amp, 30amp, 50amp) available. Boat dockage is often included or available for a fee, making it ideal for those bringing their own watercraft.
  • Clean Restrooms and Hot Showers: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of the bathrooms and the availability of hot water in the showers, which is a crucial comfort after a day of outdoor activities.
  • Secure Garbage Disposal: The park maintains secure and well-placed garbage dumpsters to ensure cleanliness and prevent issues, especially during warmer months.
  • WiFi Access: For those who need to stay connected, Wi-Fi is available, often for a small daily or weekly fee, allowing guests to check emails or browse online.
  • On-Site Management/Host: The presence of friendly and knowledgeable staff, like Richard the camp host and Ronald the owner, who are highly praised by visitors, offers invaluable local insights and assistance, greatly enhancing the guest experience.
  • Pet-Friendly Environment: Belle Bluff welcomes pets, with spaces for dogs to run and stretch, making it a great option for those traveling with their furry companions.

Features / Highlights

Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina is celebrated for its unique features that create a memorable coastal Georgia experience:

  • Direct River Access & Boating Opportunities: Its prime location on the White Chimney River with extensive floating docks means direct access to a deep saltwater river, perfect for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing. The ability to dock your boat for no extra charge (as per one review, though fees may apply for larger vessels or longer terms) is a massive draw.
  • Excellent Fishing, Crabbing, and Shrimping: The 567-foot wide fishing dock provides ample space for anglers to try their luck catching fish, crab, and shrimp right from the property. This makes it a paradise for those who enjoy fresh seafood and the thrill of the catch.
  • Friendly and Knowledgeable Staff: The owner, Ronald, and the camp host, Richard, consistently receive high praise for their kindness, willingness to accommodate, and extensive knowledge of the area, including fishing and boating tips. This personal touch significantly enhances the overall experience.
  • Spacious and Level Sites: Campers appreciate the "level gravel sites with plenty of room," ensuring easy setup for RVs of various sizes and providing ample personal space. Even when the campground is busier, it maintains a spacious feel.
  • Scenic River Views: Many campsites offer "awesome views of the river," providing picturesque sunrises and a tranquil backdrop for relaxation. The beauty of the coastal marshlands and huge moss-draped oaks adds to the scenic appeal.
  • Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite being accessible from a state highway, the campground is often described as "reasonably quiet" and "not too big," offering a serene escape where you can relax and enjoy nature's sounds.
  • Proximity to Local Seafood and Attractions: The campground is conveniently located near the "Fish Dock" restaurant for delicious seafood and is a short drive from historic Darien, offering cultural exploration and additional dining options. It’s also close to various barrier islands and wildlife refuges, making it a great base for exploring coastal Georgia.

Promotions or Special Offers

While specific, highly publicized promotions may vary or be seasonal, Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina provides value through its flexible booking options and, in some cases, complimentary services that act as ongoing benefits for guests. Based on available information and common practices for campgrounds of this nature:

  • Flexible Booking: The owner's willingness to "change our arrival and departure dates because of a vehicle emergency," as noted by a reviewer, indicates a customer-centric approach that provides valuable flexibility, especially for travelers.
  • Included Boat Dockage: One reviewer specifically highlighted being "able to dock our boat for no extra charge." While it's always best to confirm current policies, this potential inclusion of boat dockage with a stay is a significant added value for boat owners.
  • Daily and Monthly Site Rentals: Offering both daily and monthly rates allows guests to choose the most cost-effective option for their stay duration, with monthly rentals typically providing a more economical rate for extended visits. Specific pricing details for different site types (e.g., 30 Amp Deluxe Waterfront RV Site, 50 Amp RV Site) are available upon inquiry or on their direct booking platforms, demonstrating transparent pricing.
  • Potential Bundled Experiences: Given the excellent fishing and crabbing opportunities, it's possible that the marina side of the business might offer package deals combining camping stays with guided fishing charters or boat rentals, though this would need direct confirmation.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on rates, availability, and any specific offers that might be running, it is always recommended to contact Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina directly via phone.

Contact Information

For those ready to plan their coastal Georgia camping and boating adventure at Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 1182 Belle Bluff Rd, Townsend, GA 31331, USA

Phone: (912) 656-5351

Mobile Phone: +1 912-656-5351

It is always a good practice to call ahead, especially during peak seasons or if you have specific requirements for your RV size or boat. Speaking directly with Ronald or Richard can ensure you get the best site for your needs and all your questions answered, making your arrival smooth and your stay enjoyable.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina is an exceptional fit for locals in Georgia, especially those who cherish the state's unique coastal environment and outdoor pursuits. For Georgians, this campground offers a convenient and accessible escape to a serene riverfront setting without the extensive travel often associated with vacations. Its location in Townsend, just off I-95, makes it an easy drive from many parts of the state, ideal for spontaneous weekend getaways or longer, more relaxed stays.

The core appeal for locals lies in its dual identity as both a comfortable campground and a functional marina. This means that Georgians who own boats can easily bring them along, utilizing the excellent docks and immediate river access for fishing, crabbing, and exploring the vast coastal waterways. For families, it’s an opportunity to introduce children to the joys of fishing and marshland ecology in a safe and welcoming environment. The highly praised cleanliness of facilities, combined with the friendly and knowledgeable staff like Ronald and Richard, fosters a community-like atmosphere where locals feel truly at home and well-cared for.

Furthermore, the park's reasonable rates and flexible stay options make it a financially sensible choice for regular recreational use. It's a place where Georgians can establish a recurring retreat, a familiar haven to unwind, connect with nature, and indulge in their passion for the water. Belle Bluff Island Campground and Marina truly embodies the spirit of coastal Georgia living, making it an invaluable local resource for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone seeking a genuine, hospitable, and picturesque escape on their home turf.

Customer Reviews

4.0
126 reviews
P
Patti A
Apr 18, 2025

28' travel trailer rig. I had a tough time rating Belle Bluff. I wanted to give it five stars because 1. Richard - the camp host and “mayor” - is an amicable fellow with much knowledge of the area, fishing, boating, and much more. He is happy to chat and share his knowledge. 2. Ronald, the owner, is a kind gentleman, who was willing to change our arrival and departure dates because of a vehicle emergency. 3. The location is fantastic, right on the White Chimney river and not far from the ocean by boat. 4. We were able to dock our boat for no extra charge. 5. Campground is not too big. 6. Campground was not crowded upon our arrival and even seemed spacious when there were other rigs and tenters. I almost gave Belle Bluff four stars because 1. The no-see-ums (sand gnats) are atrocious - bring strong bug spray. 2. Our “neighbors” dogs barked almost constantly. Because they are frequent visitors, there wasn’t much to be done about it. We’d stay there again.

K
Kathy Johnson
Apr 16, 2025

This campground has awesome views of the river in coastal Georgia. The campsites are nice and well cared for. The owner and his on-site assistant were very friendly and welcoming. The bathrooms were quite clean and had hot water. Nearby is the Fish Dock, a casual restaurant with delicious seafood. We stayed one night and loved this campground. We will be back!

A
Alex Russell
May 26, 2025

My husband and I tent camped Memorial Day weekend and were so glad we came! Beautiful views, great fishing, peace and quiet, no unwanted critters, no mosquitoes, clean restrooms, and a hospitable host who checked on us after a storm! We ate fresh seafood and enjoyed a beer in Darien, and it was easy to take a day trip to St. Simon's and Jekyll Islands! Loved it!

M
Marie Wilkerson
Mar 13, 2025

We love living here. Mr Ron is super nice and always responds quickly and handles things in a timely manner. It's a beautiful area and the river is right there. Most of the neighbors are very quiet and it's very peaceful there.

K
Kathy Abrell
Mar 28, 2025

Really just a fishing campground. Owners and Mayor great. Charged extra for wifi. Need new bathrooms with hand soap and paper towel. Close to lots of things.