Evans County PFA

For those of us in Georgia who truly appreciate the tranquility of nature combined with excellent outdoor recreation, Evans County Public Fishing Area (PFA) in Claxton is a hidden gem. This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a comprehensive outdoor destination managed by the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division, renowned for its superb fishing, peaceful campgrounds, and well-maintained facilities. Locals consistently praise its quiet atmosphere and the quality of the fishing, making it a beloved spot for a quick getaway or an extended stay.

If you're looking to cast a line, unwind by a campfire, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of a Georgia natural area, Evans County PFA offers a welcoming environment. It’s a testament to our state’s commitment to providing accessible and high-quality outdoor experiences for everyone. From seasoned anglers to families seeking a first-time camping adventure, this PFA delivers on its promise of a relaxing and rewarding time in the great outdoors. The care put into maintaining the property, combined with its abundant natural resources, makes it a true asset to our local communities.

Many visitors have found it to be a surprisingly beautiful and well-kept spot, often exceeding expectations. So, if you're ready to trade city sounds for the rustle of leaves and the splash of a fish, Evans County PFA awaits.

Evans County PFA is conveniently located in Claxton, GA 30417, USA, with a specific physical address for the main area being 4757 Area Line Rd, Claxton, GA 30417. This places it in Evans County, a charming part of Southeast Georgia known for its rural beauty and friendly communities. For us Georgians, accessing the PFA is generally straightforward, though a key tip from seasoned visitors is to "just follow the signs to the public fishing area" as GPS might sometimes misdirect you.

Claxton, the closest town, is well-connected by state highways, including US-280. The PFA is approximately 8.5 miles east of Claxton on US Hwy 280, with clear signs guiding you the rest of the way. This ensures relatively easy navigation for RVs and vehicles towing trailers.

The accessibility extends beyond just the roads. Within the PFA itself, the roads are "well maintained," making it easy to drive to various fishing areas, boat ramps, and campsites. This well-kept infrastructure ensures a smooth experience once you've arrived, allowing you to focus on enjoying the natural surroundings. While nestled in a natural setting, the PFA is still within a reasonable drive of essential services in Claxton, so stocking up on supplies before your visit is convenient. This blend of natural seclusion and practical access makes Evans County PFA an ideal destination for locals seeking an outdoor escape without venturing too far from home.

Evans County PFA is a comprehensive outdoor facility managed by the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division, offering a range of services designed to enhance the fishing and camping experience.

• Campground with RV & Tent Sites: The PFA features a campground with 22 campsites. These include 14 full-size RV/tent sites, five of which are premium sites offering full sewer service and pull-through parking pads, and 8 tent-only sites. All campsites contain electricity, water, a picnic table, and a fire ring.
• Full Hookups: Many RV sites come with full hookups, including water, electricity (likely 30-amp and 50-amp options), and sewer. This provides all the necessary utilities for a comfortable RV stay.
• Clean Restrooms & Showers: While one review mentioned slippery bathroom floors when wet, the overall sentiment is that facilities are "really clean and well maintained" and provide hot water.
• Stocked Fishing Lakes: The PFA boasts three separate lakes (Bidd Sands Lake, Lake Longleaf, and Lake Woody) that are intensively managed and stocked with a variety of fish species, including Largemouth Bass, Bluegill (Bream), Channel Catfish, Crappie, and Redear Sunfish. Lake Longleaf is specifically managed for Channel Catfish and stocked multiple times a year.
• Boat Ramps: Concrete boat ramps with access docks are available on Lake Longleaf and Bidd Sands Lake, accommodating everything from canoes to larger boats (though motor size restrictions may apply, so check regulations).
• Fishing Docks/Piers: Lake Longleaf features a fishing pier, providing easily accessible bank fishing. There are also "several areas to fish" from the bank.
• Nature Trails: The property offers nature trails that meander through diverse habitats, including pine stands and wetlands, suitable for hiking and wildlife viewing.
• Archery Range: A recently renovated, ADA accessible archery range with covered shooting pavilions and various static and 3D targets is available.
• Event Center & Pavilion: A commercial-kitchen Event Center (accommodating up to 85 people) and a Covered Pavilion are available for reservations, ideal for group gatherings and events.
• Camp Host: Reviews mention a "really cool camp host," indicating on-site management or assistance to ensure a smooth stay.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse habitats support abundant wildlife, offering opportunities for birdwatching (wading birds, ospreys, eagles, songbirds) and spotting mammals (coyotes, otters, raccoons, bobcats, alligators).

Evans County PFA is celebrated for its blend of natural beauty, excellent recreational opportunities, and well-maintained facilities, making it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Georgia.

• Exceptional Fishing: The PFA is primarily a fishing paradise. With three distinct lakes intensely managed and regularly stocked with Bass, Catfish, Bream, and Crappie, it offers consistent and promising fishing experiences. Reports of "monsters near the bank" and "several cats" being caught highlight the quality of the fishery. It's also one of the few PFAs that allows live fish as bait.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Visitors consistently rave about the "nice quiet place" and the "wonderful peaceful trip." Even on busy weekends, the campsites can remain relatively empty, offering a serene escape.
• Well-Maintained and Clean Facilities: Reviews emphasize that "Everything is really clean and well maintained." The roads are good for RV access, and the campground itself is noted as "nicer than expected," indicating a high standard of upkeep by the Georgia DNR.
• Friendly and Helpful Camp Host: The presence of a "really cool camp host" adds to the positive experience, suggesting good on-site support and a welcoming environment.
• Diverse Camping Options: With both full-hookup RV sites (including premium pull-throughs with sewer) and dedicated tent-only sites, the PFA caters to a wide range of camping preferences. Each site also includes a picnic table and fire ring.
• Scenic Beauty and Wildlife: The 372-acre area encompasses diverse habitats, from forested wetlands to pine uplands, offering "scenic views and abundant wildlife viewing." Birdwatchers can spot everything from wading birds and ospreys to various songbirds, and larger mammals like coyotes and bobcats are also present.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Beyond fishing and camping, the PFA hosts events like Kids Fishing Events and offers an archery range, making it suitable for family outings and engaging younger visitors in outdoor activities.
• ADA Accessibility: The newly renovated archery range is ADA accessible, indicating a commitment to inclusivity for all visitors.

As a Public Fishing Area (PFA) managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Evans County PFA operates under state park and public land guidelines rather than typical commercial promotions. While there aren't "buy-one-get-one-free" deals, there are inherent value propositions and specific events that serve as special opportunities for locals.

• Affordable Access: Access to Georgia's PFAs is generally very affordable. For Georgians aged 16 to 64, a fishing license (which can be obtained for $5 a day or $15 a year) provides access to fish, birdwatch, hike, and paddle on the PFA. This effectively acts as a low-cost "pass" to a wide array of outdoor activities.
• Kids Fishing Events: The PFA regularly hosts special events, such as annual Kids Fishing Events. These events often involve stocking lakes with catfish specifically for the event, providing a fantastic and often free or low-cost opportunity for families to introduce children to fishing, often complete with food and prizes. This is a significant "special offer" for local families.
• Managed Hunts: While the primary focus is fishing and camping, the PFA also offers limited hunting opportunities (e.g., alligator and waterfowl quota hunts). These are managed through specific permits and seasons, providing unique outdoor experiences for hunters. Note that camping areas and trails may be closed during these hunts.
• Reservations for Facilities: The Event Center and Covered Pavilion can be reserved for group gatherings, offering a well-equipped venue at a set fee, which can be a valuable service for local organizations or families planning events.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on camping fees, specific event dates (like the Kids Fishing Events), and any regulations (e.g., fishing license requirements), visitors should consult the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division website or call the PFA directly. Pricing for campsites can be found on the reservations portal (www.reservations.gooutdoorsgeorgia.com), with 14 RV/tent sites and 8 tent-only sites, all containing electricity, water, a picnic table, and a fire ring. Five of the RV sites are premium with full sewer service.

For those interested in visiting or learning more about Evans County PFA, here is the primary contact information:

• Address: 4757 Area Line Rd, Claxton, GA 30417, USA (This is the specific address for the PFA within Claxton.)
• General Phone: (912) 727-2112 (This number is often listed as the Region 6 Office or for issues at the campground.)
• Toll-Free Number for Reservations/Assistance: 1-800-366-2661 (This is the general Georgia DNR number for reservations and fishing information.)

When planning your trip, it's advisable to call the PFA directly using the 912-727-2112 number for specific questions about current conditions, fishing reports, campsite availability, or any local regulations. For making campsite reservations, visiting www.reservations.gooutdoorsgeorgia.com is the recommended method. Remember to follow the local signs to the PFA once you're in the Claxton area, as GPS can sometimes be inaccurate for the specific entrance.

For us Georgians, Evans County PFA stands out as an exceptional outdoor retreat that perfectly caters to our love for nature, fishing, and peaceful escapes. Its suitability for locals is multifaceted, combining excellent recreational opportunities with a welcoming and well-maintained environment.

Firstly, its reputation as a "nice quiet place to fish" is a significant draw. With three well-stocked lakes teeming with bass, catfish, and bream, it's a reliable spot for anglers of all skill levels to enjoy a successful day on the water. The availability of boat ramps and fishing docks ensures easy access for everyone, making it a go-to destination for local fishing enthusiasts.

Secondly, the camping facilities are a major highlight. With both RV sites offering full hookups (including premium sewer sites) and dedicated tent-only areas, the PFA accommodates diverse camping preferences. The consistent praise for its cleanliness, maintenance, and the helpfulness of the camp host means locals can expect a comfortable and hassle-free camping experience. This makes it ideal for spontaneous weekend trips or longer, relaxing getaways right in our backyard.

Finally, Evans County PFA offers more than just fishing and camping. Its nature trails, archery range, and opportunities for wildlife viewing provide additional ways to connect with Georgia’s beautiful natural environment. For families, the Kids Fishing Events offer a fantastic and accessible way to introduce children to the joys of the outdoors. All these elements, combined with its easy accessibility from various parts of Southeast Georgia, make Evans County PFA a premier and highly recommended destination for any Georgian seeking a rewarding and peaceful outdoor adventure.