Okefenokee Swamp Park
Okefenokee Swamp Park
4.4
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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
About
Located in the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, the Okefenokee Swamp Park is a convenient point of entry and a magnificent show-window for the "Land of the Trembling Earth." The park's lily-decked water trails, with their miraculously reflective waters mirroring the overhanging beauty, lead to all points in this vast wilderness of islands, lakes, jungles, forest and prairies. Boat tours on original Indian waterways, wilderness walkways, Pioneer Island and native animals in their own habitat, all combine to weave a spell of pioneer American life. Headwaters of the Suwannee and St. Mary's Rivers, Okefenokee is a National Wildlife Refuge which covers nearly a half million acres.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.4
678 reviews
Excellent
435
Very good
153
Average
53
Poor
24
Terrible
13
KBD87
Arkansas1,375 contributions
Feb 2024 • Solo
I stopped by the park on my travels and spent a very pleasant hour or so walking the trails and visiting the exibits. It’s about 5 miles off the highway and you start by paying at the top let booth. Then you make your way to the visitor center where the staff provides you with maps and info on boat and train rides. There is a walk where you can see alligators and turtles in zoo like settings as well as other educational stops as well as a snack bar. There is a small island with cabins and other items of European settlement. I would have enjoyed seeing info on the Native American life in the area as well. The staff was energetic and knowledgeable. I wish I would have had time to take the boat tour.
Written February 10, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MeMe4life
4 contributions
May 2022
We had a wonderful time, booked the package online for 2 adults and 1 child which was a breeze then when we arrived with another adult tag along, it was no problem to add them to the package and pay the extra.
The nature show was really short and disappointed there was not a baby alligator. Also unaware of yellow flies, they swarm you on the boat tour and regular bug spray does not help. Recommend long sleeves and pants.
We got rained out during the boat ride so they offered a refund or rain check for the full package good for a year. Already planning next visit.
The nature show was really short and disappointed there was not a baby alligator. Also unaware of yellow flies, they swarm you on the boat tour and regular bug spray does not help. Recommend long sleeves and pants.
We got rained out during the boat ride so they offered a refund or rain check for the full package good for a year. Already planning next visit.
Written May 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Angie
6 contributions
May 2022
We have been to the park a few times over the years (we live an hour away) for the holiday lights, but this was our first time in the light of day. We were camping nearby and conveniently booked online. I had forgotten my bug repellent back at our campsite, so I definitely needed to purchase some because it is June and the yellow flies are everywhere. The repellent at the gift shop is the best repellent I've ever used.
The boat trip through the swamp was fun and interesting. The boat had cushioned seats and plenty of leg room. Our guide, Taylor, shared her knowledge of the swamp and the inhabitants. She mixed in some funny anecdotes along the way. About halfway into the tour, we docked and walked along a short boardwalk to see Skull Lake. Very cool spot!
Back in the boat, Taylor told us about the flora and fauna along the way, why the water is dark, and even a story about spanish moss (something us southerners know all about.) We saw a couple of alligators and some turtles as we came into the clearing.
We chose to skip the nature show and grab something to eat in the snack bar. It was affordable and cooked to order. Friendly staff at the snack bar.
After eating, we went to the train depot to take the train tour. This is the same trip we take when coming for the holiday lights, but it was such a treat to see it in the daylight. It was 90 degrees when we caught the train, and the seats had been sitting in the sun, so you can imagine how hot it was to sit on the metal bench. If you go when it is hot, I would suggest bringing a towel to sit on.
The train ride has interesting exhibits that depict ife in the swamp years ago and the train stops for a short time to allow you to get off walk around a pioneer homestead.
After the train trip, make sure to walk over to the boardwalk to see alligators and turtles in their habitat.
The staff is knowlegable and friendly. There is truly nothing like the Okefenokee Swamp. It's an important ecosystem, not to mention the headwaters of the St Marys River (Ga/Fl border) and the Suwannee River.
We enjoyed our time at the park. I highly recommend the Okefenokee Swamp Park.
The boat trip through the swamp was fun and interesting. The boat had cushioned seats and plenty of leg room. Our guide, Taylor, shared her knowledge of the swamp and the inhabitants. She mixed in some funny anecdotes along the way. About halfway into the tour, we docked and walked along a short boardwalk to see Skull Lake. Very cool spot!
Back in the boat, Taylor told us about the flora and fauna along the way, why the water is dark, and even a story about spanish moss (something us southerners know all about.) We saw a couple of alligators and some turtles as we came into the clearing.
We chose to skip the nature show and grab something to eat in the snack bar. It was affordable and cooked to order. Friendly staff at the snack bar.
After eating, we went to the train depot to take the train tour. This is the same trip we take when coming for the holiday lights, but it was such a treat to see it in the daylight. It was 90 degrees when we caught the train, and the seats had been sitting in the sun, so you can imagine how hot it was to sit on the metal bench. If you go when it is hot, I would suggest bringing a towel to sit on.
The train ride has interesting exhibits that depict ife in the swamp years ago and the train stops for a short time to allow you to get off walk around a pioneer homestead.
After the train trip, make sure to walk over to the boardwalk to see alligators and turtles in their habitat.
The staff is knowlegable and friendly. There is truly nothing like the Okefenokee Swamp. It's an important ecosystem, not to mention the headwaters of the St Marys River (Ga/Fl border) and the Suwannee River.
We enjoyed our time at the park. I highly recommend the Okefenokee Swamp Park.
Written May 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sofia B
27 contributions
Nov 2022 • Family
It was a good “Georgia” experience. The boat tour was relaxing, and the nature show was cool because we got to touch animals. The train ride is a little unnecessarily long due to getting off of the train to look at a homestead, but it was enjoyable other than that. I recommend visiting when it’s warm or during the night in November or December for their Christmas lights.
Written November 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sandi T.
Dahlonega, GA194 contributions
Mar 2021 • Family
Setting the record straight here, the boat ride is 45minutes in duration, part of that time is stopped at the tower to allow visitors to climb. As of right now (looks like it has been this way for a while) the only way to climb the tower is by boat ride. For one adult and two 16 yr olds it was $91, that includes boat, & train rides, and an animal exhibit (we left without seeing the animals).
Tim was our guide for the boat and he was very knowledgeable. Shaun was our guide for the train and basically repeated the same info about the area we had heard on the boat. Both gents were super nice and ready to answer all questions. But over all the price did not equal the experience. As a side note the speakers used to hear on the train were less than functional, they do not open for business till 9am so no rides or experiences happen till at least 10am. You can roam around outside the visitor center free of charge.
Tim was our guide for the boat and he was very knowledgeable. Shaun was our guide for the train and basically repeated the same info about the area we had heard on the boat. Both gents were super nice and ready to answer all questions. But over all the price did not equal the experience. As a side note the speakers used to hear on the train were less than functional, they do not open for business till 9am so no rides or experiences happen till at least 10am. You can roam around outside the visitor center free of charge.
Written March 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Todd G
Macon, GA46 contributions
Oct 2021
I took my 10 year old son for a day at the swamp. We did the 45 minute boat ride (highly. recommend), the train ride (again, recommended), and finished the day with a Nature Show by a young lady named Claire. She was so bubbly and full of energy. She made the show entertaining, and her knowledge of the alligators, turtles and snakes made learning fun. My son soaked up all he could while she spoke. He was able to hold a baby alligator and a snake. I'd recommend this trip to anyone, especially if you have children or are a child at heart.
Written October 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Danielle B
1 contribution
Aug 2022 • Family
The staff is incredibly friendly, funny, and knowledgeable. The boat tour guide had so much personal knowledge. The train conductor was able to keep 100 kids safe while giving an amazing tour.
Written August 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dawn C
Bardstown, KY53 contributions
Jul 2021
Listen. Stop the car and come check this place out! The first 5 mins we saw a HUGE alligator and we weren't even planning on going in! That sealed the deal and before we knew it we were on a 3 hour adventure!! You have several choices, but don't skip out-do it all!! It was about$30/person but you get a boat ride through the swamp with a great tour guide, train ride through the park and an hour presentation. Plan on spending AT LEAST 3 hours, and its worth it.
You can brink your own drinks and walk around in between scheduled attractions, and there's plenty to see. When we were there the yellow flies were OUTRAGEOUS and they do bite so buy the bug spray-trust me its worth the $10!
You can brink your own drinks and walk around in between scheduled attractions, and there's plenty to see. When we were there the yellow flies were OUTRAGEOUS and they do bite so buy the bug spray-trust me its worth the $10!
Written July 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alicia E
Abilene, TX2 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
We took our boys expecting it to be crazy busy since it is summer and a bit chaotic as it usually is in crowded places with 3 children but we were so wrong. We went on a Sunday morning and it was not busy at all. All of the staff we encountered was very kind. The tours and shows were great, full of information and close together so we weren’t having to run between each activity. The kids not only got to see plenty of wildlife but in the show they were able to learn about and touch some of the animals. They have a great little gift shop, and things weren’t incredibly overpriced, we were able to get souvenirs for the kids as well as some friends back home. My only complaint was how incredibly hot it was which has nothing to do with OSP but I mention it as a suggestion to go early. The later on the day the more hot the train and boat rides will be. Overall it was a great experience and I look forward to getting back during the holidays to see all the lights they spoke of.
Written July 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
travelgirl315
Canton, GA1,662 contributions
Jun 2023 • Family
Definitely worth a stop of you happen to be in the area. This park is the real deal, a swamp and all that you would expect from that environment. Don't let that deter you though, bring insect repellent and you will ne fine. There are 3 main attractions here including a boat tour, which was calm and comfortable. A train ride which stopped at a homestead recreation, and a nature show which is indoors. In addition, there are some self-guided walking bridges and museum-type displays. There is a gift shop and small snack shop, staff are friendly and informative.
Written June 22, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
years ago I visited the swamp and there were snakes hanging from the trees, What kind of snakes were these?
Written December 9, 2023
How long is the boat tour in the 3 Hour package with Nature Show and Train?
Written March 15, 2021
I am planning a trip to the swamp. I want to make sure the alligators have come out of hibernation. When will this happen
Written January 19, 2021
Their activity is temperature dependent. If it is a warm day the reptiles will be out and about.
Written January 20, 2021
We went in September. It was not overly hot or humid. There were few mosquitos but some nasty biting flies. The park was not crowded at all.
Written November 21, 2019
Is it a good place to visit with small children? Is it safe?
Written May 30, 2019
What is an adequate amount of time to spend at the park and include a boat tour?
Written February 2, 2018
If you come by yourself can you still do the boat tour?
Written July 29, 2017
Does the water level board walk have rails to hold on too? Is it in good condition? I have nightmares about walking across broken water level boards.
Written March 29, 2017
The walkways are in very good shape. There are some handrails where needed, other wise, there are no handrails. I have teenage children and felt safe the entire time. If I had toddlers, I would want a restraint, if only for my sanity.
Written March 30, 2017
The Okefenokee Swamp Park has between 50-55000 visitors each year. However, we are only 1 of the 4 main entrances. There are also Stephen Foster in Fargo, Kingfisher Landing and The Federal Wildlife Reguge in Folkston.
Written March 3, 2017
I am interested in just driving through on the Swamp Drive, without getting out of the car. If I do, would my dog be able to stay in my car, as neither of us will get out of the car. Just driving through.
Written February 9, 2016
I'm not sure about this question, I can't give you an answer on this one, so it will be best for you to contact the office to find out this information.
Written February 16, 2016
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