Fort McAllister Historic State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fort McAllister State Park |
|
---|---|
![]() Inside the fort
|
|
Location | Bryan County, Georgia, USA |
Nearest city | Richmond Hill, Georgia |
Fort McAllister Historic State Park
|
|
Area | 30 acres (12 ha) |
Built | 1861 |
Architect | Captain John McCrady |
NRHP reference No. | 70000197 |
Fort McAllister State Park is a large park in Georgia, covering about 1,725 acres. It's located near the towns of Keller and Richmond Hill. You can find it on the south side of the Ogeechee River, and some parts even touch the Atlantic Ocean. It's only about ten miles south of Savannah.
This park is special because it's home to Fort McAllister. This fort is the best-preserved example of an earthwork fortification from the Confederacy. Earthworks are like walls or forts made from packed dirt and earth.
During the Civil War, soldiers from the Union army tried to capture Fort McAllister seven times, but they failed every time! The fort finally fell in 1864 when General Sherman took it during his famous "March to the Sea."
The park is right on the coast. It's filled with huge live oak trees and a big salt marsh. There's also a museum inside the park. It has many interesting items from the Civil War. Fort McAllister was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 because of its important history.
Contents
What You Can Do at Fort McAllister
Fort McAllister State Park offers many things to do and places to stay. It's a great spot for outdoor adventures and learning about history.
Camping and Staying Over
- 56 spots for tents, trailers, or RVs if you want to camp.
- 2 special campsites for "backcountry" camping, which means they are more basic and away from the main area.
- 7 cozy cottages if you prefer a cabin.
- 2 picnic shelters for group meals.
- 2 pioneer campgrounds for larger groups.
- 1 group shelter for big gatherings.
Trails and Water Fun
- Hiking trails: There are 4.3 miles of trails. One trail is 3.1 miles long, and another is 1.2 miles long.
- Boat ramps: You can launch your boat here.
- Dock: A place to tie up your boat.
- Fishing pier: A great spot to go fishing.
Learning and Play
- Civil War museum: Learn all about the fort's history and the Civil War.
- Playground: A fun area for kids to play.
Special Events at the Park
The park hosts several exciting events throughout the year. These events often bring history to life!
- 4th of July Barbecue, Picnic and Craft Show: Celebrate Independence Day with food and crafts in July.
- Fort tours: Take a guided tour to learn more about the fort.
- Labor Day and Winter Musters: These events often feature historical reenactments, showing what life was like for soldiers.
- Super Sundays: Special themed days with unique activities.
Photos
|