The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Things to Do in Savannah - GA

1. Forsyth Park: The Heart of Outdoor Savannah

Why It’s Special:

Forsyth Park is more than just a city park—it’s the beating green heart of Savannah. Spanning 30 acres in the historic district, it’s the most iconic and accessible spot for outdoor recreation, relaxation, and people-watching.

What You Can Do Here:

• Stroll beneath towering oak trees draped in Spanish moss

• Snap a photo by the famous Forsyth Fountain (it’s Instagram gold!)

• Enjoy a picnic, play frisbee, or lounge on the grassy lawns

• Shop local goods at the Saturday Farmers’ Market

• Join locals for yoga, concerts, or art events

Pro Tip:

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. If you’re a dog lover, the southern end of the park has a dog-friendly area.

2. Skidaway Island State Park: A Coastal Nature Haven

Distance from Downtown: 25 minutes by car

Entrance Fee: $5 daily parking pass

Located along Georgia’s Intracoastal Waterway, Skidaway Island State Park is a must-visit for anyone craving a dose of untouched nature and coastal charm. The park features maritime forests, salt marshes, and well-marked trails perfect for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.

Top Trails in the Park:

• Sandpiper Trail Loop (1-mile): Easy and scenic; great for spotting fiddler crabs and egrets.

• Big Ferry Trail (3-mile loop): A moderate hike through oak-pine hammocks and Civil War-era ruins.

Wildlife Watching:

Look out for deer, raccoons, armadillos, and over 200 species of birds. The park is also part of the Colonial Coast Birding Trail.

Camping:

Want to stay overnight? The park offers tent and RV camping sites, making it a perfect weekend nature getaway.

3. McQueen’s Island Historic Trail: Bike, Walk & Soak in the Views

Length: 6 miles (one way)

Surface: Crushed gravel trail

Once a railway route connecting Savannah to Tybee Island, the McQueen’s Island Historic Trail is now a peaceful trail for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. With panoramic views of marshes, tidal creeks, and native wildlife, it’s a quiet gem for outdoor lovers.

Why It’s Worth It:

• See osprey nests, herons, and even dolphins in the waterways

• Great for a flat, easy ride or long walk with scenic photo ops

• Minimal crowds compared to city paths

How to Get There:

Trailheads are located just east of the Savannah River, with parking available at Fort Pulaski.

4. Savannah National Wildlife Refuge: A Hidden Gem for Wildlife Enthusiasts

Location: Off US-17, 20 minutes from downtown

Size: 31,000+ acres of wetlands, forests, and tidal creeks

This sprawling refuge is one of the best outdoor activities in Savannah if you're into birding, wildlife photography, or just love a tranquil nature drive. It’s a critical habitat for migratory birds, alligators, and other coastal creatures.

Things to Do:

• Drive the 4-mile Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive (self-guided auto tour)

• Hike the Tupelo Trail and Cypress Loop Trail

• Bring binoculars for birdwatching—especially during migration seasons

Best Time to Visit:

Fall and spring offer prime wildlife activity and cooler temperatures. Be sure to bring bug spray!

5. Kayaking & Paddleboarding on the Salt Marshes

If you want to experience Savannah’s waterways from a different angle, kayaking through the salt marshes and tidal creeks is unforgettable.

Top Launch Points:

• Butterbean Beach: Great for beginners and families

• Isle of Hope Marina: Scenic and shaded with calm water

• Tybee Island: For ocean paddles and dolphin-spotting adventures

Guided Nature Tours:

• Savannah Canoe and Kayak offers eco-tours, sunset paddles, and even full-moon excursions.

• Moon River Kayak Tours specialize in beginner-friendly and wildlife-focused routes.

Tips for Paddlers:

• Always check tide charts before heading out

• Wear sun protection and bring a waterproof bag

• Guided tours are best for first-time paddlers

6. Bonaventure Cemetery: Beauty, History & Nature Combined

Not Your Average Cemetery…

Bonaventure Cemetery is one of Savannah’s most famous landmarks—not just for its haunting beauty but for its peaceful walking paths and ancient live oaks. Situated along the Wilmington River, it blends history, art, and nature seamlessly.

Must-See Spots:

• Grave of poet Conrad Aiken

• The hauntingly beautiful Gracie Watson statue

• Spanish moss-draped oaks creating cathedral-like paths

Why It Counts as Outdoor Fun:

It’s a place where nature and stories coexist. Bring your walking shoes and take your time wandering among 100+ years of Southern Gothic history.

7. Oatland Island Wildlife Center: Family-Friendly Nature Adventure

Distance from Downtown: 15-minute drive

What It Is:

A blend of zoo, nature preserve, and educational center, Oatland Island Wildlife Center is ideal for families or those curious about native animals in naturalistic habitats.

Animals You’ll See:

• Red wolves, cougars, alligators, owls, and foxes

• Trails wind through forested enclosures and salt marshes

Why Visit:

It’s educational, accessible, and offers a gentle 2-mile loop trail. Perfect for kids or those wanting to experience nature up close without going full “wild.”

8. Wormsloe Historic Site: Live Oak Tunnel & Coastal Forest Trails

Distance: ~10 miles from downtown Savannah

Entrance Fee: $10 for adults (as of 2024)

Famous for its majestic 1.5-mile avenue of live oaks, Wormsloe Historic Site is also a peaceful place to walk through Georgia’s coastal ecosystem.

Outdoor Highlights:

• Hiking trails through maritime forest and salt marshes

• Interpretive signs explaining the site’s colonial-era history

• Picnic areas and photo-worthy spots

Great For:

Couples, photographers, and anyone who loves blending history with nature walks.

9. Tybee Island: Savannah’s Seaside Playground

No list of outdoor activities near Savannah is complete without mentioning Tybee Island, just 30 minutes from downtown.

What to Do Outdoors on Tybee:

• Hit the beach for sunbathing, swimming, or a casual stroll

• Visit the Tybee Island Lighthouse for panoramic views

• Take a dolphin-watching boat tour—they’re nearly always successful!

• Explore North Beach Birding Trail for a coastal avian safari

Water Activities Galore:

Paddleboarding, jet skiing, parasailing—you name it! Outdoor fun on Tybee is limitless.

10. Sunset Spots in Savannah: Best Outdoor Views

Want to end your day in nature with a stunning view? Check out these local favorites:

• River Street: Watch cargo ships glide by as the sun dips over the Savannah River

• Hutchinson Island Ferry Landing: Free ferry + beautiful skyline views

• Butterbean Beach: Quiet sunsets over salt marshes

• Tybee Island Pier: Classic ocean sunset experience

Conclusion: Let Savannah’s Outdoors Refresh Your Soul

Savannah isn’t just a city of ghosts and gardens—it’s a living, breathing outdoor paradise. Whether you're exploring ancient oak-lined cemeteries, kayaking with dolphins, or birdwatching in serene refuges, the city’s natural side will surprise and delight you.

These outdoor activities in Savannah offer the perfect mix of adventure, tranquility, and Southern charm. So, lace up your shoes, grab your camera (and maybe some bug spray), and get ready to discover the wilder side of this historic gem.