Okefenokee Swamp Camp n Paddle – April 25–27, 2026
Immerse yourself in one of North America’s most unique wilderness fisheries at the Okefenokee Swamp Camp n Paddle, headquartered at Okefenokee Adventures in Folkston, Georgia and exploring the blackwater of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. This three-day, non-competitive Camp n Paddle focuses on education, safety, and shared exploration, making it ideal for both seasoned kayak anglers and paddlers experiencing the swamp for the first time.
The Okefenokee is a 438,000‑acre blackwater swamp known for its tannin-stained channels, cypress forests, and wildlife-rich prairies, offering a true backcountry paddling and fishing experience. Target species for this event include largemouth bass, chain pickerel, bowfin (mudfish), warmouth, bluegill, redbreast sunfish, and other panfish that thrive in the swamp’s acidic waters. Anglers can expect slow-moving channels, lily pad fields, cypress knees, and submerged structure that create textbook ambush points for predator species and countless pockets for light-tackle panfish action.
Instruction throughout the weekend emphasizes reading blackwater habitat, understanding how water color, depth, and vegetation affect fish location, and choosing effective lures and presentations for bowfin, pickerel, and bass in tight quarters. As with all Georgia Kayak Fishing events, safety is a top priority: life jackets are required at all times on the water, and group communication is supported through dedicated event chats for weather updates, routing, and check-ins. Event leaders and experienced swamp veterans will be on hand to help participants prepare for backcountry conditions, discuss wildlife awareness, and answer gear and rigging questions specific to the Okefenokee.
Running Friday through Sunday, the Camp n Paddle format gives you time to launch from multiple access points, fish different sections of the refuge, and soak in sunrise and sunset sessions on the water. The club provides Saturday dinner, creating a relaxed camp atmosphere where paddlers can swap stories, compare tackle, and review maps and routes for future Okefenokee adventures. Due to the swamp’s popularity and limited infrastructure, participants are encouraged to secure lodging or camping arrangements near Folkston and confirm refuge access details early to ensure a smooth, stress-free weekend.
Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Saint George.
