Finding a decent place to handle the less glamorous side of RVing, specifically emptying the tanks, can be a real challenge when you’re exploring a city as enchanting and historically dense as Savannah. You’re navigating these gorgeous, narrow streets draped with Spanish moss, trying to soak in the atmosphere, and the last thing you want on your mind is the state of your black tank. Many of us have been there, circling a city, looking for a spot that’s not only accessible for a big rig but also feels safe and clean. That’s why stumbling upon a place like Lotts Island RV Campground feels like finding a little secret oasis. It’s tucked away inside Hunter Army Airfield, which might sound off-limits at first, but it presents a fantastic option for a certain slice of the RV community. It offers the full monty, full hookups and a proper dump station, all just a stone's throw from the heart of Savannah's famous squares.
Now, let's be clear about the military aspect right up front. This isn’t your typical KOA where anyone can just roll in. Lotts Island is a military recreation area, primarily for service members, retirees, and DoD folks. However, and this is the key for the rest of us, civilians who are traveling with someone holding a DoD card or those who are officially registered as guests can often get a spot. This opens a door for those of us who might be traveling with friends or family in the service. It means a last minute decision to swing through Savannah doesn’t have to end in a frantic search for a dump station or a night of boondocking with overflowing tanks. You have to do your homework and make the call, but if you can get in, it’s a game changer for visiting this part of Georgia.
The journey to the campground itself is part of the experience. You're not just pulling off a loud, chaotic interstate into a truck stop lot. You’re heading toward the coast, feeling that humid, salty air start to creep in. Once you get clearance at the Hunter AAF gate, the environment changes. It’s orderly, it's clean, and it’s secure. That sense of security is something you can’t put a price on, especially when you’re in an unfamiliar area. You’re close to the city, but you’re buffered from the noise and the hustle. Before you even get to your site, you can plan your attack on the city. You’ve got the Historic Landmark District with its twenty three stunning squares, each one like a little postcard from the 18th century. You can spend days just walking from one to another, admiring the architecture, the fountains, and the grand old homes. And the food, well, let’s just say you’ll want to walk a lot to make room for all the incredible Southern cooking.
When you’ve had your fill of cobblestones and city life, Tybee Island is just a short drive away, about eighteen miles down US-80. You can leave the rig parked securely at Lotts Island and take your tow vehicle for a day of sun, sand, and surf. It’s the perfect coastal escape. We’re talking dolphin cruises, kayaking through the salt marshes, and watching the sunset over the Atlantic. Having a home base this convenient makes all of that so much more accessible and relaxing. You’re not worried about finding parking for a 35-foot motorhome near the beach. Instead, you’re just enjoying the trip.
Using the dump station at a full-service campground like this one is a completely different world compared to the chaos of a highway travel center. There’s no jockeying for position with a line of impatient truckers behind you. Here, you’ll likely find a quiet, dedicated lane with plenty of space to get everything staged. You can pull out your gloves, your sewer hose, and your cleaning supplies without feeling rushed. The folks at the recreation office are usually very helpful and can point you right to the spot and explain any specific procedures. The sewer inlet is well-maintained, and the rinse water spigot is thoughtfully placed a few feet away, which really minimizes the chance of any unpleasant back-splatter. In a humid climate like coastal Georgia’s, keeping your tanks and equipment clean is critical. The reliable water pressure here makes it easy to do a thorough flush of the black tank and rinse your hose properly. A clean setup is a happy setup, and it goes a long way in preventing those lingering odors that can plague an RV in the heat.
Let's talk about the amenities in a way that matters to us RVers. The potable and rinse water setup is a huge plus. Having a dedicated, non-potable rinse hose means you’re not risking contamination by using your fresh water hose for the dirty work. It’s a small detail that shows they understand the needs of RVers. The full hookups at each site, including electric and sewer, are the real luxury. You can run your air conditioning full blast after a hot day in Savannah without a care in the world, and you don’t have to worry about your battery levels or moving the rig to dump. It allows you to truly settle in. They also have trash disposal on-site, so you can offload all your accumulated garbage as you head out. A quick tip, make sure you secure the lids tightly. The local raccoons are clever and persistent.
Here’s a really important heads up, and it’s a dealbreaker for many: pets are generally not allowed. Because the campground is on an active military installation, there are strict rules. If you travel with a dog, a cat, or any other furry co-pilot, you absolutely must call ahead and confirm the current policy. Don’t just show up and hope for the best. Also, this is not a one-stop-shop travel center. There’s no fuel, propane, or guest laundry on site. You’ll need to plan for that and top off your tanks and propane elsewhere.
As for the cost, the exact rate wasn’t publicly posted when I last checked. Military campgrounds are known for being very affordable, often charging a modest day-use or overnight fee. Your best bet is to call the Outdoor Recreation office directly. Ask about the current pricing and what payment methods they accept. Even if there’s a small fee, the value you get is immense. The convenience of being so close to a major tourist destination, combined with the security and the quality of the facilities, often makes it more than worth it.
For a smooth visit, be prepared. Have your disposable gloves, a good quality black-tank hose, and some disinfectant wipes ready before you even pull into the dump lane. It makes the process quick and clean. Try to time your arrival and departure for mid-morning on a weekday. The weekend rush of check-ins and check-outs will be over, giving you plenty of space and time. And I can’t stress this enough, have your documents ready for the gate. A valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and any guest paperwork they require are essential for getting on base. Finally, that Georgia humidity is no joke. Using a good holding-tank treatment after every dump will keep your RV smelling fresh and pleasant.
So, what’s the final word? For RVers with the right connections to gain access, Lotts Island RV Campground is an absolute gem. It’s the perfect answer for anyone exploring Savannah who values security, tranquility, and full-hookup convenience. It might take a little extra planning, but the payoff is a stress-free home base for enjoying one of the South’s most beautiful cities.
Lott Island Rd, Savannah, GA 31409
(912) 315-9554
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
