Fort McAllister Historic Park

Fort McAllister Historic Park is a state park covering roughly 1,725 acres along the Ogeechee River with preserved Civil War military structures, oak trees hung with Spanish moss, and coastal salt marshes. The grounds include boat ramps, a fishing pier, camping areas with more than 60 sites, waterfront cottages, and multiple hiking trails.

The fort was built as an earthwork fortification during the 1860s and resisted multiple attacks from Union ironclad vessels. In December 1864, forces under General Sherman captured the site during their drive toward the coast.

The museum inside displays items from daily life at the fort, including soldier uniforms, weapons, and personal gear. These objects help visitors understand what daily existence was like for those stationed here during the conflict.

The park offers multiple trails and accessible areas to explore on foot, with information signs at key locations. It is best to arrive early in the day when weather is pleasant and the grounds are less crowded.

The fort had special ovens that heated cannonballs to red-hot temperatures before firing them at wooden ships to start fires. This technique was one of the most dangerous coastal weapons used against vessels of that era.

Location: Richmond Hill

Inception: 1970

Address: 3894 Fort McAllister Road, Richmond Hill, GA 31324

Phone: +19127272339

Website: https://gastateparks.org/FortMcAllister

GPS coordinates: 31.88357,-81.17901

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:01