South Georgia Spotlight: Folkston, Georgia

Tucked in the far southeast corner of Georgia near the Florida border, Charlton County’s seat sits at the edge of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, one of the largest freshwater ecosystems in the United States.

Start with the swamp. Guided boat tours through the Okefenokee wind past cypress forests, alligators, herons, otters, and the occasional bear — with options ranging from sunset excursions to overnight wilderness treks. Every season offers something different.

Then there’s the Folkston Funnel, a double track carrying trains to and from Florida that draws railroad enthusiasts from across the region. Up to 60 trains pass in a single day, and Railside Lodging puts you right in the middle of it. Stay in the old Railmaster’s Lodge, bunk in a real caboose, or park your RV railside. It’s one of those only-in-South-Georgia experiences that’s hard to explain until you’ve done it.

Downtown Folkston offers local dining at spots like Whistlin’ Dixie Cafe and Okefenokee Restaurant, along with shops worth exploring at a slower pace. Each October, the Okefenokee Festival brings the community together in a celebration of the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

Folkston is a small town with a lot going on beneath the surface. For the traveler willing to venture to the southeast corner of the state, it more than delivers.