Memorial Day Commemoration at Fort McAllister State Park

The Memorial Day Commemoration at Fort McAllister State Park puts you on the riverbank where Civil War history still reads clearly in earth and timber. You move through well preserved fortifications above the Ogeechee River as rangers and reenactors in period accurate clothing demonstrate field skills and daily routines. The tone stays site focused and educational, with musket fire and scheduled cannon drills providing the day’s sharpest punctuation.

You can expect a respectful, steady pace that works well for families and serious history fans alike. Plan to be inside the fort perimeter for the artillery firings and watch from the edges of the interior for the best sightlines. Between demonstrations, we recommend the museum for artifacts recovered on site, then a quiet loop out to the waterfront docks before returning to the barracks and magazine areas.

Arrive by 9:45 AM to catch the first demonstrations and sidestep the peak heat. Adult admission is typically about $5.50, so it is an easy holiday outing to budget for, but come prepared with water, sun protection, and sturdy closed toe shoes for uneven earthworks and grassy trails. Bring ear protection for younger children because the cannon reports are loud. Dogs are welcome outdoors on a six foot leash, but they cannot enter the museum or historic buildings.

If weather moves in, most programming continues in light rain, while heavy storms or lightning will pause artillery for safety. Accessibility is strongest at the museum and on paved paths; the fort interior is grass and sand that can challenge some mobility devices. You may bring food and use the designated picnic areas with tables and grills near the waterfront outside the historic fort walls. For overnight plans, Richmond Hill hotels keep you close, while park campsites and cabins offer a more immersive marshside stay; Savannah area vacation rentals and Lake.com listings add larger group options.