Screened Sanctuaries: Staying in the 'Squirrels' Nests' Shelters at Historic Blakeley

CRIMSON HIKING FIELD GUIDE

Screened Sanctuaries: Staying in the 'Squirrels' Nests' Shelters at Historic Blakeley

Two primitive, screened-in camping shelters at Historic Blakeley State Park — a concise guide to what’s waiting for small groups and how to plan a stay.

Screened Sanctuaries: Staying in the 'Squirrels' Nests' Shelters at Historic Blakeley.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Crimson
Operator
Historic Blakeley State Park
Category
Hiking
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Tucked into a secluded, scenic corner of Historic Blakeley State Park, the two primitive “Squirrels’ Nests” camping shelters offer a back-to-basics overnight option: a secure screened sleeping area and deck, a nearby picnic table and grill, a campfire ring and a portable restroom, all designed for small-group stays with minimal services.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE SITES

Primitive, Screened Shelters with Decks

Each of the two shelters provides a screened-in secure camping area and a deck, designed for small groups who want a sheltered, insect-protected place to sleep without on-site water or electrical service.

THE CAMPFIRE

Picnic Table, Grill and Fire Ring

Sites include a picnic table, fire ring and grill, letting visitors center evenings around a campfire and simple outdoor cooking in a secluded park setting.

THE PRACTICALS

Minimal Services, Simple Stays

These are primitive rentals—no water or power service on site—and each site is supported by a nearby portable restroom for basic needs.

What the day feels like

What the stay feels like

Expect a quiet, pared-down camping experience: sheltered, screened sleeping quarters and an outdoor living area anchored by a deck and picnic setup, all placed in a secluded area of the park for small groups to gather around a single fire ring and grill.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this rental suits — and who should look elsewhere.

1
Solo & Overnight MinimalistsA solo renter can use a shelter, but the minimum age to rent is 18; reservations include fees for up to two people, and the park’s cancellation and refund rules apply.
2
Small GroupsDesigned for small groups — each shelter’s maximum capacity is six people; additional campers (age 6 and up) are charged a per-night fee.
3
Families with ChildrenFamilies can camp here, but note the minimum age to rent is 18 and minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult (21 or over) for the entire stay; extra-person fees apply for guests age 6 and up.
4
Low‑service, Budget SeekersThe shelters are primitive—no onsite water or power—so they suit campers who are comfortable without services and who accept the park’s reservation, cancellation and potential damage/cleanup fee rules.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Expect

These are primitive shelters with no water or power service. Each site provides a screened-in secure camping area, deck, picnic table, grill, fire ring and access to a portable restroom.

On‑Site Amenities

Shelters include a screened sleeping area, deck and picnic facilities; there is no built-in water or electrical hookup, and restroom facilities are provided by a portable unit nearby.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How many people can stay in each shelter?

Each shelter has a maximum capacity of six people. Reservations include fees for up to two people; all additional campers age 6 and up are $5 each per night.

How long can I rent a shelter?

Headline material notes one- to five-night rentals, while the park’s more detailed information specifies a maximum three-night stay; check the park’s reservation details before booking.

What is the cancellation and refund policy?

Reservations for the first night are non-refundable; in the event of an advance cancellation the remainder of your balance may be applied to other park rentals, services or merchandise for up to one year. Cancellations after the rental period begins are not eligible for refunds.

What are the age rules for renting and camping?

The minimum age to rent a campsite or camping facility is 18. Minors under 18 may not camp unless accompanied by an adult age 21 or over for the entire camping period.

Are there utilities at the shelters?

No; the shelters are primitive with no water or power service. A portable restroom is provided on site.

What happens if I leave trash or damage property?

Failure to properly dispose of trash at departure or damage to property will result in a minimum $50 damage fee.