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Camden County The earliest residents of Crooked River State Park were the Guale and the Timucuan Indians who were pushed out and moved southward in the 1700s. Once a Royal Land Grant, Crooked River State Park was confiscated at the end of the revolution and owned by Robert Montfort. In 1792 Alexander Elliot purchased the area of the park known today as Elliott's Bluff. Records indicate in 1824 John H. McIntosh owned Mush Bluff, south of the park and Elliot's Bluff. Evidence of this plantation era and earlier times remain on the park's grounds. Old bottles, planted pines and oyster shell middens are found along the marsh edge on the east side of the park. The unofficial opening day of the park was March 27, 1947. Crooked River State Park has many rare Georgia plant species and habitats. A salt marsh rim surrounds the waterway. Long Leaf Pine, Bay, mixed hardwood, and Maritime Forests are scattered throughout park. The Crooked River and unique forest environments are home to many protected birds, reptiles, and mammals. This valuable aquatic resource and our southern geography allow animal residents and park visitors access year-round. Today the most noticeable difference to the park is the loss of land due to swift tidal currents of the river. Lost to this erosion were the first swimming pool, fishing pier, and grassy field area. Relocating five cottages to a back portion of the park was necessary to avoid the same demise. Natural forces will continue to shape Crooked River State Park as its history transitions through future generations. |
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