Three Hours Around Rose Dhu: Canoeing Savannah’s Quiet Marsh at Camp Low
Total Capacity: 22 People • Three Hour Duration • Certified Adult Required • Flat Rate: $10
At slack tide the marsh holds its breath. Spartina grass stands at attention, mullet flick the surface like thrown coins, and the channels around Rose Dhu Island loosen their grip on the current for just long enough to invite you in. Slip a canoe off the sandy launch at Camp Low and the water greets your bow with a glassy nod, then dares you to find the island’s pulse. This is Lowcountry paddling at its most honest: a three-hour arc of tide, light, and birdcall where the maze of creeks is both guide and trickster.
Trail Wisdom
Time Your Launch With Slack Tide
Aim to start within an hour of high or low tide to reduce current and make the loop around Rose Dhu more manageable.
Footwear That Can Get Muddy
Oyster shells and pluff mud line the banks—wear closed-toe water shoes to protect your feet at launch and landings.
Certification Is Required
An ACA Paddlesports or Canoe/Kayak certified adult (with in-person training) must be present to use the canoes—no exceptions.
Hydrate And Cover Up
Bring at least 1–2 liters of water per paddler and sun protection; the marsh reflects light and can intensify UV exposure.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A quiet side channel on the island’s leeward edge that often hosts terrapins at mid-tide
- •Oyster rakes near the northern bend—great for spotting redfish tails on a flooding tide
Wildlife
Bottlenose Dolphin, Great Egret
Conservation Note
Georgia’s salt marsh is a vital nursery habitat—avoid disturbing oyster beds, keep a wide berth from roosting birds, and pack out all trash.
Savannah is the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts, and the surrounding Lowcountry is part of the Gullah-Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Migratory bird activity
Challenges: Strong spring tides, Occasional thunderstorms
Comfortable temps and active wildlife make spring ideal. Watch tide swings and fast-moving storm cells.
summer
Best for: Early-morning calm, Long daylight hours
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Biting insects and pop-up storms
Go early or late to beat the heat. Pack extra water, sun protection, and bug spray.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Clear, low-angle light
Challenges: King tide events, Variable winds
Crisp mornings and glassy afternoons shine in fall; keep an eye on king tide dates for stronger currents.
winter
Best for: Quiet waterways, Excellent visibility and birding
Challenges: Cool winds, Shorter days
Layer up for chilly breezes and plan a midday paddle for warmth and light.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
USCG-Approved PFDEssential
Wear it at all times—currents and boat traffic make a life jacket non-negotiable.
Closed-Toe Water ShoesEssential
Protects feet from oysters and provides traction in marsh mud during launches and landings.
Wide-Brim Hat and Sun Gloves
The marsh reflects sunlight; extra coverage helps prevent sunburn during long, exposed stretches.
Dry Bag with Phone/MapEssential
Keeps navigation aids and emergency contacts protected if water splashes into the canoe.
Common Questions
Do I need certification to rent a canoe at Camp Low?
Yes. An adult with American Canoe Association Paddlesports or Canoe/Kayak certification (including an in-person component) is required for use of the canoes.
How long is the paddle around Rose Dhu Island?
Plan for 2.5–3 hours depending on tide and wind. Distance varies by route and water level, but most paddlers complete a relaxed loop within the rental window.
Is the water flat or moving?
It’s tidal flatwater. Currents can be noticeable, especially mid-tide. Launch near slack tide for the easiest conditions.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect wading birds like egrets and herons, osprey, diamondback terrapins, mullet, and possibly bottlenose dolphins in deeper channels.
Are life jackets provided?
PFDs are required. Confirm availability at booking or bring your own USCG-approved life jacket in your size.
Can beginners do this trip?
Yes, with a certified adult leading and proper timing around slack tide. Beginners should avoid peak current and windy afternoons.
What to Pack
USCG-approved PFD—wear it at all times; Tidal chart or app—plan launch near slack tide; Closed-toe water shoes—oyster protection and marsh traction; Sun kit (hat, UPF shirt, sunscreen)—marsh glare intensifies UV exposure
Did You Know
Georgia protects roughly one-third of the entire U.S. Atlantic coast’s salt marsh—about 368,000 acres—making it one of the most intact marsh systems on the East Coast.
Quick Travel Tips
Book an early slot to avoid afternoon sea breezes and storms; Check Vernon/Forest River tide tables the night before; Bring bug spray in warm months—no-see-ums like calm air; Leave time to rinse gear—salt and marsh mud linger
Local Flavor
Refuel in Savannah’s Sandfly neighborhood: Driftaway Café serves fresh-catch plates and hearty salads, while Sandfly BBQ does slow-smoked classics worth a detour. For a post-paddle pint, head downtown to Moon River Brewing and toast the tides with a coastal ale.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International (SAV), ~30–40 minutes by car. Launch: Camp Low on Rose Dhu Island (exact directions provided after booking). Driving: ~20–25 minutes from downtown Savannah. Cell service: Generally good on higher ground; spotty in creeks. Permits: Proof of ACA small watercraft certification required for the responsible adult; PFDs required.
Sustainability Note
These creeks are living nurseries—minimize wake near oyster beds, avoid landing on fragile marsh grass, and pack out micro-trash like sunscreen wipes and snack wrappers.