Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore, located off the coast of Georgia, is a breathtaking natural wonder that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. With its pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich historical background, this national park is a must-visit destination.

Situated in southeastern Georgia, Cumberland Island National Seashore covers a total area of approximately 36,418 acres. The island itself is the largest barrier island in Georgia and boasts a wide range of ecosystems, including marshes, maritime forests, and dunes. The seashore is accessible only by ferry or private boat, which adds to its exclusive charm and tranquility.

The historical significance of Cumberland Island is truly remarkable. It was once inhabited by Native Americans, particularly the Timucua tribe, before being colonized by the Spanish. Later, the island became the residence of a number of influential families, including the Carnegie family, who built the opulent Dungeness mansion. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of this mansion, as well as other historic structures, such as the First African Baptist Church and Plum Orchard Mansion, both of which provide a glimpse into the island's past.

Aside from its historical landmarks, Cumberland Island National Seashore offers a plethora of outdoor activities. The island has over 50 miles of hiking trails, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its natural beauty while spotting wildlife such as armadillos, deer, and sea turtles. Bird-watching enthusiasts will be thrilled by the thousands of migratory birds that frequent the seashore. Camping and picnicking are also popular activities, providing an opportunity to relax and take in the stunning coastal scenery.

For those looking to explore beyond the national seashore, there are several attractions nearby. St. Marys, a charming coastal town, is the gateway to Cumberland Island and offers a range of accommodation options, restaurants, and shops. The nearby Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is another fantastic destination, known for its vast swamplands and diverse animal species.

In summary, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a true gem in Georgia's landscape, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. From its pristine beaches to its rich historical landmarks, this national park provides countless opportunities for exploration and recreation. Whether it's hiking, camping, or simply admiring the stunning scenery, a visit to Cumberland Island National Seashore is sure to create unforgettable memories.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a scenic and pristine natural paradise located in the southernmost part of the state of Georgia. Situated off the coast of Georgia, this stunning national seashore occupies a significant portion of Cumberland Island, which lies in the Atlantic Ocean. The island is nestled between the mainland of Georgia and the Florida-Georgia state line, making it a unique and sought-after destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The serenity of Cumberland Island National Seashore is further enhanced by its remote and isolated location, as it is accessible only by boat, giving visitors a sense of exploration and escape from the hustle and bustle of the mainland.

Address & Contact

113 St. Marys St W
St. Marys, GA 31558
Driving Directions
Phone: 9128824336
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore would be in the months of April, May, October, and November. During these months, the average maximum temperatures range from 70 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a pleasant climate for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation ranges from 1.7 to 3.9 inches, indicating relatively low rainfall during these times. This combination of comfortable temperatures and moderate precipitation makes these months ideal for enjoying the seashore and engaging in various outdoor activities.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Cumberland Island National Seashore are: Guided Tours Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Biking Camping Hiking Boating Hunting and Gathering Hunting Swimming Saltwater Swimming

Topics

Learn about these topics at Cumberland Island National Seashore: Animals Fire

Visitor Centers

Sea Camp Ranger Station

Located at the Sea Camp dock on Cumberland Island. Visitors camping on the island must visit Sea Camp for a quick orientation and to receive their camping permits. Volunteers and rangers staff the station when available throughout the day. Here visitors can get information, see exhibits, attend interpretive programs, and rent bicycles when the ferry arrives.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Sea Camp Ranger Station.

Campsites within or near Cumberland Island National Seashore

Brickhill Bluff Wilderness Campsite

Brickhill Bluff Wilderness Campsite is one of three campgrounds in Cumberland Island’s designated wilderness on the northern part of the island. The campsite is located 10.5 miles north of the Sea Camp dock. Wilderness sites have no amenities. Fires are prohibited, but camp stoves can be used for cooking. Campers should be prepared to hang all food and trash. Water is available from a pump well located in the site and must be treated. Permits are $9 a night, good for up to 6 people.
Fees (US$): 9.00 (Wilderness Camping Fee)
Total Campsites: 4
Toilets: No Toilets
Showers: None
Potable Water: Water

Hickory Hill Wilderness Campsite

Hickory Hill is one of three campgrounds in Cumberland Island’s designated wilderness on the northern part of the island. The campsite is located 5.5 miles north of the Sea Camp dock. Wilderness sites have no amenities. Fires are prohibited, but camp stoves can be used for cooking. Campers should be prepared to hang all food and trash. Water is available from a nearby well and must be treated. Permits are $9 a night, good for up to 6 people.
Fees (US$): 9.00 (Wilderness Camping Fee)
Total Campsites: 4
Toilets: No Toilets
Showers: None
Potable Water: Water

Sea Camp Campground

Sea Camp Campground is located a half mile from the Sea Camp dock. All sites are walk-to, tent sites and campers are responsible for transporting all gear. Carts can be used. There are flush toilets, drinking water, cold showers, and a dish washing sink. Each site has a fire ring with grill, picnic table and food storage. It is common for this campground to fill up. Permits are $22 a night for individual sites good for up to 6 people. Group sites are $40 a night good for up to 20 people.
Fees (US$): 22.00 (Sea Camp individual site), 40.00 (Sea Camp Group Site)
Total Campsites: 18
Toilets: Flush Toilets - year round
Showers: Cold - Year Round
Potable Water: Yes - year round

Stafford Beach Campground

Stafford Beach Campground requires a three and a half mile hike from Sea Camp. All sites are walk-to, tent sites and campers are responsible for transporting all gear. Carts of any kind or wheeled coolers cannot be used to haul gear. The site has flush toilets, cold showers, and water spigots with potable water. The sites include fire rings with grills. Food storage lockers (bear boxes) are available. Sites are $12 a night, good for up to 6 people.
Fees (US$): 12.00 (Stafford Beach Camping Fee)
Total Campsites: 10
Toilets: Flush Toilets - year round
Showers: Cold - Year Round
Potable Water: Yes - year round

Yankee Paradise Wilderness Campsite

Yankee Paradise is one of three campgrounds in Cumberland Island’s designated wilderness on the northern part of the island. The campsite is located 7.5 miles north of the Sea Camp dock. Wilderness sites have no amenities. Fires are prohibited, but camp stoves can be used for cooking. Campers should be prepared to hang all food and trash. Water is available from a nearby well and must be treated. Permits are $9 a night, good for up to 6 people.
Fees (US$): 9.00 (Wilderness Camping Fee)
Total Campsites: 4
Toilets: No Toilets
Showers: None
Potable Water: Water

Hotels within or near Cumberland Island National Seashore

SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western St Marys Cumberland

Located in St. Marys, SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western St Marys Cumberland is in a rural location, a 4-minute drive from Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay and 5 minutes from Cumberland Island Ferry. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2710 Osborne Rd, St. Marys, Georgia 31558
Web: Link

Mariners Suites

Located in Kingsland, Mariners Suites is in the business district, a 4-minute drive from Club at Osprey Cove and 5 minutes from VA St Marys. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Planning an event in Kingsland? This hotel features 225 square feet (21 square meters) of event facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2343 Village Dr, Kingsland, Georgia 31548
Web: Link

Cumberland Kings Bay Lodges

Located in St. Marys, Cumberland Kings Bay Lodges is a 2-minute drive from Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay and 7 minutes from Cumberland Island Ferry. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and ATM/banking services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 603 San Bar Drive, St. Marys, Georgia 31558
Web: Link

Spencer House Inn Bed & Breakfast

Located in St. Marys, Spencer House Inn Bed & Breakfast is within a 5-minute walk of Cumberland Island Ferry and Cumberland Island National Seashore Visitor Center. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a library, and an elevator. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 200 Osborne Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558
Web: Link

Riverview Hotel

With a stay at Riverview Hotel in St. Marys, you'll be just steps from Cumberland Island Ferry and Cumberland Island National Seashore. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and a library. A roundtrip airport shuttle is provided for a surcharge (available 24 hours), and free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 105 Osborne Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558
Web: Link

1423 N. Fletcher - 4 Br Home

With a stay at this vacation home in Fernandina Beach, you'll be near the beach, just steps from Fernandina Beach and a 2-minute drive from Fernandina Beach Main Beach Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1423 North Fletcher Ave, Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034
Web: Link

Goodbread House Bed & Breakfast Inn

With a stay at Goodbread House Bed & Breakfast Inn in St. Marys, you'll be within a 5-minute walk of Cumberland Island Ferry and Cumberland Island National Seashore. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a computer station, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 209 Osborne Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558
Web: Link

623 Ocean Ave - 3 Br Cottage

With a stay at this vacation home in Fernandina Beach, you'll be on the beach, just a 1-minute walk from Fernandina Beach and 5 minutes by foot from Fernandina Beach Main Beach Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 623 Ocean Avenue, Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034
Web: Link

Ocean Park - 3 Br Condo

With a stay at this condo in Fernandina Beach, you'll be a 3-minute walk from Fernandina Beach Main Beach Park and 6 minutes by foot from Fernandina Beach.
Address: 403 Tarpon Ave, #124, Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034
Web: Link

Ocean Park 3 Bedroom Condo

With a stay at this condo in Fernandina Beach, you'll be just steps from Fernandina Beach and Fernandina Beach Main Beach Park.
Address: 403 Tarpon Ave. #202, Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034
Web: Link