Seize the opportunity to explore Cumberland Island!

It’s likely that a day trip won’t feel like enough time on this incredible island. The good news is that the island is well set up for camping and you’ll see a good number of visitors plan an overnight. If you are staying for one night, we recommend Sea Camp on the southern part of the island.  You can reserve here.

Take the Cumberland Island Ferry for a pleasant 45 minutes from St. Mary’s. There are two departures and returns to the island generally, but check the ferry website as things change (and are less frequent) depending on the season. From there, many visitors opt to take the “Land and Legacy Tour.”

You’ll likely want to stay on the southern part of the island for much of the day, visiting Dungeness and the beach. I recommend bringing a bike to maximize your experience. Per the ferry website, bikes are allowed on the ferry for a $10 fee, and space is limited. Bike transportation is first-come-first-served and rentals are in limited quantity. Adult bikes can be rented on the island for $16 per day or $20 overnight.

Some important notes from the National Park Service:

• You must have a reservation to camp on the island

• Print a copy of your camping permit within 10 days of the start of your trip and bring it with you to the park

• Sea Camp is the only campground with drinkable water (treat water at all other campgrounds)

• No fires at the wilderness sites (Hickory Hill, Yankee Paradise, and Brickhill Bluff)

• Be prepared to hang your food at all three wilderness campgrounds

• Carts of any kind are not allowed north of Sea Camp. Campers should be prepared to hike all gear into Stafford Beach and all three wilderness sites.