Cabin camping options near Cumberland Island National Seashore can be found within 35 miles of the ferry departure point in St. Marys, Georgia. The coastal region maintains mild winter temperatures averaging 45-65°F and hot summers with highs regularly reaching 90°F. Most cabin rentals in this area feature screened porches to combat the persistent coastal insects, particularly abundant during the May-September months.
What to do
Paddle the tidal waterways: At Crooked River State Park Campground, rangers provide guided water excursions. "We paddled in the tidal river. The people in the bait shop were very helpful at helping us plan our route with the tide," notes Jan P. who recommends timing your paddle with the tides for easier navigation.
Visit Cumberland Island: The ferry to Cumberland Island departs from St. Marys, making cabin stays at nearby campgrounds ideal for day trips. "Don't miss going to Cumberland Island when you are there," recommends Jan P. who stayed at Crooked River State Park in January during record low temperatures but still found plenty to do.
Explore nature trails: Little Talbot Island State Park Campground offers multiple trail options. "About 5 miles of packed sand made an easy walk. Take your kite!" shares Denise O. who enjoyed the undisturbed beach with driftwood during her first solo tent camping trip.
What campers like
Educational wildlife programs: Crooked River State Park Campground offers ranger-led nature programs. "The rangers were excellent during the nature education. We truly enjoyed touching and learning about local wildlife. While exploring, we even found a new turtle nest!" explains Tiffany C., who visited with her children.
Dark skies for stargazing: Okefenokee Pastimes Cabins and Campground maintains a minimal lighting policy. "Pastimes actually has a policy where they turn off all their lights at night so as not to contribute to light pollution and to preserve the most amazing star-gazing experiences," explains Stuart K., noting this campground ranks among the top 10 darkest skies on the East Coast.
Mini golf amenities: Several parks offer family recreation beyond nature activities. "There was also putt putt golf course as well which made for a fun time!" shares Alyssa M. about the recreational options at Crooked River State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal temperature fluctuations: Winter camping can bring unexpected cold snaps. "We went in January. It was record low temperatures. It was still fun," notes Jan P. from Crooked River State Park, highlighting the need for proper cold-weather gear during winter months.
Site size limitations: Many campgrounds have size constraints for larger RVs. "Sites are very small and roads through campground are very narrow and curvy. Great for tents and small RV's," advises Jessie T. about Little Talbot Island State Park Campground.
Beach access variables: Not all coastal campgrounds offer immediate beach access. "The campgrounds are on intercostal side of the park. The beach is the other side of the road," explains Denise O. about Little Talbot Island, noting the "short stroll over the dunes on a well marked path" to reach the beach.
Tips for camping with families
Book cabins early for summer trips: As one Jacksonville North-St. Marys KOA visitor noted, "Very clean with lots of fun activities like mini golf, pool, jumping pad and a dog run for your pet. They serve free waffles and pancakes in the morning too." Susan R. recommends this campground for "a simple and fun weekend to just hang out with your family."
Plan for day trip timing: When scheduling island visits, consider ferry schedules. "We woke up to the most gorgeous views of the Crooked River. The rangers were excellent during the nature education... An easy drive to the beach topped off our fun holiday weekend!" shares Tiffany C. who stayed at Crooked River State Park.
Bring fishing gear: Many cabin locations offer fishing opportunities for kids. "There is a great little pool area complete with a little Tiki Bar that serves up some OK premade elixirs... Within a short distance of the place, you've got plenty of golf courses, tennis courts and of course all of the water sports (fishing, boating, kayaking, parasailing, etc.) that you could hope for," notes Stuart K. about Southern Retreat RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Plan for campsite constraints: Narrow roads require careful navigation at some parks. "One gets the distinct impression that maintenance is a priority with these folks. Are flat sites important? You bet! We stayed one night at E6. Very nice," shares Fred H. about Jacksonville North-St. Marys KOA.
Internet connectivity options: Several parks offer reliable WiFi for digital nomads. "I specifically chose a site with a clear view of the sky to the NNE, and it worked perfectly," explains Denis P. about his Starlink experience at Crooked River State Park. "The tent sites are definitely oversized and offer zero privacy, but for our needs—a quick overnight stop with internet and power—it was a great fit."
Check bathroom facilities before booking: Bathroom quality varies significantly between parks. "The bath house near us was clean and modern and had four separate accessible private bathrooms with toilet, sink, and shower so it would be easy for families to take all the kids in at once. There was also a nice laundry area in this building," notes Cyndi B. about her experience at Crooked River State Park Campground.
