Stafford Beach Campground

From pristine, undeveloped beaches to a designated wilderness of tidal marshes, marine forest and freshwater lakes, from indigenous peoples’ cultural sites to the ruins of an 18th century mansion, Cumberland Island has plenty to see and explore. Located approximately two hours south of Savannah, Cumberland Island is the largest of Georgia’s barrier islands. It can only be reached by passenger ferry from the town of St. Marys, or by private boat. Day trips via the ferry are the most common way to see the island, but this only allows time for a small portion of the island to be seen. To explore the full extent of the island, and discover all its fascinating history, scenery, and characteristics, requires at least a few days—and this can only be done by camping on the island.

The Sea Camp Campground is the most popular destination for island overnighters. However, to escape the crowds for a more secluded island experience, head instead for the Stafford Beach Campground. This small campground can be reached by a 3.5-mile walk from the boat dock. This requires packing in all the food and gear necessary for your stay. The campground offers 10 tent sites under a canopy of shade trees, and is situated near a wide, sandy beach. Each site has tables and cooking grills, and the campground has flush toilets and cold showers, otherwise, the camping is pretty spartan. Water from spigots must be treated (boiled or filtered), and all food and scented items must be hung from trees. Trash receptacles are not available, so all waste must be packed out. Reservations are required; sites are $12/night.

From the Stafford Beach Campground, the beach is just a few minutes’ walk away. Here, you can soak up the sun, take a dip in the Atlantic, or cast a line in the surf for catfish, whiting, croaker, and bluefish. Bring your bike, or rent one at the ferry dock, and ride the park roads to the Dungeness Ruins, the site of a 1730s hunting lodge, or visit Plum Orchard for a guided tour of an opulent, early 1900s plantation-style mansion. Wildlife abounds on the island, much of which can be seen from the island’s hiking and biking trails, as well as the woods and wetlands. Watch for alligators, armadillos, raccoons, loggerhead turtles, snakes and pelicans. Don’t get too close to the feral horses—they bite!