Can You Camp On Cumberland Island? (A Comprehensive Guide)

AvatarByDale Richard Camping

Can You Camp On Cumberland Island?

Cumberland Island is a remote barrier island off the coast of Georgia, and it’s one of the most beautiful and unspoiled places in the country. It’s also home to a variety of wildlife, including wild horses, dolphins, and sea turtles. But what about camping? Is it possible to camp on Cumberland Island?

The answer is yes, you can camp on Cumberland Island. However, there are a few things you need to know before you go. First, camping is only allowed in designated areas. Second, you need to obtain a permit from the National Park Service. And third, you need to be prepared for the challenges of camping in a wilderness environment.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at camping on Cumberland Island. We’ll discuss the different camping areas, the permit process, and what you need to bring with you. We’ll also provide tips for making your camping experience as enjoyable as possible.

So if you’re thinking about camping on Cumberland Island, read on for all the information you need to know.

Can You Camp On Cumberland Island? Yes There are 11 backcountry campsites on Cumberland Island, each with a fire ring, picnic table, and tent pad.

Overview of Cumberland Island Camping

Cumberland Island is a barrier island located off the coast of Georgia. It is part of the National Seashore and is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild hogs, and sea turtles. There are several different types of camping available on Cumberland Island, including backcountry camping, primitive camping, and RV camping.

Location and size of Cumberland Island

Cumberland Island is located approximately 70 miles south of Savannah, Georgia. It is the largest barrier island in Georgia and is about 18 miles long and 3 miles wide. The island is mostly undeveloped and is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild hogs, and sea turtles.

Different types of camping available on Cumberland Island

There are three different types of camping available on Cumberland Island: backcountry camping, primitive camping, and RV camping.

  • Backcountry camping is allowed in designated areas on the island. Backcountry campers must bring their own gear and supplies, and they must pack out all of their trash. Backcountry camping is only allowed for a maximum of three nights.
  • Primitive camping is available at designated campgrounds on the island. Primitive campsites have fire rings and picnic tables, but they do not have running water or electricity. Primitive camping is allowed for a maximum of seven nights.
  • RV camping is available at designated campgrounds on the island. RV campsites have full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewer. RV camping is allowed for a maximum of 14 nights.

Camping regulations and fees

Camping on Cumberland Island is subject to a number of regulations. These regulations are designed to protect the island’s environment and wildlife.

  • Camping permits are required for all campers. Permits can be obtained online or at the Cumberland Island Visitor Center.
  • Camping is only allowed in designated areas. Backcountry campers must stay at least 200 feet from any road or trail. Primitive and RV campers must stay at designated campgrounds.
  • Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings. Campers must extinguish their campfires before leaving their campsite.
  • Pets are not allowed on Cumberland Island.

The camping fees for Cumberland Island are as follows:

  • Backcountry camping: $5 per person per night
  • Primitive camping: $10 per site per night
  • RV camping: $25 per site per night

Best Time to Camp on Cumberland Island

The best time to camp on Cumberland Island depends on your interests and preferences. The island has a mild climate, with average temperatures ranging from 50 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter to 80 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer.

  • Peak camping season is from May to October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and the island is busy with tourists.
  • Off-season camping is from November to April. During this time, the weather is cooler and more unpredictable, but the island is less crowded.

No matter when you decide to camp on Cumberland Island, you are sure to have a memorable experience.

Cumberland Island is a beautiful and unique place to camp. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and variety of camping options, Cumberland Island is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Can You Camp On Cumberland Island?

Cumberland Island is a national seashore located off the coast of Georgia. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including wild horses, dolphins, and sea turtles. The island is also a popular destination for camping. There are several campgrounds on Cumberland Island, each with its own unique features.

Campgrounds on Cumberland Island

There are three campgrounds on Cumberland Island:

  • Sea Camp Campground: This campground is located on the north end of the island. It is the largest campground on Cumberland Island, with over 200 campsites. Sea Camp Campground is also the most popular campground on the island, so it is important to make reservations well in advance.
  • Stafford Beach Campground: This campground is located on the south end of the island. It is smaller than Sea Camp Campground, with only about 50 campsites. Stafford Beach Campground is also less crowded than Sea Camp Campground, making it a good option for those who want a more secluded camping experience.
  • Little Cumberland Island Campground: This campground is located on Little Cumberland Island, a small island just off the coast of Cumberland Island. Little Cumberland Island Campground is only accessible by boat, and it is the most remote campground on the island.

Camping Reservations

Camping reservations for Cumberland Island can be made online through the National Park Service website. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.

Camping Fees

The camping fees for Cumberland Island are as follows:

  • Sea Camp Campground: $25 per night per campsite
  • Stafford Beach Campground: $20 per night per campsite
  • Little Cumberland Island Campground: $20 per night per campsite

Camping Amenities

The campgrounds on Cumberland Island offer a variety of amenities, including:

  • Flush toilets
  • Showers
  • Drinking water
  • Fire rings
  • Picnic tables
  • Tent pads
  • Dump stations

Things to Do While Camping on Cumberland Island

There are a variety of things to do while camping on Cumberland Island, including:

  • Hiking and biking trails: Cumberland Island has over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails. These trails offer stunning views of the island’s beaches, dunes, and forests.
  • Beaches and swimming spots: Cumberland Island has several beautiful beaches and swimming spots. The most popular beach is Sea Camp Beach, which is located near the Sea Camp Campground.
  • Fishing and boating: Cumberland Island is a great place to go fishing and boating. There are a variety of fish species to catch, including redfish, sea trout, and flounder. The island is also home to a variety of sea turtles, dolphins, and other marine life.
  • Wildlife viewing: Cumberland Island is home to a variety of wildlife, including wild horses, dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of birds. The best time to see wildlife is early in the morning or late in the evening.

Where to Stay When Not Camping on Cumberland Island

If you do not want to camp on Cumberland Island, there are a few other options available. You can stay in one of the hotels or inns in St. Marys, Georgia, which is located just across the Cumberland Sound from the island. You can also stay in one of the cabins or cottages on Cumberland Island, or you can rent a houseboat or yacht.

Cumberland Island is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a variety of camping opportunities. Whether you are looking for a secluded camping experience or a more social one, there is a campground on Cumberland Island that is perfect for you.

Can you camp on Cumberland Island?

Yes, you can camp on Cumberland Island. There are two campgrounds on the island: Sea Camp and Stafford Beach. Sea Camp is located on the north end of the island, and Stafford Beach is located on the south end. Both campgrounds offer a variety of amenities, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins.

What are the camping regulations on Cumberland Island?

The camping regulations on Cumberland Island are as follows:

  • All campers must have a permit. Permits can be obtained online or at the Cumberland Island Visitor Center.
  • The maximum number of people per campsite is six.
  • Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings.
  • Pets are not allowed on Cumberland Island.
  • All trash must be packed out.

What are the best times to camp on Cumberland Island?

The best times to camp on Cumberland Island are spring and fall. The weather is mild during these seasons, and the island is less crowded.

What are the activities available for campers on Cumberland Island?

There are a variety of activities available for campers on Cumberland Island, including hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and birdwatching. The island is also home to a number of historical sites, including the ruins of the Dungeness Plantation.

Where can I find more information about camping on Cumberland Island?

For more information about camping on Cumberland Island, please visit the following websites:

  • [Cumberland Island National Seashore](https://www.nps.gov/cuis/index.htm)
  • [Cumberland Island Conservancy](https://www.cumberlandisland.org/)

    Cumberland Island is a beautiful and unique place to visit, and camping is a great way to experience all that it has to offer. There are a variety of different camping options available, so you can find the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax or a place to be close to the action, Cumberland Island has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.