Cumberland Island National Seashore

Golden Isles of Georgia Road Trip

Cumberland Island National Seashore - Golden Isles of Georgia Road Trip

Cumberland Island National Seashore, off the coast of Georgia, is a place where wild beauty and rich history meet. Accessible only by ferry, this barrier island offers untouched beaches, maritime forests draped in Spanish moss, and roaming wild horses that make every visit feel magical. Visitors can explore the ruins of the historic Dungeness Mansion, bike shaded trails beneath ancient oaks, and wander miles of quiet shoreline where nature reigns supreme. Peaceful, remote, and timeless—Cumberland Island is one of the East Coast’s best-kept secrets.

Cumberland Island is one of those rare places that feels truly wild and untouched — a mix of natural beauty, history, and quiet adventure. Here are the must-see and must-do experiences:

1. Explore the Dungeness Ruins
Walk through the hauntingly beautiful remains of the Carnegie family’s Gilded Age mansion, surrounded by wild horses and live oaks draped in Spanish moss.

2. Visit Plum Orchard Mansion
Take a guided tour of this preserved 22,000-square-foot Carnegie estate for a glimpse into the island’s opulent past.

3. Walk the Beach
Stroll or bike along miles of pristine, undeveloped shoreline — you’ll often have it almost entirely to yourself. Keep an eye out for dolphins, shorebirds, and horses wandering the dunes.

4. Bike or Hike the Island Trails
Bring or rent a bike to explore trails that wind through maritime forests, salt marshes, and along the Intracoastal Waterway. Popular routes include the Main Road and trails near Sea Camp and Dungeness.

5. Spot the Wild Horses
Cumberland’s famous feral horses roam freely — a highlight for any visitor. Observe them from a respectful distance as they graze or wander near the ruins and beaches.

6. Visit the First African Baptist Church
Located in the Settlement, this small historic church is where John F. Kennedy Jr. famously married Carolyn Bessette in 1996.

7. Camp Under the Stars
Stay overnight at one of the island’s campgrounds for an unforgettable experience surrounded by nature’s sounds and an unpolluted night sky.

8. Explore the Island’s North End
If you’re up for a longer adventure, take the Lands and Legacies Tour and head toward Stafford Beach or the wild northern end near Brickhill Bluff — ideal for solitude and wildlife spotting.

9. Join a Ranger Program
The National Park Service offers guided walks and talks that share the island’s fascinating history, ecology, and conservation story.

10. Take in the Ferry Ride
Even the journey to Cumberland is part of the adventure — the ferry from St. Marys offers beautiful coastal views and a preview of the serenity to come.

Know Before You Go:

  • Reservations are required for the ferry and camping — book early!

  • There are no stores or restaurants on the island, so bring all food, water, and supplies.

  • Wear comfortable shoes and pack bug spray — the trails and marshes can get buggy, especially in summer.

  • Consider staying overnight to truly experience the island’s peaceful rhythm.