Stafford Beach on Cumberland Island

Once you have reached the island by ferry from St. Mary's, GA, you will receive an orientation about your campsite and the island (You can rent bicycles at the main office on the island, too). Stafford Beach is 3.5 miles from the ferry landing so you will have plenty of time to explore the island once you've set up camp. To reach the campground, hike the Parallel Trail until you reach Pratts Trail on your right. Take Pratts trail for about a mile and you will reach Stafford Beach campground. There are approximately 7-8 campsites complete with great trees for hammocking and a fire pit (This is one of two campgrounds on the island where you can have a fire...the other is Sea Camp). Here's an insider tip: I think the best spot is the end campsite closest to the beach because horses came in and out of that campsite both days we were there. There are bathrooms and cold showers available here but no potable water. Make sure to bring a water filter or enough potable water to get you through your stay. When you get ready to hike back to the ferry take the beach route (it's actually 0.5 miles shorter) all the way down to Sea Camp and look for the black and white poles in the dunes to help you get back to the ferry. Do it at sunrise if possible! It was an incredible experience. Take time to explore the island by visiting Plum Orchard mansion, hiking some of the other trails close by, or just walking the beach!