The world of Cumberland Island National Seashore took me by surprise. I clinged to the romantic stories told by everyone I knew of galloping horses moving along the beach as their manes waved with the wind’s rhythm, something out of a romance novel.  In fact, I'm not sure what I expected. Whatever it was, I was not disappointed.
For along the southern coast of Georgia is a story of people that you've only heard about in fairy tales. A life of opulence. an existence that included slavery and love affairs, of discovery and survival. of many whose lives ended in their prime, many before they got to see their dreams built or fulfilled.
It's a history lesson, one that children and adults should see first hand.

When planning your trip, visit the National Park Service website and only rely upon their postings for the most accurate information. Only 300 people are allowed on the island at a time and it is only accessible by boat or ferry; campers can only stay for a maximum of seven nights.
Day trips are possible if there is availability. Call the park visitor's center and inquire about activity on the island. A standard entrance pass is $15; this is a seven day pass; you can opt for a $45 annual pass that covers four adults. Choose one of these days for entrance fee-free pass. Keep in mind that the Cumberland Island National Seashore is cashless regarding all fees and passes. Ferry (45 minutes) fees range from $40 for adults to free for children, five and younger. Schedule your ferry trip here. Arrive at the mainland center with your ferry pass (arrive one-hour ahead of scheduled time) and passes to the island will be issued.

The most popular and busiest time of year is from early March until early June. These dates ensure the best weather with fewest bugs. All travel on the island is by foot or bike.

The road that takes visitors from the south end of the island to the north is Grand Avenue. Once filled with carriages, the vehicles of residents and rangers are the only ones allowed. Walking [and biking to some parts] is the only mode of transportation. You see the entire island, it's a 17 mile walk, one way. Ferry’s dock at two locations: Dungeness and sea camp. There are camp sites at Sea Camp [water, toilets, cold showers], Stafford Beach [flush toilets; 3.5 miles from sea camp]; backcountry sites [water but must be treated; no campfires]- Hickory Hill [5.5 miles], Yankee Paradise [7.5 miles], Brick Hill Bluff [10.6 miles]. waste must be buried. Trash must be packed out. The Dungeness ruins are located on the south end. Plum Orchard is 8 miles north. The first African American church [17 miles] is on the northern end of the island.