How to Pay Cumberland Island Fees
Cumberland Island is a stunning place with an incredible diversity of things to do and stunning nature to experience, but it does require some planning before you arrive.
In this article, learn what fees to pay and when to pay them to ensure that your visit is stress-free!
1. Ferry Reservation
You must first ensure you can visit the island on your preferred date! The only way to arrive to the island is by ferry. While it is not required to book the ferry ahead of time, it is highly recommended, as especially during high season in the fall and spring the ferry may reach capacity.
Prices
$20 one-way per adult
$15 one-way per child (ages 15 and under)
$19 one-way per senior (ages 62 and older)
Free (children ages 5 and under)
Find more information on the ferry schedule and logistics here.
2. National Park Fee
Because Cumberland Island is a national seashore, you must pay a fee before arriving on the island.
While you may pre-pay this fee, it is not necessary. You may instead pay for it when checking in for the ferry.
You have a few different options when it comes to park passes:
a) 7-Day Entrance Fee
Price: $15 per adult
Free for children 15 and younger
You may purchase this pass at the Cumberland Island Visitor Center in St. Marys, Georgia.
Credit/debit only
b) Cumberland Island Annual Pass
Price: $45
This pass covers the purchaser and 3 adults aged 16 and over.
You may purchase this pass at the Cumberland Island Visitor Center in St. Marys, Georgia.
Credit/debit only
c) America the Beautiful Interagency Pass
This annual pass is valid at more than 2,000 federal recreation sites across the U.S. and much more.
Price: $80
This pass covers the purchaser and 3 adults aged 16 and over.
You may purchase this pass at the Cumberland Island Visitor Center in St. Marys, Georgia, or online here.
In addition to this adult annual pass, there are also senior and military passes. Determine which pass is right for you here.
3. Book Tours
While it is delightful to wander or hike Cumberland Island on your own, there are also options that allow you to delve more deeply into its fascinating history.
a) Ranger-Led “Footsteps” Tour
Offered when staff is available, free ranger-led tours begin at the Dungeness Dock at the arrival of the ferry at 10:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. This tour lasts about one hour and covers around one mile.
Call the Cumberland Island Visitor Center at 912 882-4336 to find out if tours are offered the day you plan to visit.
Price: Free
b) Cumberland Island Walking Tour: Haunting Ruins and Wild Horses
This walking tour is Cumberland Island’s only regularly-offered tour covering the Dungeness Historic Area. On this tour, explore the evocative Carnegie mansion ruins, a historic marsh-front cemetery, Carnegie-era servants’ buildings, and more as you stroll down palmetto-lined trails past wild horses and expansive marshes.
Learn more and book ahead here.
Price: $40 per adult, $25 per child
Group and private rates available.
c) Lands and Legacies Van Tour
This van tour is for those who do not want to walk or who wish to see all 18 miles of the island. Visit Plum Orchard, the First African Baptist Church where John Kennedy, Jr., was married, and more. A visit to the Dungeness Historic District is not included.
Price: $65 per person
4. Book your Campsite
If you wish to stay overnight on Cumberland Island and immerse yourself in its nature and beauty, camping is a rewarding option.
There are several campsites on the island, although the closest and most convenient to the dock is Sea Camp.
For general inquiries, call Cumberland Island National Seashore at 912-882-4336.
To make reservations or to inquire about availability, contact Recreation.gov.
Click here for more information on camping on Cumberland Island.
Questions? Contact us here!
Check out our Cumberland Island and St. Marys tours such as the Cumberland Island Walking Tour: Haunting Ruins and Wild Horses or the St. Marys Murder, Mayhem, and Martinis Walking Tour!
We also offer Cumberland Island private tours and field trips!
Horses at Dungeness grounds