Details
National Park ServiceLast Updated: November 26, 2025
Table Of Contents
Campground Overview
Introduction
Stafford Beach Campground requires a three and a half mile hike from Sea Camp. All sites are walk-to, tent sites and campers are responsible for transporting all gear. Carts of any kind or wheeled coolers cannot be used to haul gear. The site has flush toilets, cold showers, and water spigots with potable water. The sites include fire rings with grills. Food storage lockers (bear boxes) are available. Sites are $12 a night, good for up to 6 people.
Campsite Details
Operating Hours
Camping is most popular during the Spring and Fall, but the campground stays open all year. It is common for the campground to fill up throughout the year on Fridays and Saturdays. Make reservations as far in advance as possible.
Weather
Weather conditions can change quickly. Keep an eye to the sky. It is hot and humid during the summer months. Bring water bottles and food. There are no services on the island beyond the water fountains and bathrooms. Wear a hat, light clothing and sunscreen. There is some tree cover but lots of sun to go with it. In winter, keep yourself hydrated and dress in layers.
Amenities
Toilets
Showers
Potable Water
Food Storage Lockers
Directions
Stafford Beach Campground is located on Cumberland Island, and is only accessible by boat. All campers must deboard the ferry at the Sea Camp dock. If arriving by private boat the Sea Camp dock will be the closest to the campsite. The campground is located 3.5 miles North from the Sea Camp dock. The Parallel trail or main road will lead most of the way to the campground. For directions to the mainland Visitor Center and ferry check-in, visit the Directions page on the park website.
Rates & Fees
Stafford Beach Camping Fee
Sites are $12 a night, good for up to 6 people.
Rules & Regulations
Fire/Stove Policy
Fires are permitted in designated fire rings only. No beach fires. Dead and downed wood can be collected. Camp stoves are permitted. Do not leave fires unattended. Put them completely out before leaving your site.Regulations Overview
Stay Limit: 7 consecutive nights. A person cannot hold more than one permit for the same date. That permit holder must occupy the site. Maximum campers and equipment: The individual site maximum is six persons. Children two years of age and under do not count toward the maximum. Gear Transport: Campers are responsible for transporting gear from the dock to the campgrounds. Check out time: 10:00 a.m. Quiet hours: 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Food and Trash Storage: Store or hang all food and trash. Raccoons are common. Follow Leave No Trace principles Drinking Water: Available at Plum Orchard, Stafford Beach, and all areas south of Sea Camp. Treat water at all other areas of the island. No Pets: Only service animals are permitted in campgrounds. No Lifeguards. Swim at your own risk. All animals on the island - including horses - are wild! Do not approach within 50 feet of horses; they may bite or kick.Accessibility
Cell Phone Information
Cell phone reception can be spotty on the island. Campers may need to leave the site to get a good connection. Dial 9-1-1 in cases of emergency.
RV Allowed
No
RV Maximum Length
0
Additional Information
Water is potable. Treatment of water is not necessary. Small food storage lockers are available in each site.
Trailer Maximum Length
0
Trailer Allowed
No
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