Details
National Park ServiceLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Table Of Contents
Campground Overview
Introduction
Yankee Paradise is one of three campgrounds in Cumberland Island’s designated wilderness on the northern part of the island. The campsite is located 7.5 miles north of the Sea Camp dock. Wilderness sites have no amenities. Fires are prohibited, but camp stoves can be used for cooking. Campers should be prepared to hang all food and trash. Water is available from a nearby well and must be treated. Permits are $9 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
Cell Phone Reception
Potable Water
Directions
Yankee Paradise Wilderness Campsite 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 Plum Orchard dock will be the closest to the campsite. The campground is located 7.5 miles North from the Sea Camp dock. The Parallel and Yankee Paradise trails lead to the campground. For directions to the mainland Visitor Center and ferry check-in, visit the Directions page on the park website.
Rates & Fees
Wilderness Camping Fee
Permits are $9 a night, good for up to 6 people.
Rules & Regulations
Fire/Stove Policy
Fires are not permitted in the wilderness area. No beach fires. Camp stoves are permitted.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.No carts or wheeled coolers are allowed. 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 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
Wheelchair Access
The campsite is relatively open, though there are no paved surfaces and wheelchairs will have limited mobility. Access to the site is along an undeveloped wilderness trail that is narrow in some portions. There may be narrow foot bridges that are not accessible to wheelchairs.
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 Information
RVs and trailers are not allowed in these sites.
RV Maximum Length
0
Additional Information
All water at the site must be treated before consuming. Come prepared to hang all food and trash to keep it safe from wildlife. Food storage canisters also work well.
Trailer Maximum Length
0
ADA Information
This campsite is within a designated wilderness. There are no improvements to the site and the only access is via unpaved wilderness trails. These sites may not be accessible to someone in a wheelchair.
Trailer Allowed
No
Access Roads
No Roads
Classifications
Designated Primitive Campsites
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!