From the natural beauty and rich history of Cumberland Island to the abundant outdoor adventure at Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and excursions on the Georgia Coastal Railway, Kingsland offers many unique adventures for the whole family to enjoy
KINGSLAND AND CAMDEN COUNTY, GEORGIA—OCTOBER 2022—Nestled on the southeast coast of Georgia, just three miles from the Georgia/Florida border and 25 miles north of Jacksonville, Florida, Kingsland, Georgia, is a charming small coastal town oozing with natural beauty, Southern hospitality and unique adventures suitable for the whole family. Explore the serene beauty of Cumberland Island National Seashore, get up close and personal with wildlife at Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy a ride aboard the Georgia Coastal Railway. Whether exploring the Colonial Coast Birding Trail to observe shorebirds in their natural habitat or kicking up your heels at the Woodbine Opry, there’s never a shortage of adventure. Here are ten unforgettable Kingsland experiences you don’t want to miss.
All aboard the Georgia Coastal Railway
One of Kingsland’s most unique experiences can be found aboard the Georgia Coastal Railway. Hop on one of America’s oldest privately owned shortline railroads and experience everything from scenic rides to themed excursions. This family friendly adventure entertains passengers of all ages with various seasonally themed rides through neighborhoods, Georgia marshlands, commercial districts and a working rail yard. From the Murder Mystery Express, The Great Gatsby Express and The Wine Tasting Special to the Pizza Express, The Wild West Train and the ever-popular Christmas Train, there’s sure to be an adventure to pique your interest. For a full list of themed rides, click here. All excursions depart from the Kingsland Station located on South Lee Street, just two miles west of I-95. Advance reservations strongly encouraged. Georgia Coastal Railway, 440 South Lee Street, Kingsland, Georgia 31548; 904-370-3744
Experience the natural beauty of Cumberland Island
Kingsland is the gateway to one of coastal Georgia’s most treasured places, Cumberland Island. Very few places like Cumberland Island exist anymore, making it one of the most unique places along the Georgia coast. Mostly made up of pristine maritime forests, undeveloped beaches and wide marshes, Georgia’s largest and southernmost barrier island offers roads and trails perfect for reconnecting with nature. Only accessible by a ferry boat, Cumberland Island is a well-preserved jewel along the Georgia coast that allows all who visit the opportunity to go “off the grid” and engage with nature without distraction.
Make your way to Cumberland Island National Seashore by ferry, then wander along the interior of the island winding your way through a plethora of majestic live oaks and palmetto trees while trying to spot the island’s wildlife—wild horses, turkeys, alligators, deer and an impressive variety of coastal birds all call Cumberland home. There’s also no shortage of history on this rugged, unspoiled island. Visitors to the island will discover the history of Plum Orchard Mansion, the ruins of the once elaborate Carnegie Estate “Dungeness,” Cumberland Wharf and the Settlement of the First African Baptist Church. Want to take in more of the island? Click here for more information on ferry reservations, bike rentals and tours.
Take a walk on the wild side at Okefenokee Swamp
Get up close and personal with wildlife at Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. Designated as one of Georgia’s seven natural wonders, this wilderness is made up of over 400,000 acres of canals, moss-draped cypress trees and lily pads all of which provide a natural sanctuary for hundreds of species of birds and wildlife. As one of the world’s largest intact freshwater ecosystems, these habitats provide a safe haven for threatened and endangered species.
Choose your own adventure! There are so many ways to experience the swamp. Visitors to the refuge can explore the area in a number of different ways—on foot, on bike or on the water, through a guided tour or solo. Embark on a guided tour and prepare for a real treat. Most guides have family roots in Okefenokee, were born and raised there and many have been leading swamp tours for 30 years or more. Looking to explore solo? Hop in a kayak, canoe or motor boat and wind your way through the reflective waters of the swamp while being completely surrounded by the natural beauty of this unspoiled habitat. No matter how you choose to explore, there’s no doubt you’ll leave with a better understanding and appreciation for this special place. If you go, don’t miss the interactive welcome center, observation tower, nine-mile loop with boardwalk and restored swamp homestead. Boat rentals and bike rentals are offered inside the refuge. For more information on tours, rentals and excursions, click here.
Get out on the water
Kingsland is full of opportunities to get out on the water but perhaps one of the most beautiful areas to explore is Crooked River State Park. This beautiful state park provides the perfect spot for enjoying the Intracoastal Waterway, maritime forests, scenic marsh views and abundant coastal wildlife. Other amenities include a paved ramp for launching kayaks and boats, a large floating dock, fish-cleaning table, running water and a paved parking lot. Some of the best freshwater fishing can be found on nearby Satilla River. Satilla River Waterfront Park offers a boat ramp access, picnic tables, running water and ample parking. Crooked River State Park, 6222 Charlie Smith Senior Highway, St. Marys, Georgia, 31558; 912-882-5256; Satilla River Waterfront Park, 103 East First Street, Woodbine, Georgia, 31569
Birding at its best
As part of the Colonial Coast Birding Trail, Kingsland and the surrounding area is home to many species of birds, over 300 of which have been spotted among the 18 sites along the birding trail. Popular birding spots include Crooked River State Park, boasting 500 acres of natural bird habitats, Cumberland Island National Seashore, featuring extensive salt marshes and undeveloped beaches ideal for spotting Painted Buntings, Peregrine Falcons and shorebirds. Nearby Woodbine is home to over six miles of the Georgia Coast Rail Trail which provides a natural bird habitat offering shelter, protection, water, food and nesting sites for many bird species.
Submarine Museum
Located in nearby St. Marys, the St. Marys Submarine Museum is the largest museum of its kind in the South and the fifth largest in the country. Featuring nearly 5,000 square feet of exhibits and displays on two floors, visitors will experience history come alive with a wide variety of images, paintings, artifacts, models and rare historical documents, many of which have not been made available to the public until now. Largely focusing on the “silent service,” the St. Marys Submarine Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history and legacy of the submarine force and those who have served and are currently serving our nation. St. Marys Submarine Museum, 102 St. Marys Street West, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-2782
Woodbine Opry
Featuring two nights of live performances, there’s no doubt the good times will roll at the Woodbine Opry. Be entertained Friday nights with bluegrass and gospel performances then prepare to kick up your heels Saturday nights with classic country and good ‘ole rock and roll. Located in the renovated “Old School” Woodbine Community Center, performances range from open mic jam sessions to shows by some of South Georgia’s best musicians. This family friendly outing is sure to be enjoyed by all. Admission is free, dinner available for purchase. More information about Friday night and Saturday night performances, show times and dinner menus is available online. Woodbine Opry, 305 Camden Avenue, Woodbine, Georgia 31569; 912-576-3027
Hit the links
Kingsland boasts 700+ holes of golf within one hour and the area’s mild temperatures make golf a year-round activity, making any time a great time to hit the links. Be surrounded by the area’s natural beauty and take in magnificent marsh views as you play a round at Laurel Island Links. Featuring smooth greens and fairways lined with tall Georgia pines, this stunning course designed by Davis Love III is sure to leave an impression on players. Open to the public; tee times can be booked online. Other noteworthy courses nearby include Trident Lakes Golf Club, located on Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base, and Sanctuary Cove Golf Club, a Love Golf Design/Fred Couples Signature course featuring a 7,003 yard layout offering a different residential golf experience. Laurel Island Links, 233 Marsh Harbour Parkway, Kingsland, Georgia 31548; 912-729-7277; Trident Lakes Golf Club 1010 USS Proteus Boulevard, Naval Submarine Base, Kings Bay, Georgia 31547; 912-573-8475; Sanctuary Cove Golf Club, 2050 Sanctuary Wynd, Waverly, Georgia 31565; 912-466-0080
Let loose and release
Burn off some steam at Unleashed Camden, Kingsland’s premier entertainment center featuring axe throwing, Rage “Smash” Room and a Paint “Splatter” Room. The first of its kind in the area, Unleashed Camden gives patrons the opportunity to chop, smash and splatter in a fun environment. Suit up and get ready to smash vases, chairs, bottles, computers and more to unleash that pent up energy in the Smash Room. Unleash your inner artist in the Splatter Room and sling paint on the walls, ceiling and floor. Perfect for a date night, girls’ night or corporate outing, this experience is one you won’t soon forget. Group rates and discounts available. Unleashed Camden, 258 Haddock Road, Kingsland, Georgia 31558; 912-510-0136
Neutral Zone Studios
Calling all “Star Trek” fans! Previously home to the web series “Star Trek Continues,” Neutral Zone Studios houses meticulously constructed Star Trek sets under the guidance of the series’ Executive Producer, Vic Mignogna. This not-for-profit, 9,600-square-foot facility is a full-service turn-key film studio offering a full-scale suite of Constitution class starship sets including the bridge, transporter room, engineering and more. Now open to the public, “Star Trek” fans delight in Fan Appreciation Weekends giving them the opportunity to get up close and personal with the infamous sets. For more information on “Star Trek” Fan Appreciation Weekends, click here.
Where to stay in Kingsland
With easy access on and off I-95, Kingsland offers many lodging options from big brand hotels to RV parks. For a complete list of Kingsland lodging options, visit www.VisitKingsland.com/placestostay.htm.