Crooked River State Park is your gateway to Cumberland Island and Georgia’s coastal wilderness! Located on the Crooked River near the Florida border, this park features 11 cottages with river and marsh views, 62 campsites beneath Spanish moss-draped oaks, a 4-mile kayak trail, and easy access to the wild horses of Cumberland Island. Nature trails wind through maritime forests and salt marshes—pure coastal Georgia magic.
Cottages
| Cottage Type | Count | Views |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 River View | 1-5 | Direct river |
| 🌾 Marsh View | 6-11 | Marsh (river in background) |
| 🐕 Pet-Friendly | #1, 4, 10, 11 | Dogs welcome! |
| Cottage Booking | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏠 Total | 11 fully equipped |
| 📅 Reservations | Up to 13 months ahead |
Camping
| Camping | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Campsites | 62 (RV and tent) |
| 🌳 Setting | Spanish moss-draped oaks |
| 📅 Open | Year-round |
Paddling
| Paddling | Details |
|---|---|
| 🛶 Cherry Point Trail | 4-mile loop (~2 hours) |
| 🚣 Cumberland Island | Launch point available |
| ⚠️ Tides | Plan with tidal charts! Strong currents. |
| 🚤 Boat Ramp | Available (private boats OK) |
| 🎣 Rentals | Guided kayak trips (no park rentals) |
Cumberland Island Access
| Cumberland Island | Details |
|---|---|
| 🐴 Famous For | Wild horses! |
| ⛴️ Ferry | From St. Marys (15 min from park) |
| 🏛️ Status | National Seashore |
Frequently Asked Questions
Wildlife & Nature
Crooked River SP — 500 acres on the Crooked River near St. Marys. The park’s salt marsh, maritime forest, and tidal river support alligators, manatees (seasonal), and painted buntings. Loggerhead sea turtles nest on nearby beaches. Fiddler crabs cover the mudflats at low tide.
Nearby Attractions
St. Marys — adjacent — the ferry departure point for Cumberland Island NS. Cumberland Island — accessible by ferry — has wild horses and pristine beaches. Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base — adjacent. Jekyll Island — 30 miles north.
How do I see the wild horses?
The wild horses are on Cumberland Island National Seashore, not at Crooked River State Park. Take the ferry from St. Marys (15 minutes from the park) to see them. Alternatively, experienced paddlers can kayak to Cumberland Island from the park—but plan carefully using tidal charts due to strong currents!
Which cottages allow dogs?
Four cottages are pet-friendly: #1, #4, #10, and #11. Cottages 1-5 have direct river views, while 6-11 overlook the marsh with the river in the background.
What’s the best kayak trip?
The Cherry Point Kayaking Trail is a 4-mile loop that takes approximately 2 hours. The park serves as a launch point for paddling to Cumberland Island as well. Important: Plan your trip carefully according to tidal charts—strong currents are present, especially during ebb tides.
Can I rent a kayak at the park?
The park itself does not offer kayak rentals, but boat rentals are available. Guided kayak trips are offered through private operators. Bring your own kayak or arrange rentals beforehand.
Is the park open year-round?
Yes! Crooked River State Park is open year-round. In January 2026, it even served as a warming center during cold weather. Great for escaping winter up north!
🐴 Gateway to Cumberland Island
Stay in marsh-view cottages, paddle the Cherry Point Trail, and visit the wild horses of Cumberland Island. Visit the official Crooked River State Park website for reservations.
Explore More Georgia State Parks
Crooked River State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Georgia. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Georgia guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Jekyll Island State Park is within about an hour’s drive, and Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation State Historic Site is within about an hour’s drive.
Park Location
Plan your gear for Crooked River State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
