Crooked River State Park
Georgia

Crooked River State Park

Available Activities
  • Camping
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Kayaking
  • Paddling
  • Cabins
Verified by America’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated February 2026

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 TypeCountViews
🏠 River View1-5Direct river
🌾 Marsh View6-11Marsh (river in background)
🐕 Pet-Friendly#1, 4, 10, 11Dogs welcome!
Cottage BookingDetails
🏠 Total11 fully equipped
📅 ReservationsUp to 13 months ahead

Camping

CampingDetails
Campsites62 (RV and tent)
🌳 SettingSpanish moss-draped oaks
📅 OpenYear-round

Paddling

PaddlingDetails
🛶 Cherry Point Trail4-mile loop (~2 hours)
🚣 Cumberland IslandLaunch point available
⚠️ TidesPlan with tidal charts! Strong currents.
🚤 Boat RampAvailable (private boats OK)
🎣 RentalsGuided kayak trips (no park rentals)

Cumberland Island Access

Cumberland IslandDetails
🐴 Famous ForWild horses!
⛴️ FerryFrom St. Marys (15 min from park)
🏛️ StatusNational Seashore

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

State Parks Team
Written by

State Parks Team

Editorial Team

The State Parks Team is a group of outdoor enthusiasts, researchers, and travel writers dedicated to showcasing America's state parks. Drawing on collective experience visiting parks in all 50 states, the team creates detailed guides, curated park lists, and practical tips to help visitors make the most of their state park adventures. Our mission: making America's state parks accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Last updated: February 20, 2026

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