Cumberland Island Backpacking

Trip Date: Friday, Sept. 4–Monday, Sept. 7, 2026 

Trip Location: Cumberland Island, St. Mary’s, Georgia

Trip Cost: Free! 

Registration Opens: Friday, Aug. 21, at 12 p.m.

Registration Closes: Tuesday, Sept. 1, at 12 p.m.

Register through the UCF Recreation and Wellness Center (RWC) app or through the UCF RWC Membership Portal. All trips are now first-come, first-served and open two weeks before the first day of the trip. If the trip is full, you can join the waitlist through the membership portal. 

Pre-Trip Meeting: Tuesday, Sept. 1, at 6 p.m.

Trip Description: Georgia’s largest and southernmost barrier island, Cumberland Island, is full of history and mystery. Join us as we explore the island with our homes on our backs on this moderate-level backpacking trip. We'll hike multiple miles each day and plan to camp at primitive campgrounds. This trip is best for someone with a seriously adventurous spirit who can hike while carrying 40-50 pounds. The trip is funded by the National Park Trust, a partner of Outdoor Adventure (OA), which works to get people exploring and celebrating public lands while also lowering the barrier to entry.

What’s Included: All of our adventures include all necessary gear for the activity (including camping gear, backpacks, backpacking equipment, etc.), transportation to/from the activity, and professional guidance by OA Trip Leaders. All staff are certified in First Aid/CPR/AED, and most are certified Wilderness First Responders. Meals are also provided on the trip, with all menus designed to accommodate dietary restrictions, preferences and allergies. Occasionally, groups may eat at restaurants while traveling; these meals are not included in the trip cost. Trip Leaders will inform participants of any meals not included in the trip price. 

What’s Not Included: Participants should wear athletic clothing, appropriate footwear and bring personal water and snacks. A full packing list will be provided at the Pre-Trip Meeting. 

Tentative Itinerary (time and activities are subject to change): 

Friday, Sept. 4

• 10 a.m. – Arrive at Outdoor Adventure Center 

• Travel to St. Mary's, Georgia 

• Camp at Crooked River State Park 

Saturday, Sept. 5

• 9 a.m. - Ferry to Cumberland Island 

• Hike to Yankee Paradise Campsite 

Sunday, Sept. 6

• Hike to Plum Orchard Mansion 

• Camp at Stafford Beach Campsite 

Monday, Sept. 7

• Travel back to UCF 

• Arrive at UCF by 9 p.m.

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