If you’ve ever taken I-95 to Florida and back, you’ve probably stopped at the Georgia welcome center just over the border in Kingsland, if only to stretch your legs and use the facilities. But I would bet you haven’t ventured much further afield to explore the local flora and fauna—and I’m here to tell you that’s a mistake!
I get it, it’s been a long drive…you’re tired and just want to get where you’re going. I’ve been there. But recently I had the opportunity to go exploring in Kingsland and I’m about to share why I think Kingsland is worth making your final destination.
Reason #1: Wild Horses
Kingsland is the gateway to one of coastal Georgia’s most treasured places, Cumberland Island. Very few places like it exist anymore. Only accessible by boat, Cumberland Island is a well-preserved jewel that is mostly made up of pristine maritime forests, undeveloped beaches and wide marshes. The barely disturbed natural habitat makes it a haven for wildlife—turkeys, alligators, deer, an impressive variety of coastal birds, and, my personal favorite, wild horses, all call Cumberland home.
Reason #2: Swamp Tours
It’s time to bring out your inner Shrek and embrace the #swamplife because on the other side of Kingsland from Cumberland is the entrance to the renowned Okefenokee Swamp! (Technically, it’s a 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. Get up close and personal (if you dare) with alligators, blue herons, bald eagles, gopher tortoises, and the endangered eastern indigo snakes on a guided swamp tour!
Reason #3: Deep Sea Diving
A hop and a skip from Kingsland is the town of St. Mary’s, home to not only incredible seafood but also Diver’s Den Georgia, a premier dive center serving Kingsland and the surrounding area. The waters of coastal Georgia are home to many shipwrecks and reefs, and the guides at Diver’s Den know where to find all of the interesting ones! Whether you’re a beginner like me or a tried-and-true pro, jump in with both flippers to see what’s below the sea!
Reason #4: War Canoes (and Other Paddle Adventures)
I don’t know about you, but the second I heard “war canoe,” I was in. Turns out they’re just a larger, multi-person canoe, but it was still an epic day out on the water with our guides from Adventures Up the Creek. Kingsland and its surrounding area is home to three freshwater rivers and easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway, so there are endless opportunities for paddling and other boating adventures. Whether you want to rent a watercraft or take a guided excursion, there are multiple companies to choose from.
Reason #5: Fishing Galore
Naturally, with all the wetlands and waterways, such as Crooked River, St. Marys River and the Satilla River, not to mention ocean access, Kingsland is a fisherman’s (fisherlady’s?) paradise. You can look for speckled trout, catfish, flounder, tarpon, sturgeon and so much more. First, though, make sure to acquire a Georgia fishing license. If you’re an avid fisherperson you probably already know this and have come prepared with one from online at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com. If you’re like me though and thought you could just cast a line at the local fishing hole (rookie mistake, I know), don’t despair. They’ve got you covered at the local Walmart 836 Supercenter! Fishing is a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery in and around Kingsland, and whether you are interested in inshore or offshore fishing, experienced local charter fishing captains know all the spots for you to reel in the big one.
Have my 5 reasons convinced you to plan a trip to Kingsland this summer? If not, I’ve got a few more up my sleeve: the Crawfish Festival, the Georgia Coastal Railway, the Woodbine Opry…there’s a lot to see and do for every type of traveler, but honestly, Kingsland is where nature reigns.
