Cumberland Island Walking Tour: Ruins & Wild Horses in St. Marys
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for individuals with average fitness who can walk several miles on sandy and uneven terrain at a relaxed pace.
Overview
Discover haunting ruins and wild horses on a private walking tour of Cumberland Island near St. Marys, Georgia. Experience history and nature on this unforgettable barrier island adventure.
Cumberland Island Walking Tour: Haunting Ruins and Wild Horses
Cumberland Island's only regularly-offered tour covering the Dungeness Historic Area!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating tour of Cumberland Island, exploring the haunting ruins of the Carnegies' mansion and the expansive servants' quarters. Discover the gravesite of Revolutionary War general Light-Horse Harry Lee while surrounded by the island's vibrant marshland. This unique experience combines history, nature, and adventure in a picturesque setting.
Cost
$40 per person $25 per child (ages 5-12)
Starting Location:
Dungeness Dock, the first ferry stop on Cumberland Island
Time:
12:30 to 2:30 p.m., every day the ferry runs (The ferry operates 7 days a week every month except December through February. Find more details at the ferry link below.)
Distance:
About 1 mile walked with many chances to sit in the shade
About
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See the haunting ruins of the Carnegies' Gilded-Aged mansion
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Enter the vast servants' quarters where over one hundred laborers catered to the Carnegies.
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Pause at the scenic gravesite of Revolutionary War general Light-Horse Harry Lee and learn why he was buried here far from his home and family.
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Enjoy the island’s neon-green marsh and discover the wide range of creatures it shelters
Important Notes:
The tour fee does NOT include the ferry ticket or entrance to Cumberland Island National Seashore.
To book the ferry, click here:
https://www.cumberlandislandferry.com/st-marys-cumberland-island-ferry/
For park entrance fee information, click here:
https://www.nps.gov/cuis/planyourvisit/fees.htm
Tour Information
- Please arrive at the Dungeness Dock promptly at 12:30 at the arrival of the ferry.
- The tour ends at 2:30, giving you time to return on the 2:45 ferry, if it is running.
- We finish near the Dungeness ruins, allowing you to continue exploring on your own.
What to Bring
- Water
- Food
- Sunscreen
- Good walking/hiking shoes
- Rain gear
- Hat
- Sunglasses
There are two restrooms and water fountains in the Dungeness Area.
Be aware there is NOTHING to purchase once you arrive on the island.
All of your trash is pack in, pack out.
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear
The terrain includes sandy trails and uneven paths near ruins, so supportive shoes will keep you comfortable throughout the tour.
Bring insect repellent
Mosquitoes and ticks can be active, especially near marshy areas—protect yourself with effective bug spray.
Carry water and snacks
There are no shops onsite, so bring hydration and light snacks to stay energized and comfortable.
Respect the wildlife and ruins
Maintain distance from the wild horses and do not climb or disturb historical structures for preservation and safety.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Feral wild horses
- Marsh rabbits
History
The island served as a Carnegie family retreat in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and Light-Horse Harry Lee, father of Robert E. Lee, is buried here.
Conservation
Cumberland Island is a protected national seashore, with ongoing efforts to preserve its natural habitats and historical sites by limiting visitor impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Savannah, Georgia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provides support for walking on sandy, uneven trails and historic sites.
Insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and ticks, especially in marshy areas.
spring specific
Sun hat and sunscreen
Shields from strong sun exposure during open trail sections.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the tour; no water sources available on-site.