The Indians were superseded by the Spanish in 1566 and by the English, under the direction of James Oglethorpe, in 1736. The island was last owned by the Carnegies, who donated the island to the National Park Foundation in 1971. Campsites are not assigned until you reach the island. There are a dozen trails on the island, from Southpoint Trail at the southern end of the island to Terrapin Point Trail in the north. Miles of trail lead you past all the island's habitats beaches, dunes, interdune meadows, ponds, maritime forests, and salt marshes.
Many birds make their home here as well.
From Interstate 16, head south on Interstate 95. At Exit 2, head east on GA 40 for sixteen miles. GA 40 ends in St. Marys. They are not absolutely necessary if you plan to make a day trip but are mandatory if you plant to camp. If you don't make reservations, you will be put on standby.