College Ambassadors Backpack Cumberland Island: A Journey Through History and Nature

Led by College Ambassadors Julia Maas and Brennon Bates, a group of college students embarked on a three-day backpacking trip to Cumberland Island, Georgia. This trip offered an immersive experience in backcountry camping, historical exploration, and coastal wilderness, giving participants a chance to disconnect from daily life and engage with nature.

Day 1: The Journey Begins
The trip kicked off in the early morning at the Outdoor Adventure Center (OAC) before the group hit the road for the Cumberland Island Ferry. Upon arrival, they packed up their backpacks and caught the ferry to the island, eager for the adventure ahead.

After a quick lunch, the group began a 5.5-mile hike to their first campsite at Hickory Hill. The hike was filled with stunning scenery—towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss, winding sandy trails, and abundant wildlife. Armadillos frequently crossed their path, rummaging through the underbrush, and some participants spotted the island’s wild horses in the distance.

Upon arriving at Hickory Hill, the group set up camp and prepared supper. As the sun set, they enjoyed a well-earned meal before settling in for the night beneath a star-filled sky.

Day 2: A Sunset Beach Dinner and Campfire
The next morning, the group packed up camp and set off toward their second destination: Stafford Beach Campsite. Upon arrival, they had plenty of time to explore, set up camp, and gather firewood before heading out for the highlight of the evening—a sunset dinner on the beach.

As the sun began to dip toward the horizon, the trip leaders cooked supper while the rest of the group played along the shoreline, wading in the water and enjoying the ocean breeze. The moment was peaceful, scenic, and surreal, offering a perfect chance to soak in the beauty of Cumberland Island.

As darkness fell, the group hiked back to Stafford Beach Campsite, where they ended the night around a crackling campfire, sharing stories before heading to bed.

Day 3: Exploring Dungeness and the Ice House Museum
The final morning began with a stunning sunrise at Stafford Beach. The group woke up early to watch the first light stretch across the ocean, a breathtaking farewell to their time on the island.

After breakfast and packing up, they set off on their last hike of the trip. With plenty of time before the ferry, they made a planned detour to the historic Dungeness Ruins and the Ice House Museum.

The Dungeness Ruins, once a grand estate built by the Carnegie family, stood as an eerie yet beautiful reminder of the island’s past. Overgrown with vegetation, the crumbling stone walls created a hauntingly picturesque landscape. Nearby, the Ice House Museum provided deeper insight into the island’s history, with exhibits detailing its past inhabitants and the unique ecology of the region.

After exploring the ruins and museum, the group completed their hike and boarded the ferry back to the mainland. The long drive back to OAC was filled with tired but contented conversations, and a final debrief wrapped up the experience.

A Lasting Impact
For the College Ambassadors, this trip was more than just a backpacking excursion—it was an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in Cumberland Island’s wild beauty and rich history. From hiking under moss-draped canopies to watching the sunrise over the ocean, every moment deepened their connection to nature and each other.

As they returned home, exhausted but fulfilled, they carried with them not just memories of adventure but also a renewed appreciation for wild places and the importance of preserving them.