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Things to Do in St. George Island State Park
Relax on the Beach
The beach is definitely one of the biggest draws. St. George Island State Park is known for its miles of beautiful, white-sand shoreline, and it is a wonderful place to spread out a blanket, look for shells, or simply sit and listen to the waves.
Unlike some of Florida's more popular beaches, this area tends to feel much quieter and more natural. If you're looking for a peaceful beach day away from the crowds, this is a great place to find it.
Go for a Swim
The Gulf waters are inviting, especially during the warmer months, and swimming is a popular way to spend the afternoon. Before getting in the water, though, be sure to check the beach flag system for current conditions.
The Gulf can have strong currents, so even when the water looks calm, it is important to pay attention to posted warnings and swim safely.
Go Fishing
If fishing is your idea of a perfect day outdoors, you'll have plenty of opportunities here. You can cast a line right from the beach or launch a boat from the small bay-side ramp.
Depending on the season and conditions, anglers may catch redfish, flounder, pompano, and other Gulf species. If you plan to fish, remember to have the appropriate Florida fishing license before you start.
Explore the Hiking Trails
When you need a break from the beach, the park's trails offer a chance to see another side of St. George Island.
Gap Point Trail is about 5 miles round trip and takes you through pine forests and salt marshes. Along the way, you'll find beautiful views toward Apalachicola Bay.
For something much shorter and easier, try The Dune Nature Trail, a half-mile loop that winds through the island's sand dunes and coastal scrub. It is a nice little walk and a good option if you want to stretch your legs without committing to a long hike.
Watch for Birds and Wildlife
St. George Island State Park is also a great place for wildlife lovers. The park is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, so keep your eyes open as you explore. You may see herons, ospreys, bald eagles, and, if you're especially lucky, a red-cockaded woodpecker.
The wildlife isn't limited to birds, either. Deer, ghost crabs, dolphins, and sea turtles can all be spotted in and around the area. During sea turtle nesting season, generally from May through October, you may even have the opportunity to see signs of these incredible animals along the beach.
As always, give wildlife plenty of space and enjoy watching them from a distance.
Get Out on the Water
For another perspective of the island, consider kayaking or paddleboarding. The calmer waters of Apalachicola Bay are a great place to get out on the water while enjoying views of the area's natural coastline.
You can bring your own kayak or paddleboard, or look into rental options on the island. Being out on the water gives you a completely different appreciation for just how undeveloped and peaceful this part of Florida really is.
Spend the Night Under the Stars
If a day at the park isn't enough, you can make it an overnight adventure. St. George Island State Park has 60 campsites with water, electricity, picnic tables, and grills, with restrooms and hot showers nearby.
For those looking for something a little more primitive, there are also campsites that can only be reached by kayak or hiking. These sites offer a much more secluded camping experience and are a great choice if you really want to get away from it all.
When to Visit St. George Island State Park
There really isn't a bad season to visit, but your experience will be different depending on when you go.
Spring and fall are generally wonderful times to visit, with comfortable temperatures, fewer bugs, and smaller crowds. These seasons are especially nice if you plan to hike or spend a lot of time exploring.
Summer brings the heat, but it is also a great time for swimming and enjoying the Gulf. Just be prepared for Florida's sudden afternoon thunderstorms and keep an eye on the weather.
Winter is much quieter and can be a wonderful time to experience the park without the summer crowds. We visited in January, and while the day was cloudy and windy, it wasn't too cold to enjoy being outside. The cooler weather also made it comfortable for exploring and birdwatching.
Tips for Visiting St. George Island State Park
A little preparation can make your visit much more enjoyable. Bring plenty of sunscreen, bug spray, and water, especially if you're planning to spend several hours outdoors. Florida's sun can be intense even when temperatures don't feel particularly hot.
Because this is a natural area, keep an eye out for wildlife and give animals plenty of space. If you're visiting the beach, remember to pack out everything you bring in so the shoreline stays as beautiful as you found it.
It's also a good idea to check the weather and tide conditions before heading out, particularly if you plan to fish, kayak, or paddleboard.
Getting to St. George Island State Park
St. George Island is a barrier island off the coast of Apalachicola, Florida, and getting there is part of the fun. Once you cross the bridge onto the island, the scenery begins to feel a little more relaxed and removed from the busier areas of Florida's coast.
From Tallahassee, the drive is about 2 hours via US-319 S and US-98 E.
From Panama City, plan on approximately 2½ hours driving east along US-98.
If you're coming from Apalachicola, it's only about a 30-minute drive across the St. George Island Bridge.
Once you're on the island, continue toward the far eastern end, where the state park is located. Its distance from the busier areas of the island is part of what makes the park feel like such a peaceful escape.
Admission and Camping Fees
Before planning your trip, it's a good idea to check the current Florida State Parks website for the latest entrance and camping fees, since rates can change.
The listed entrance fees include:
- $6 per vehicle for two to eight people
- $4 for a single-occupant vehicle
- $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and additional passengers in certain circumstances
Boat Launch and Entrance Fees
If you're bringing a boat, additional fees apply:
- $8 for one person with a boat
- $10 for two to eight people with a boat
Camping Fees
Camping fees vary depending on the type of site or accommodation. The listed rate for RV, cabin, bungalow, boat, and yurt units is $24 per night plus tax, along with a non-refundable $6.70 reservation fee and a $7 nightly utility fee.
The utility fee covers water, electricity, and sewer and does not apply to tent camping.
Because park fees and policies can change, I recommend checking the current rates before your trip so you aren't surprised when you arrive.
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