UPDATE: COMMENT PERIOD EXTENDED Cumberland Island Releases Visitor Use Management Plan for final public engagement

ST. MARYS, Ga. - Cumberland Island National Seashore (Park) has extended the public comment period on the Visitor Use Management Plan to Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. The purpose of the plan is to provide appropriate opportunities for visitors to use, experience, and enjoyment of Cumberland Island National Seashore while ensuring the protection of natural, cultural, and scenic resources and values. The plan includes strategies to enhance visitor enjoyment and protect resources, while determining the appropriate kinds and amounts of visitor use for the Park.

The Park encourages online submission of substantive comments, suggestions, and concerns to ParkPlanning - Cumberland Island NS Visitor Use Management Plan (https://parkplanning.nps.gov/CUIS). To be considered official correspondence, comments should be submitted at this link, which is the preferred method, or mailed to 101 Wheeler St., St. Marys, GA 31558 with a post mark no later than Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026.

Cumberland Island is a remarkable place that includes some of the finest natural habitats on the east coast, and a rich cultural history that dates back 4,000 years. It is Georgia's largest barrier island, encompassing more than 36,000 acres of maritime forests, salt marsh, and beaches. The island is also home to more than 9,800 acres of congressionally designated wilderness.

The park's rich natural and cultural resources and uncrowded setting provides park visitors opportunities for solitude and exploration. The island's beaches, flora, fauna, trails, and surrounding waters, as well as its cultural sites, present opportunities for a broad array of interests and recreational pursuits. The park's mainland visitor center and mainland museum provide information for planning a trip to the park and learning about the island's meaningful history.

"We are happy to provide the Park with this updated plan that will increase visitor access and reflect updated management practices," said Cumberland Island National Seashore Superintendent Melissa Trenchik. "We encourage everyone to participate in this final round of public engagement and appreciate the feedback we have received from members of the public as well as collaborative consultations with our state and federal agency partners and federally recognized tribes."

The goal of Cumberland Island National Seashore's visitor use management plan is to establish a vision for the future by enhancing recreational opportunities for key visitor experiences, minimizing impacts to resources and experiences caused by visitor use, and determining appropriate kinds and amounts of access that protect the natural and cultural integrity of the park.