Keep an eye out for wildlife at St. George Island State Park
St. George Island State Park’s beach has fine, white sand. This makes it easy to lie comfortably on a towel or spot some beach souvenirs. Wildlife enjoy the beach too, such as pelicans, tiny white ghost crabs, terns, and loggerhead sea turtles. Campgrounds are just a quarter of a mile from the beach and while many have electricity and running water, Gap Point Primitive Campsites are more remote. Gap Point campsites are not accessible by car and do not have running water or restrooms. Gap Point Trail leads to the sites but kayaks or canoes can also get visitors to Gap Point. For either camping experience, make reservations well in advance through the Florida State Parks.
What makes camping at St. George Island State Park all the more special is the stargazing. After the sun sets, Jupiter, Saturn, and even the Milky Way become visible. Park staff are advocating for the area to become a Dark Sky park through the International Dark Sky Association. There is an observation platform to help visitors get the best views as well.
St. George Island State Park is famous for its fine, white sand
So what does Dr. Beach have to say about the beach at St. George Island State Park? “It has the finest whitest sand in the world, made of crystal — there’s nothing like it,” he explained to Forbes. “In the bright sun, it is so blinding white you need to wear your sunglasses.” He recommends beachcombing and shelling as the area has plenty of shellfish. Further west on St. George Island is the St. George Island Lighthouse. “It gives you a great view of the whole area—a panorama of the state park and the 9 miles of pristine beach,” Dr. Beach stated.
Keeping St. George Island State Park in such wonderful condition for visitors and local wildlife is an ongoing task. Endangered sea turtles come to the park to lay their eggs at the beach, as do least terns and black skimmers. Make sure to take all trash and belongings with you so that nothing ends up tangled with wildlife.
