Manager's Message
Josh Hodson, Park Manager
I invite you to visit Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park to camp, fish, kayak, bird-watch, shell or just enjoy the beach. The park has something for everyone.
St. George Island is a 20-mile-long barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico, four miles offshore from the mainland of Franklin County. The state park occupies the easternmost nine miles of the island. The park has 2,023 acres of varied habitats and ecosystems. Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park regularly ranks as one of America’s top beaches.
While on the beach, you might see nesting shorebirds. Sightings of American oystercatchers, black skimmers, terns and plovers are quite common. Fishing opportunities abound with surf fishing on the gulf side and kayak fishing on the bayside.
Sea turtles may be seen laying their nests in the early morning or late evening. Please do not bother the turtles if you are lucky enough to encounter one digging a nest or traveling to and from the water. Also, please minimize your use of white lights on the beach at night to avoid disorienting turtles - large or small.
If you are on the beach at night, look up and marvel at how dark the skies are here. Sightings of the Milky Way and fainter constellations are frequent.
Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park has 60 campsites that fill up quickly, so be sure to make reservations in advance. Reservations for camping can be made online or by calling 1-800-326-3521.
Pets are permitted in the campground and on paved surfaces and the nature trails but are not permitted on the beach or in any of the park facilities. Service animals are permitted in all areas of the park. Please be sure to view our pet policy.
The East End Special Use Area is currently closed to vehicular access. You may still access this area of the park via walking, bicycle or by boat. Please avoid marked shorebird nesting areas.
Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park is always seeking the aid of volunteers in many areas, including special events, ranger station, turtle monitoring, bird stewardship, interpretive programs, general maintenance and photography. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Melody Bamburg, 850-927-2111.
I'd love to see you on the island!