Cozy Norris Cottage

05/27/2024

Did you know that the red poppy serves as a symbol of remembrance and hope for a peaceful future?

This symbolism began as commemoration to veterans in World War I. Inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields," written by Canadian soldier John McCrae after witnessing the devastation of war, American educator Moina Michael was deeply moved. The poem's image of poppies blooming "between the crosses,row on row" resonated with her. Moina penned her own poem, "We Shall Keep the Faith," and took action. She started wearing a red poppy every day and sold poppy corsages to raise money for veterans and their families.

Her dedication spread. Today, the poppy is a global symbol of remembrance, a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served.

This Memorial Day, we remember all those who gave their lives. ❤️

05/03/2024

Plan a day trip out to Cumberland Island and make your home base Norris Cottage, right in downtown St. Marys a short 5 blocks from the ferry.

airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

https://www.vrbo.com/2760115

This Georgia barrier island offers visitors an immersion into another time, including historic ruins and wild horses. Here's what to know about visiting Cumberland Island, as well as the best things to do.

04/30/2024

Read Okefenokee mine would be an environmental disaster by Melinda Sylvester for SaportaReport here.

04/30/2024

The Right Whale Festival is the first weekend in November (2nd and 3rd) in Fernandina Beach, just a short drive from St. Marys.

https://www.airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

https://www.vrbo.com/2760115

There are around 360 North Atlantic right whales left on the planet, so every calf is precious.

04/16/2024

Norris Cottage is the perfect place to stay while visiting two on this list! The ferry to Cumberland Island is just 5 blocks away and Okefenokee Swamp is just under an hour.

https://www.airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

https://www.vrbo.com/2760115

The best places to visit in Georgia range from bustling college towns to barrier islands with wild horses and unspoiled beaches.

04/09/2024

Come for a day trip out to Cumberland Island AND visit Neutral Zone Studios for that Star Trek experience! What could be better!

Norris Cottage is the perfect place to stay.

https://www.airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

https://www.vrbo.com/2760115

HELP US KEEP THE LIGHTS ON!
PLEASE CONTRIBUTE TO OUR CROWD FUNDING CAMPAIGN!

https://igg.me/at/tnz

04/09/2024

Today is the last day to submit comments!

This is the public's last chance to comment on Twin Pines' proposed mining operations impacting the Okefenokee. Tell EPD to DENY the permits! Attend the public comment meeting on March 5 and COMMENT by April 9.

04/09/2024

Actor and activist Leonardo DiCaprio came out against a controversial mining project near the Okefenokee Swamp Friday, publishing a statement to his Instagram account urging fans to “save one of the most significant wetlands on Earth.”

03/25/2024

03/24/2024

03/18/2024

Today was the first official use of the track chairs by our intrepid visitor Michael. It was his first visit to the island, something he wanted to do but had not due to his limited mobility. The track chair allowed him to travel throughout the south end of the island to see what other visitors enjoy. He did have one complaint: Not enough time. A complaint we are happy to hear!

All-terrain track chairs are designed with safety in mind, giving visitors who otherwise might not be able to navigate more difficult types of terrain the ability to hit the trails and navigate through mud, water, sand, and snow. Qualifying park visitors can experience a sense of freedom that can be difficult to have in an everyday wheelchair. Track chairs can be used for hiking, hunting, fishing and other outdoor education and recreational activities.

The chairs are provided free to visitors who qualify. Reservations are required at least 72 hours in advance, and users must have a buddy with them at all times. Find more information on All Terrain Georgia. https://www.allterraingeorgia.org/

03/09/2024

Trekkies, did you know you can visit a replica studio set of the Enterprise in nearby Kingsland, Georgia?

https://www.airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

https://www.vrbo.com/2760115

When the coordinates were set for THE NEUTRAL ZONE in Kingsland, Georgia, it was as if the universe itself had conspired to bring my lifelong voyage full circle, calling me to a destination where the final frontier could be experienced not as a distant dream, but as a tangible reality.

03/06/2024

Come see for yourself why we are on the list!
IYKYK!

https://www.airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

https://www.vrbo.com/2760115

St. Marys, Georgia: Vote for your favorite small town in the South!!

03/06/2024

A federal agency is asserting legal rights to waters that feed the Okefenokee Swamp and its vast wildlife refuge, setting up a new battle with a mining company seeking permits to withdraw more than 1.4 million gallons per day.

02/12/2024

Hope grows as injured calf continues to, but there are reasons for concern

01/17/2024

Cozy Norris Cottage is the perfect place to stay for a visit to both Cumberland Island and the Okefenokee Swamp!
Conveniently located in downtown St. Marys.

https://www.airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

https://www.vrbo.com/2760115?unitId=3332015

For our expedition, go west!

The Okefenokee Swamp is connected to Cumberland Island by the St Marys River. Cypress trees covered with Spanish moss hanging over the reflective black water create beautiful vistas. Alligators, deer and a variety a birds are easily seen.

There are three entrances to explore the Swamp, each showing different aspects of the swamp: prairies, forests and lakes. Explore homesteads, stroll the boardwalks and take a boat tour. There are many ways to discover the wonder of the Swamp.

Filled with wildlife sightings, cool plants and lots of history, this is one not to miss.

01/03/2024

Go see it before it sails!

12/03/2023

Holiday festivities are in full swing in St. Marys!
Come visit!

https://www.airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

https://www.vrbo.com/2760115?unitId=3332015

11/22/2023

Lots of holiday related activities planned for the month of December in St. Marys!
Norris Cottage is the perfect place to stay right downtown close to everything !

https://www.airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

https://www.vrbo.com/2760115?unitId=3332015

Festivities begin the Tuesday after Thanksgiving We're thankful for Thanksgiving Day and our locals and visitors! We want to let you know the holiday season kicks off for us in St. Marys the Tuesday a

11/15/2023

Protect the St. Marys River this by donating to St. Marys Riverkeeper! Our goal is to raise $15,000 between today and December 31st, but we need your help! Your investment in our ongoing work ensures that whenever the St. Marys River watershed needs us, we'll be able to be there—every time.

With a gift of $100 or more, your name will be entered into our raffle for a BOTE Zepplin Aero 10' Native, sponsored by Hagan Coastal Outfitters.

Donate TODAY - https://www.gagives.org/organization/St-Marys-Riverkeeper

11/05/2023

St. Marys made it on another list! Come see for yourself!

Cozy Norris Cottage is the perfect place to stay during your visit, conveniently located right downtown just 5 blocks from the riverfront.

https://www.airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

https://www.vrbo.com/2760115?unitId=3332015

Georgia boasts scenic beauty, historic towns with well-preserved districts, witness to pivotal events, near larger cities for day trips and getaways.

10/02/2023

Excellent!

Following widespread bipartisan support, the National Park Service
announced today that it will nominate the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge to join the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Inscription on the World Heritage List would honor the Okefenokee’s natural and cultural significance and solidify the United States’ commitment to protect it.

Read more about this next step in joining the UNESCO World Heritage List: https://www.ajc.com/news/okefenokee-natl-wildlife-refuge-to-be-nominated-as-world-heritage-site/PVYPAZFRG5CGHAHIX3MYWQJHJ4/

09/30/2023

Fall is the best time to visit Cumberland Island IMO!
And Norris Cottage is the perfect place to stay in St. Marys during your visit.

https://www.airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

https://www.vrbo.com/2760115?unitId=3332015

Ferry schedule changing!

Fall is a great time to enjoy the Island. As of October 1, 2023 the ferry times are changing for the season, giving you plenty of time to relax and explore during your visit.

The departures are at 9:00 am and 11:45 am but the only return in the afternoon is at 4:45 pm. No 2:45 pm return. The ferry will still run 7 days a week.

Plan for your trip. Bring snacks and drinks. Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures. Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Don’t forget to charge your phone ahead of time for some great photos.

09/20/2023

The cottage is available this weekend if you win!

https://www.airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

FREE JAGS TICKETS
Who wants two tickets to see the jags take on Houston this Sunday? Not just any tickets either. These are front row tickets with food and beverages included ! Like and share this post for a chance to win. Winners picked at random. Share often for more chances.Decision of judges is final. Must be 21 or older to win.

Ticket value is $680.00 per ticket. Tickets may not be transferred or sold.

09/09/2023

Happy ! Cumberland Island may be a pack-it-in, pack-it-out park, but did you know there are two additional things you can bring back from your trip?

Guests are welcome to keep fossilized sharks’ teeth and empty shells that they find! These can act as great mementos of your time at the National Seashore.

Many different types of shells can be found on the island, including auger shells, lettered olives, heart cockles, and moon snails. Just remember to make sure there is no creature inside! Remember, all wildlife must be left on the island. Plus, your car ride home would turn into a very stinky trip!

Have you found any excellent shells on Cumberland Island? Share them with us below!

08/30/2023

"Over 200 years ago, early Americans wrote how the Muscogee (Creek) people described the Okefenokee Swamp as the most blissful spot on earth. In 2023, Muscogee people are still drawn to the waters of the Okefenokee." ⁠
⁠
Muscogee Nation Chief David Hill declared Trail Ridge from Hoboken, Georgia, to the St. Marys River, a Sacred Site. Trail Ridge is the geological barrier that forms the eastern boundary of the swamp and maintains the swamp’s water levels. If this sacred land is jeopardized, the entire swamp could be harmed. ⁠
⁠
Join us in thanking Chief Hill for his work in preserving important sites that benefit Georgians of the past, present and future. ⁠
⁠

08/29/2023

Did you know that sea turtles hatch from their eggs days prior to emerging from their nest?

They first break out of their eggshell using their temporary egg tooth, or caruncle, to escape from the confines of the egg. Then, they wait. They absorb the remaining yolk energy and uncurl from their cramped position inside the egg. Slowly, the hatchlings around them start to move, restless and yearning for the surface. The last step is to emerge from the nest and begin their life’s journey at sea.

As the hatchlings begin to feel movement around them, a frantic sand-tastic dance begins. Hatchlings claw, flap, and dig their way out of their sandy home. This process is sometimes referred to as a “boil.” It quite literally appears as if turtles are “boiling” from beneath the sand’s surface! But it is not over yet - the most treacherous part of the journey lies ahead. If they survive the run to the sea, the swim to the Gulf Stream current, and the many hungry mouths both above and below - in 30 years, they may return to repeat the cycle.

Sea Turtle nesting season is winding down, with few nests reported in the last few weeks. We have had 1082 nests, but more than half have already hatched.

Remember: Nests, eggs, hatchlings, and adult sea turtles are all protected by State and Federal Laws. Please do not attempt to harass or touch sea turtles. See a sick or injured turtle? Call the GA DNR at 800-272-8363.

How will the remaining nests weather the impacts of Tropical Storm Idalia? Check back next week for an update!

08/12/2023

We think so too! And Norris Cottage is the perfect place to stay during your visit!

https://www.airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

https://www.vrbo.com/2760115?unitId=3332015

Make the most of your day trip to Georgia's remote Cumberland Island with these tips for things to see and do.

08/09/2023

Since the start of our fight to save the Okefenokee Swamp, we have alerted you at critical crossroads on ways you can take action to advocate for the protection of this natural treasure. ⁠
⁠
This month we collaborated with climate activism app Regroop to create a new advocacy action campaign that houses a number of impactful actions in one convenient app.⁠
⁠
Join the “Protect the Okefenokee” campaign on the Regroop app to ask Georgia legislators to sign the Okefenokee Protection Act, urge Governor Kemp to oppose Twin Pines Minerals mining permit application, engage the media to cover this urgent issue and more. ⁠
⁠
Download the app today: https://regroop.club/ and join “Protect the Okefenokee” when it launches on August 14.

08/09/2023

Plan your day trip out to Cumberland Island and start by booking a stay at Norris Cottage, located just a few blocks from the ferry.

https://www.airbnb.com/h/norriscottage-stmarys

https://www.vrbo.com/2760115?unitId=3332015

There are 50 miles of walking trails on Cumberland Island National Seashore to be explored by visitors and campers.

Duck House Trail is in the middle of the island, can be accessed from the main road, and leads east. It is 1.9 miles long and brings you through the maritime forest to the beach.

Sheets of Spanish moss hang from the trees creating mossy veils to duck under and to marvel at. Along this trail, you’ll find both mature and new vines twisting and turning among the trees. You’ll come across some small ponds on either side of the trail and if you’re lucky (or unlucky), you might glimpse an alligator inconspicuously lounging in the duckweed. Other animals you’ll see evidence of are horses, armadillos, feral hogs, and moles.

Southern live oak trees become less abundant as the trail nears the dunes, and tall skinny pine trees line the way. As you get closer to the beach access, you are greeted with slight sounds of ocean waves pushing up along the beach sands. Just before the dunes, the trail invites you in on its secret treasures as bushes and vines create a “secret” entrance complete with b***y traps of thorny bushes. The payoff is the glimpse of the Atlantic Ocean with waves looking over others coming in.

Minimum Supplies Suggested:

• Drinking water
• A multiple insect repellant battle plan
• Park map
• Long pants

Always remember…Take only memories, Leave only footprints.