Exploring Jacksonville North/St. Mary’s KOA: From Scenic Campgrounds to Coastal Cuisine

During our recent travels, we had the pleasure of staying at the St. Mary’s Jacksonville KOA in Kingsland, Georgia. This KOA proved to be an excellent base for our adventures, offering full hookups with gravel-padded sites nestled amidst lush trees. One of the standout features was the 18-hole miniature golf course, with random features at various holes to make it more challenging.

They also had a pool and water slides, although we wished the weather had been warmer and the pool heater had worked. Plus, the complimentary breakfast, including free waffles every morning and biscuits and gravy on weekends, was a delightful surprise. The well-stocked camp store and cozy evening fires made our stay even more enjoyable, and its central location made accessing nearby attractions a breeze.

Local Delights at Locals Dockside Seafood

Our culinary journey began with a recommendation from a mobile mechanic at the KOA to visit Locals Dockside Seafood. The restaurant boasted stunning views, particularly during sunset, and we indulged in jalapeño and cheese-stuffed shrimp as starters. While my sirloin was served cold, Shelly thoroughly enjoyed her blackened shrimp and fish of the day, accompanied by sweet potato fries.

Weekend Getaway to Amelia Island

Over the weekend, we ventured to Amelia Island, a destination that had long been on my sister's bucket list. Armed with recommendations from locals, we explored the island's dining scene, starting with lunch at the Salty Pelican. This waterfront eatery offered a diverse menu, and we savored an oyster trio before diving into our main courses. My blackened salmon sandwich was a highlight, while Shelly and my sister relished a ribeye and shrimp meal. The peanut butter pie dessert was the perfect sweet finish to our meal.

Exploring Historic Spots and Unique Finds

After lunch, we wandered through charming shops and briefly visited The Palace Saloon, touted as Florida's oldest bar, although it didn't quite meet our expectations. Seeking something more intriguing, we stumbled upon the Marlin and Barrel Distillery, a veteran-owned establishment crafting unique spirits. Their pepper vodka left a lasting impression, particularly when mixed into a spicy Bloody Mary. While they don't ship their products, we highly recommend stopping by for a tasting if you're in the area.

From scenic campgrounds to delectable dining experiences and unexpected discoveries, our journey through Jacksonville North/St. Mary’s KOA and Amelia Island was filled with memorable moments.

Until next time, keep spinning the wheel of adventure!

Happy RVing!

2KidsatHeart 🚐💨