:: Georgia State Parks

The map of Georgia is dotted with State Parks to resemble a constellation. So you will pretty much have one in your backyard or somewhere near by. These are all havens of outdoor sport amid the wonders of nature, affording great entertainment, exercise, and loads of fun.

The perennial favourites among a host of activities would have to be hiking and trekking. Almost all Parks have trails to accommodate all levels of expertise and fitness as well as guided or personal tours. The trails may be paved to ensure safe trekking for beginners or they may be fashioned by nature to provide thrills for the hardy and the foolhardy. Challenging trails may be found at Cloudland Canyon, Amicalola Falls, and Fort Mountain to name a few.

Swimming and fishing would be a close second as far as popular Park activities are concerned. Facilities for these are available almost in all Parks, with life guards for your security. Beaches however, may be unguarded and you may have to watch out for yourself and each other. Besides these activities there are a variety of water sports on offer at many parks. Boating and water skiing facilities are available at some locations. Fishing might require a permit and some parks only permit catch and release fishing.

Parks such as the Indian Springs, Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation Historic Site and the Jarrel Plantation Historic Site, hold a wealth of history that dates back to native Indians and the Civil War. Some are replete with Black History and tales of haunting. Some parks even have ghost tours and midnight tours that are meant to spook and thrill.

Parks such as the Hard Labour Creek, Watson Mill Bridge, F.D. Roosevelt, and Fort Mountain allow horse riding, and you can rent them or even bring your own. For a more genteel activity, try picnicking at various scenic spots designated just for this at all parks state-wide. Bird watching is another innocuous activity that will excite the enthusiast to bits, and opportunities for this abound at Southern Rivers Birding Trail and the Colonial Coast Birding Trail.

Sports such as tennis and golf are available at few select locations. Golfers should head for The Creek at Hard Labour, Meadow Links at George T. Bagby, The Lakes at Laura S.Walker, and Highland Walk at Victoria Bryant. Tennis can be found at Cloudland Canyon, Tallulah Gorge, Red Top Mountain, Fort Yargo, and Florence Marina for some quality putting amid beautifully landscaped surrounds.