February 2013 News & Events from Georgia's State Parks

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February 2013

Georgia State Park Cabin

New Reservation System 

Last month we launched a new reservation system that offers improved navigation and interactive maps.  Guests can make reservations up to 13 months in advance (to the day) by visiting GeorgiaStateParks.org or calling 1-800-864-7275.   

Although summer vacation and autumn leaf watching seem far away, it’s not too early to plan ahead.  Our most popular cabins and group camps book far in advance!  

Check out our reservation website for:

 


2013 Guide

Free 2013 State Park Guide Available

The "2013 Guide to Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites" is a great resource for planning a weekend getaway, spring break or summer vacation. The free booklet is filled with tips on the state’s best hiking and biking trails, top fishing spots, affordable accommodations, group destinations and more. For a free copy, call 1-800-864-7275 or stop by any Georgia State Park or Historic Site. Locations can be found on GeorgiaStateParks.org/map. 

 


Spring Break at Georgia's State Parks

Affordable Spring Break Fun

Vacation Options & Free Passes

Looking for a way to get the kids outdoors for a day of adventure without spending a lot of money? Remember that a library card is all you need to check out a ParkPass or Historic Site Pass at Georgia’s public libraries. The passes are good for free parking or admission at any of Georgia's State Parks and State Historic Sites. There are tons of family-friendly events to enjoy, from moonlit hikes and paddles, to astronomy lessons and animal programs. For a listing of Georgia’s public libraries, go to www.georgialibraries.org.

For a week’s vacation, consider renting a cabin or yurt for your family.  Cabins come with fully equipped kitchens and outdoor grills, so you can save money on meals.  Yurts are like a “camping cabin,” with comfortable beds and furniture inside, and grills outside.  Hot showers are a short walk away.  Multiple families can even get together to rent our larger group camps with beds and showers.  Once everyone is settled in, you’ll find mini-golf, nature trails, kayak rental, fishing, ranger programs, bike trails and more just outside your door.  To plan a spring break vacation, visit GeorgiaStateParks.org/reservations.



SAM Shortline

Woo Your Sweetie 

With a Romantic Train Tour

Discover the romance of the rails with a trip aboard the SAM Shortline Excursion Train just before Valentine’s Day.  Based at Georgia Veterans State Park in Cordele, the train has a special trip planned for Saturday, February 9. Begin by browsing antique cars, then board the train to ride across sparkling Lake Blackshear and past scenic pecan groves.  End back at the Lake Blackshear Resort for a wonderful meal.  Overnight packages with breakfast buffet are available as well.  SAM Shortline isn’t just for couples; the train is great for church outings, family reunions, birthday parties and other groups, too. For more information, call 1-877-GA-RAILS (427-2457) or visit www.SamShortline.com

 


Cloudland Canyon Wedding

Romantic Weddings in the Parks

Planning a wedding or reception? We have beautiful indoor and outdoor venues to host your special day.  A new webpage showcases the wide range of facilities available, from the stone pavilion at Indian Springs State Park to the historic buildings at Fort King George Historic Site.  Check out GeorgiaStateParks.org/weddings to learn more about:

  • Hotel-style lodges with banquet rooms, guest rooms and catering staff
  • Outdoor spaces for tents and gazebos
  • Enclosed shelters with catering kitchens
  • Open-air picnic shelters with scenic views

 


Unicoi Fireside Arts & Crafts Festival

Fireside Arts & Crafts Show Near Helen

February 16 at Unicoi State Park

If you enjoy quality arts and crafts, head to Unicoi State Park and Lodge for the 38th Annual Fireside Craft/Art Show on Saturday, February 16. More than 60 of the Southeast’s finest artisans will showcase their work for this mountain tradition. The indoor, juried show has a reputation for excellence and is a nice balance between fine arts and quality crafts.  Admission is free and parking is just $5.  Learn more at GeorgiaStateParks.org/Unicoi

 


February 2013 Events

Divided By Region

Below are just some of the many programs happening in February.  
Check GeorgiaStateparks.org/events for a full calendar.

 

NORTH GEORGIA

Dancing Through The Decades
Friday, February 1, 8, 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Unicoi State Park and Lodge – Helen
Join professional dancer Carrie Elrod for a 4-week series. Each class will include a warm up, then participants will learn steps to social dances from a specific decade ('40s through '70s). From there, participants will learn social dances from the time period to put together in a fun routine at the end. $7 prepaid or $10 walk-in. $5 parking. (706) 878-2201 ext 305.

Advanced Land Navigation Course at Buck Shoals
Saturday, February 2, 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Smithgall Woods State Park – Helen
This six-hour course is part two in the Survival Series and will start with a refresher on the use of the compass and maps, and the establishment of individual pace counts. Students will then be sent to find a specific location with a teammate. Students will operate in heavily wooded flat to hilly terrain so should be physically fit. Register in advance. Fee plus $5 parking. (706) 878-3087. 

Learn to Play the Dulcimer
Saturday, February 2, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Smithgall Woods State Park – Helen
Music teacher Gwen Aumann will help you tune, strum, and learn easy, beginning songs for the dulcimer. Gwen plays a number of musical instruments; from the piano to the penny whistle, and performs with dulcimer groups. Register in advance. $35 plus $5 parking. (706) 878-3087. 

Falconry Experience at Buck Shoals
Sunday, February 3, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Smithgall Woods State Park – Helen
Learn about the art of falconry with Buster Brown, Co-Director of the Georgia Falconry Association. A short presentation will be followed by a live hunt. Proceeds purchase food for Smithgall’s captive hawk. Register by January 25. $45. Kids 12 and under free. $5 parking. (706) 878-3087. 

Dahlonega’s Mysterious Diving Bell
Tuesday, February 5, 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site – Dahlonega
In November 2012, Dahlonega welcomed its newest historical attraction -- the Chestatee River Diving Bell. Visitors come from across the nation to wonder at this marvel of 19th-century underwater technology, but how many know the mysteries surrounding the great iron bell? $3.50 - $6 (706) 864-2257.

Hemlock Update and Winter Botany
Saturday, February 9, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Smithgall Woods State Park – Helen
A report on the progress of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid treatment of our Eastern Hemlock trees will be followed by Botanist Jim Sullivan demonstrating how to identify plants using clues available in the winter. Winter Botany will include a short hike to identify nearby flora. Register in advance. $15. $5 parking. (706) 878-3087. 

Hike to the Heart
Saturday, February 16, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Fort Mountain State Park – Chatsworth
Take a romantic tractor ride up to the mountain overlook and learn about the heart-shaped stone in the old fire tower. Wagon rides will leave every half hour from 2:00 - 4:00 from shelter #1. Refreshments will be available for a small fee. Register in advance. Fees. $5 parking. (706) 422-1932. 

38th Annual Fireside Craft/Art Show
Saturday, February 16 through Sunday, February 17, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Unicoi State Park and Lodge - Helen
Celebrate 38 years of the Fireside Craft/Art Show. More than 60 of the Southeast’s finest artists and crafts people will be here for this Unicoi tradition. This indoor, juried show has a reputation for excellence and is a nice balance between fine arts and quality crafts. $5 parking. 800-573-9659 ext. 305. 

Survival Preparation and Skills Course Series
Saturday, February 16, 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Smithgall Woods State Park – Helen
In the third part of the Survival Series at Buck Shoals, this course will include classroom learning and field exercises. The course will include the psychology, planning, and equipment necessary for survival; venomous snakes, spiders, and insects endemic to Georgia; and survival medicine. $30 - $95 by January 7. $5 parking. (706) 878-3087. 

 

COASTAL GEORGIA 

Family Nature Quest
Monthly - Saturday, February 2, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Crooked River State Park – St. Marys
Want to learn about nature as a family? Come to our “fundana” activities each month and learn about a different topic. There will be 12 quests and at each program the family will receive one bandana about the topic. The family that completes the most quests will receive a bonus bandana for the entire family. Register in advance. $10 per family $5 parking. (912) 882-5256. 

Colonial Faire & Muster
Saturday, February 9 through Sunday, February 10, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Wormsloe Historic Site – Savannah
Experience life in Colonial Georgia during the 18th century with a military encampment, sutlers' row, craft demonstrations, military demonstrations, and period music and dance. Food concessions will be available. Free admission. (912) 353-3023. 

Wild Discovery Camp – Pre-K through 3rd Grade
Thursday, February 14 through Friday, February 15, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Crooked River State Park – St. Marys
Discover the outdoors and make new friends during this two-day camp. Enjoy hands-on learning about native animals, outdoor survival and safety skills, wild games, hikes, scavenger hunts, and more. Grades PreK- 3rd. Remember to send your students with lunch, snacks, plenty of water, and proper outdoor clothing. Register in advance. $30. $5 parking. (912) 882-5256. 

Wild Discovery Camp – 4th through 8th Grade
Monday, February 18 through Tuesday, February 19, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Crooked River State Park – St. Marys
Discover the outdoors and make new friends during this two-day camp. Enjoy hands-on learning about native animals, outdoor survival and safety skills, wild games, hikes, scavenger hunts, and more. Grades 4th- 8th. Remember to send your students with lunch, snacks, plenty of water, and proper outdoor clothing. Pre-registration required. $30. $5 parking. (912) 882-5256. 

 

SOUTHERN & CENTRAL GEORGIA 

Exploring Georgia’s Past – Historic Wagon Ride Tour
Saturday, February 2 and 16, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday, February 9 and 23, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Sunday, February 24, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge
Take a rustic wagon ride through the park, and through a slice of American History. Learn how the Civilian Conservation Corps created this park out of Dust-Bowl Era farm land, and made a recreation area for the public to enjoy for all time. Meet at the Park Office/Trading Post. $5 plus $5 parking. (706) 557-3007. 

Explore Georgia’s Past – Fireside stories of the CCC
Saturday, February 2 and 16, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge
Enjoy the colorful and interesting stories of the Civilian Conservation Corps and their work at Hard Labor Creek State Park from a seasoned, retired park ranger with a passion for CCC history. Enjoy s'mores by the side of a campfire as you listen to the story of Hard Labor Creek unfold. $5 parking. (706) 557-3001. 

High Falls Historic Walk
Saturday, February 2, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
High Falls State Park – Jackson
Join our naturalist on a 1.5-mile walk and learn about the history of the once-prosperous town of High Falls. Hike also includes a rare chance to tour inside the old powerhouse building, which provides great photo opportunities of the Towaliga River. Please wear sturdy shoes. Meet at the Visitor Center. $5 plus $5 parking. (478) 993-3053. 

Focus on Fitness Hike
Saturday, February 2, 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Reed Bingham State Park – Adel
Join an interpretative ranger to hike along our upland loop nature trail, which is also our fitness trail. Stop along markers to do jumping jacks and other fitness related activities. Please wear appropriate work out clothes, jogging shoes and bring water. $5 parking. (229) 896-3551. 

Romantic Valentine’s Excursion across Lake Blackshear:  “Be Mine” Package
Saturday, February 9
SAM Shortline Excursion Train – Cordele
Celebrate an early Valentine’s Day on this romantic train excursion across Lake Blackshear.  Begin by browsing antique cars, then board the train to ride across the sparkling lake and past scenic pecan groves.  End at the Lake Blackshear Resort for a wonderful meal. Overnight packages with breakfast buffet are available. 1-877-427-2457. 

Atlanta Audubon Beginners Bird Walk
Saturday, February 9, 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge
This field trip is designed for anyone interested in learning more about birds, habitats critical to some species, and organizations like the Audubon Society, which are dedicated to bird conservation. Meet at the Park Office/Trading Post. $5 parking. (706) 557-3001. 

Georgia Arbor Day
Saturday, February 9, 9 a.m.– 1 p.m.
Reed Bingham State Park – Adel
We're celebrating Georgia Arbor Day early with native tree planting, educational programs, and tree crafts. Get in the spirit of nature and plant a tree as thanks to our planet. $1 for craft. $5 parking. (229) 896-3551. 

A Celebration of Independence:  Our Revolutionary War Connection
Saturday, February 9, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Robert Toombs House Historic Site – Washington 
Period costumes from 1797-1925 and a favorite authentic recipe will enhance the visitors' experience. Dialogue taken from war records will tell of families' ancestors who fought in the Revolutionary War. The program will connect over 40 patriots to those who built, preserved and maintained the Robert Toombs House. $1.50-$4.50 (706) 678-2276. 

Year of the Snake Celebration
Sunday, February 10, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Reed Bingham State Park – Adel
This year the Chinese New Year celebrates the year of the snake. Celebrate these legless reptiles with a live snake show, snake crafts, and activities. $1 per craft. Animal shows are supported by donations. $5 parking. (229) 896-3551. 

Home School Day
Wednesday February 13
General Coffee State Park – Nicholls
Open to home school students only. February's program will focus on Georgia history with a special focus on life in the Wiregrass region of Georgia. Pre-registration required. $2 plus $5 parking. (912) 384-7082. 

Valdosta Kennel Club Agility Trials
Saturday, February 16 through Sunday, February 17, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Reed Bingham State Park – Adel
Come for a “dog-gone good time." Bring chairs to watch as dogs and their handlers compete in performance events to earn titles from the American Kennel Club. Concessions will be available. $5 parking. (229) 896-3551. 

The Dam Walk
Saturday, February 16, 10 a.m.
High Falls State Park – Jackson
Get up close and personal with the most predominant feature at High Falls State Park...the dam. Walk availability is dependent on river flow. No dogs. Must be 6 or older. Please wear durable shoes. $5 plus $5 parking. (478) 993-3053. 

Bird Bonanza and Terrific Tree Day
Saturday, February 16, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Little Ocmulgee State Park and Lodge – Helena
Take part in the National Great Backyard Bird Count with a guided bird walk and making bird crafts. Celebrate Arbor Day and the CCC in Georgia by planting a tree, taking a guided historic walk to view CCC sites and playing some Project Learning Tree games and creating tree crafts. $1-$3 plus $5 parking. (229) 868-7474x6052. 

President’s Day Weekend Guided Tours
Saturday, February 16, 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Roosevelt’s Little White House Historic Site – Warm Springs
Celebrate Presidents Day weekend with a guided tour of Roosevelt’s Little White House. Join Brian Roslund, Historian and President of the Friends of Roosevelt’s Little White House for 90-minute guided tours of the Memorial Museum, Grounds and Historic Site at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Reservations Required. $11-$15. (706) 655-5870. 

Conductor’s Favorite Train Ride
Saturday, February 16 and 23, 9:45 a.m. – 1:45 p.m.
SAM Shortline Excursion Train – Cordele
Enjoy this ride from Georgia Veterans State Park to Plains. Plains is the small Georgia town made famous by President Jimmy Carter. You will return to Ga. Veterans Park in time for visiting the indoor and outdoor museums. 1-877-427-2457. 

Backyard Bird Count
Saturday, February 16, 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Reed Bingham State Park – Adel
Bird watchers of all ages, join us in counting birds to create a real-time snapshot of where the birds are across the continent. Anyone can participate, from beginning bird watchers to experts. $5 parking. (229) 896-3551. 

Wild Gourmet in Winter
Saturday, February 17
Mistletoe State Park – Appling
What’s cooking this winter? We’re promised a hearty raccoon barbeque with an acorn side dish (acorn grits?) At this potluck, the only rule is that every dish must contain at least one wild ingredient. A little nervous? Come on anyway; we’ll teach you how to find delicious edibles all around you. $5 parking. (706) 541-0321.

Life as a Creek Indian
Saturday, February 23, 2 p.m.
High Falls State Park – Jackson
High Falls was once inhibited by the Creek Indian Nation. Learn what life was like for the Creek Indians before the settlers in this exciting program with stories, crafts, and games. Meet at the pool house. $5 plus $5 parking. (478) 993.3053. 

Buzzard Day
Saturday, February 23, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Reed Bingham State Park - Adel
Every year, thousands of black vultures and turkey vultures return this park for the winter. Take a pontoon boat ride to see their amazing numbers. Celebrate with some arts and Crafts as well as live animal shows. Animal shows are funded through donations. Boat rides are $4. $5 parking. (229) 896-3551. 

 

METRO ATLANTA

Basic Archery
Saturday, February 2, 3 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Take aim and hit the bull’s eye! Join a certified instructor to learn archery basics. Meet at the Archery Range. All equipment provided. If you have your own equipment, cost includes an all-day archery range pass. Ages 9 and up. Arrive 15 minutes prior to program. Register in Advance. $10. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801. 

Backcountry Geology Hike
Sunday, February 3, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
Geologist and Friends member John Johnston will lead a moderate three-mile hike identifying rock types and explaining how they formed. Explore the beautiful Jack's Branch area and the seldom-visited rock quarry of New Manchester. Meet in the Interpretive Center. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871. 

Atlanta Audubon Society Bird Walk
Sunday, February 10, 8 a.m. -11 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Bring your binoculars for this gentle hike through the park's Power of Flight area. Basic identification techniques and common birds will be discussed. Good for all ages. We recommend long pants and sleeves. Meet at the Alexander Lake Area. Register in advance. Donations of birdseed are appreciated. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801. 

Candlelight Hike to the Mill
Saturday, February 16, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
This mile-long guided night hike is easy to moderately difficult and goes inside the Civil War era textile mill ruins of New Manchester. Candle lanterns will be provided. No children under 6 years or dogs permitted. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are required. Space is limited and is on a first-come first-serve basis. Meet and register at the Interpretive Center. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871. 

Full Moon Night Hike
Saturday, February 23, 5:30 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Listen to whippoorwills and owls as the sun slowly sets and the moon begins to rise. Panola Mountain is one of the best places to see the wildlife of the night. Bring flashlights and hiking boots. Meet at the nature center 15 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $7 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801. 

“Ruins to Rapids” Full Moon Hike
Saturday, February 23, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
This 1.5-mile hike is moderately difficult and goes inside the Civil War-era textile mill ruins of New Manchester and follows the lovely rapids (up to class IV) of Sweetwater Creek. A flashlight and sturdy, closed-toe shoes are required. No children under 6 or dogs. Meet inside the Visitor's Center. Register in advance. $6 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.

 

Check GeorgiaStateParks.org/events for a full calendar. 

  

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