August 2015 News from Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites

Georgia Department of Natural Resources sent this bulletin at 07/27/2015 10:15 AM EDT

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

August 2015
Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites

> IN THIS ISSUE: New Yurts Opening at Sweetwater Creek
swc yurts

“Glamping” Comes to Sweetwater Creek State Park

No tent? No problem. Campers wanting a bit of luxury will love the 10 new yurts opening late this month at Sweetwater Creek State Park. Yurts are like a combination between a cabin and tent, with soft beds inside and cozy campfires outside. Hot showers are a short walk away. This park just west of Atlanta is the sixth Georgia State Park to offer “glamping” – or glamour camping. The park will host an open house on August 29 where you are invited to tour the new yurts and check out the mill ruins, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, hiking trails, fishing spots and visitor center.

Go

Park Activities
gordonia golf

Golf at Great Rates

Discover championship golf at affordable prices at eight Georgia State Park Golf Courses. With challenging designs that leverage spectacular scenery, our courses are like playing a resort without surrounding houses.  Plus, they offer relaxed environments that welcome families and first-time golfers. Most offer clinics and private instruction for every age and level. Pro shops, packages, tournaments and member discounts are available as well. 

Go 		don carter beach

Celebrate Summer

Just because the kids are back in school doesn’t mean summer fun has to end. Take a day trip that’s close to home, where you can explore hiking trails and fishing ponds. Mix a history lesson with a fun excursion to one of our historic sites. Or stay cool with a dip in one of our swimming beaches or pools. For something new, rent a stand-up paddleboard at High Falls State Park near Jackson, or race through the spash pad at Gordonia-Alatamaha State Park in Reidsville. Use this map to discover a park near you. 

Go 		saybay38

Instagram Contest

Show off your Georgia State Park campsite this summer for a chance to win a $50 gift card from Bass Pro Shops. Tag your creative camping pictures with #CampGaStateParks when posting to Instagram, and include the name of the park you're visiting. Weekly winners will be chosen on Mondays through August 17. Never been camping in a Georgia State Park? You might enjoy our “First-Time Camper” program where you can borrow gear before buying your own. For just $50, get a campsite, tent, sleeping pads and more for two nights.

Go

Upcoming Events
sar dog

Dog Days of Summer -- Dog Day at Panola

Saturday, August 8, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Bring Fido for a tail-waggin’ time at the park. Includes a guided dog walk, K-9 demonstrations, canine obstacle course, pet adoptions, silent auction, face painting, games for you and your pooch, and even tree climbing (for people, not pups). Leashes required. Held at Alexander Lake side of the park. $5 parking. 770-389-7801

Panola Mountain State Park, Stockbridge
View Event
hlc kayak

Perseid Party and Paddle

August 13 – 15

On Thursday night, lay on the park's beach to enjoy the Perseid meteor shower until early hours of the morning. On Friday night, take a guided kayak tour of the lake to enjoy the show. Register in advance. Kayak tour free for cabin and campground guests. $5 beach viewing; $20 kayak tour; $5 parking. 706-557-3001

Hard Labor Creek State Park, Rutledge
View Event
panola bike

"Find Your Park" Centennial Bike Ride

August 28-30

Registration is now open for this bike tour commemorating the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service. Along the way, you’ll explore two National Historic Sites, three State Parks and even the SAM Shortline Excursion Train.

Multiple Locations
View EventView More Events

Featured Deal
save

Grab This Groupon!

Save 50% on camping rates at select Georgia State Parks this summer. You’ll pay just $16 to $22 per night to stay at Seminole, Florence Marina, George L. Smith, General Coffee, Gordonia-Alatamaha, Reed Bingham, Magnolia Springs, Kolomoki Mounds, Fort McAllister and Crooked River state parks.

View DealView More Deals