Women's Wilderness Weekend, Mother's Day and Outdoor Events

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May 2017

Celebrate Mother’s Day with Mother Nature

Outdoorsy families will find plenty of ways to celebrate Mother’s Day in Georgia’s State Parks. On Sunday, May 14, pack a picnic and plan a day together that Mom will cherish for years. We have picnic shelters for families of all sizes, plus beautiful scenery. Want more ideas? Check out these gift ideas for a memorable Mother’s Day.

Park Activities

National Kids to Parks Day - May 20

On May 20, join families across the nation for ranger-led hikes, guided kayaking trips, geocaching, reptile programs, archery classes and more. Sponsored by the National Park Trust, the Kids to Parks Day celebration encourages children and their families to explore public lands. Find an event near you.

Join Our Heart-Pumpin’ Activity Clubs

Go at your own pace as you take on challenges such as our Canyon Climbers Club, Park Paddlers Club and Muddy Spokes Club. Even your four-legged friend can join in the fun with our Tails on Trails Club for dogs. Once you accomplish each goal, you’ll earn a bragging-rights t-shirt and even a matching bandana for Bailey. Take a look at all our clubs and see which ones are best for you.

Dahlonega Gold Museum

Twenty years before the 1849 gold boom in California, thousands of prospectors flocked into the Cherokee Nation in north Georgia, marking the true beginning of our country’s first gold rush. Today, visitor can see nuggets and learn about mining at Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site, located inside the 1836 Lumpkin County Courthouse.

Park Events

Dance the Night Away

Sock Hop at the Pavilion

Indian Springs State Park - Flovilla

Dust off your poodle skirts and letter sweaters for music, dancing and refreshments at the park's historic stone pavilion. The Friends of Indian Springs State Park will sell dinner and Coke floats. $5 parking. 770-504-2277.

May 13, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Backpacking

Women's Wilderness Weekend

Tallulah Gorge State Park - Tallulah Falls

Ladies ages 16 and older, join us for a ranger-led, overnight adventure packed with fun. Activities include backpacking, archery, hiking, campfire cooking, birding and paddling. Bring camping gear, water, snacks, good hiking shoes and binoculars if you have them. Call to register. $75 plus $5 parking. 706-754-7981.

May 20 - 21

Reptile Day

Reptile Day at Panola Mountain

Panola Mountain State Park - Stockbridge

Are you in love with lizards? Silly for snakes? Meet fascinating reptiles from our own backyards and around the world, plus members of the Georgia Reptile Society and Georgia Herpetological Society. $5 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

Saturday, May 20, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Meows & Wags

Dog and Cat Adopt-a-Thon

Laura S. Walker State Park - Waycross

Adopt a cat or dog, enjoy raffles and exhibits from local animal-associated businesses, bring your leashed pet to enjoy our nature trails and participate in a vaccine clinic. $5 parking. 912-287-4900.

Saturday, May 27, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Featured Deal

Memorial Day Summer Kickoff

Extend your holiday after the official kickoff of summer. Between May 29 and June 1, save 40% on camping or 20% on cottages and yurts. Chooses from outdoor destinations such as Fort Mountain, Magnolia Springs, Sweetwater Creek and Crooked River state parks. Minimum 2-night stay required. Cannot be used with any other discounts or offers. Excludes Moccasin Creek State Park. Make reservations by calling 1-800-864-7275 or at www.GaStateParks.org. Promo code MEMDAYPROMO17.