Unseasonably warm temperatures during October have pushed back our fall leaf season, so it’s not too late to plan your autumn escape. Many state parks, even in the mountains, still have a mix of green, yellow and gold. Later in November, we’ll see cypress needles turn deep orange in southern Georgia. To help leaf peepers find the best scenery, Georgia’s State Parks offer an online “Leaf Watch” travel planner, with top parks to visit, fall events, cabins and campsites, hiking tips and more. Shutterbugs are encouraged to share their favorite shots on Facebook and Instagram, tagging #GaLeafWatch and #GaStateParks. 

To say thank you to our men and women of service, we’re inviting all military to a day of play. Between Friday, November 10 and Sunday, November 12, military can enjoy one free hour of non-motorized recreation, such as mini-golf, kayaking, stand-up paddleboards, aquacycles, disc golf or archery. If golf is your game, play 18 holes for the price of just a cart fee. Golfers must call the courses for tee times and mention this discount. Deals are valid for all U.S. veterans, active duty, reserve military and National Guard with valid military ID. Must present certificate available on www.GaStateParks.org/Specials.

Too much Thanksgiving turkey? Join park rangers for calorie-crunching outings at Fort Mountain, Hard Labor Creek, Sweetwater Creek and more state parks on the days following Thanksgiving. Bring your friends and family to start a new tradition of enjoying the great outdoors rather than shopping malls. Find post-Thanksgiving events on our calendar and join the national #OptOutside movement. (Insider Tip: Georgia's State Parks are open on Thanksgiving Day; however, most offices will be closed so staff can spend time with their families.)

On the first three weekends in November, expert kayakers come from all across the country to paddle through Tallulah Gorge State Park.  During these “whitewater releases,” visitors can watch the action from overlooks along the rim trails. Sign up in advance for ranger-led hikes to get an even better view of the action. (Insider Tip: Be sure to watch the park's film before heading out on the trails.)

This holiday season, when you buy gift cards for those on your list, you’ll get a little something for yourself as well. Buy $50 or more in Georgia State Park Gift Cards, and you can join one of our activity clubs for free. Choose from Canyon Climbers, Park Paddlers, Muddy Spokes and even our Fido-friendly Tails on Trails Club. These heart-pumping challenges will get you exploring Georgia throughout the next year. Gift cards can be purchased online or in park offices. Valid November 27 – December 24, 2017.