Fox 5's “Good Day Atlanta” Visits Renovated Dahlonega Gold Museum

 Did you know America’s first gold rush began in Georgia, not California? Twenty years before the famous 1849 discovery, thousands of prospectors flocked into north Georgia searching for treasure. Step back in time to our nation’s first gold rush with Fox 5 TV. “Good Day Atlanta” host Paul Milliken recently toured the newly renovated Dahlonega Gold Museum located in the old Lumpkin County Courthouse. This historic site is open daily and makes a great day trip, surrounded by restaurants, shops and local history. Love a challenge? Ask about their escape rooms. 

Places to Chill this Summer Whether you prefer lakes, pools, rivers or splash pads, we have a spot for you to chill this summer. Kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent at most of the state parks, and members can bring their own as well. Join our Park Paddlers Club and you’ll explore six beautiful waterways, from the marshes of Crooked River to the mysterious Okefenokee Swamp. Be sure to stay safe around water by following SPLASH tips.

Cherokee Nation Celebration at New Echota

Last month, leaders and members from all three federally recognized Cherokee tribes and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation gathered at New Echota Historic Site for the first Cherokee homecoming celebration. In 1825, New Echota was the Cherokee nation’s capital and where the “Trail of Tears” officially began. Today’s visitors can see the print shop, court house, missionary home and more. Nearby is Chief Vann House Historic Site, the 1804 home of two Cherokee leaders.

Extend Your Labor Day Getaway with Discounts

Extend the last hurrah-to-summer holiday with a discount on accommodations inside Georgia’s State Parks. Save 50% on camping and 40% on cottages and yurts, Monday night through Thursday night (September 3 – 6). Use promo code LAB18 when booking your getaway. Find participating parks and more summer deals on GaStateParks.org.

New Horse Trails Open on Georgia's Largest Lake Giddyup! More than 12 miles of horse trails are now open at Don Carter State Park, sitting on the northern end of Lake Lanier. The system is made up of four main loops, several connector trails and even views of the sparkling lake. Before heading out on trails, riders must show current Coggins paperwork at the park office. At this time, stables are not available. Call 678-450-7726 to learn more.

Upcoming Events

Find more hikes, paddling trips, nature programs, tours and more online.

Intro to Paddling – August 8, 10:30 a.m., Reed Bingham State Park, Adel

Waterfall “Hidden Gem” Hike – August 10, 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. – Black Rock Mountain State Park, Mountain City

Beginner Archery Class – August 10, 4 p.m., Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill

Perseids Meteor Kayak Tour – August 10, 10 p.m., Hard Labor Creek State Park, Rutledge

Camera Scavenger Hunt – Saturdays in August, Chattahoochee Bend State Park, Newnan

Steam Engine Demonstration – August 11, Jarrell Plantation Historic Site, Juliette

Escape Room – August 11, 6:30 p.m., Dahlonega Gold Museum, Dahlonega

Kids Fishing Workshop – August 11, 4 p.m., Magnolia Springs State Park, Millen

Look Who's In The News

Atlanta Journal Constitution -- Plan your trip: A guide to the Okefenokee swamp

Flagpole Magazine -- Watson Mill Bridge Offers a Quick Cool Retreat

E Southern Golf -- Budget Friendly and Beautiful Golf

SouthernThing.com -- You can camp in a yurt just minutes away from Downtown Atlanta