Seek Solitude at Magnolia Springs
Beautiful Magnolia Springs State Park is known for its crystal-clear springs flowing 7 million gallons per day. Take a stroll on the boardwalk to look for alligators, turtles and egrets, or simply kick back by the lake with your fishing pole. Five miles of trails are open for hiking and biking, and the park is part of Georgia’s Muddy Spokes Club. A small museum tells the story of Civil War soldiers once held at Camp Lawton prison. Both cabins and campsites are available at this quiet retreat.
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Play All Day at Hard Labor Creek
Hard Labor Creek’s name may sound like a place for tough toiling, but the park is definitely “all play, all day.” With mountain bike trails, a golf course, fishing lake, swimming beach, hiking trails, geocaching and even equestrian facilities, visitors will find plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Beautifully renovated cabins have screened porches and fireplaces, and the campground offers hot showers and some full hookups. Guests can sign up in advance for ranger-led kayak trips and archery classes.
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For fresh air and beautiful autumn views, make Georgia's State Parks your basecamp for exploration. Check out these social-distancing activities available at lesser-known destinations, like fishing at Hamburg or stargazing at Stephen C. Foster. Kick back in a cabin or pitch a tent under the stars for a well deserved escape.
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Have you heard about the spirited cross between soccer and golf? Brazell’s Creek Golf Course in southeast Georgia will host the American FootGolf League’s National Championship from November 5 through 8, plus an amateur competition on November 14. Make plans to come watch and discover your new favorite sport. The course is part of Jack Hill (Gordonia-Alatamaha) State Park in Reidsville. This park was recently renamed in honor of Georgia Senator Jack Hill who was a strong supporter of the park and community. Cabins and campsites are available at Jack Hill, George L. Smith, General Coffee and other nearby parks.
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Forbes -- Six Underrated Southern Destinations to Include on a Nature Lover's Road Trip (Reed Bingham State Park)
AllOnGeorgia -- State Park and Historic Site Managers Win Awards
WRDW TV Augusta -- Rev up the RV: Local camping industry booms in pandemic (Mistletoe State Park)
Budget Travel -- 10 Social Distance Getaways In or Near Atlanta (Providence Canyon and Red Top Mountain state parks)
365 Atlanta Traveler -- Hard Labor Creek State Park: An Affordable Family Resort
Greenville News -- Summer Road Trips, Tugaloo State Park
Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites have planned guided hikes, archery classes and more programs to get you outside this fall. To ensure social distancing and safety, guests must register in advance because group sizes are limited. Times and more details are listed on GaStateParks.org.
Kayak and Canoe Adventure
September 9
Magnolia Springs State Park - Millen
Middle and high school homeschool students will learn the basic strokes of kayaking/canoeing and take a ranger-led trip on the lake. Learn about the plants and animals in the lake. Register in advance; limited to 16 students. $20 plus $5 parking. 478-982-1660.
Fall Bingo and Campfire
September 11
F.D. Roosevelt State Park - Pine Mountain
Play our original adult and family friendly bingo to win great prizes. Bring your own roasting stick, marshmallows and enjoy toasting it over a fire. Register in advance; limited to 12 people. $3 plus $5 parking. 706-663-4858.
Soldier's Life: Key's Battery
September 12
Pickett's Mill Battlefield Historic Site - Dallas
Learn about the Confederate artillery position, "Key's Battery," and its significant role in the Battle of Pickett's Mill. The feature demonstration for this program will be cannon crew drills and firing demonstrations. $5 parking. 770-443-7850.
Doggy Drive-In
September 12
Victoria Bryant State Park - Royston
Grab a blanket and meet in the field behind the park office to watch a dog-themed movie classic. $5 parking. 706-245-6270.
Primitive Tools and Weapons
September 19
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site - Cartersville
What is the difference between a tool and a weapon? This program requires pre-registration. Space is limited to 18 people and social distancing will be required. $2-$6 plus $5 parking. 770-387-3747.
Kids Fishing Rodeo
September 19
Mistletoe State Park - Appling
The park has stocked a special portion of the lake with thousands of catfish for this fishing rodeo. It’s a great way for new anglers to catch their first fish. Only children 16 and younger may fish. $5 parking. 706-541-0321.
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