It’s not too late to enjoy leaf watching when you seek out middle Georgia’s hidden gems. In late autumn, the cypress needles at George L. Smith State Park turn deep orange and reflect off the dark mill-pond water. Close to Atlanta, High Falls and Hard Labor Creek state parks still have some turning leaves, and F.D. Roosevelt State Park is a good choice for long-distance hikers. For the most solitude on trails, visit these “Hidden Gems” during late autumn, and use our Leaf Watch Travel Planner to find more escapes.

On the southern tip of Georgia’s Colonial Coast sits the perfect park for exploring salt marsh, a tidal river and maritime forest. At Crooked River State Park in St. Marys, guests can stay in campsites under Spanish moss or cottages with sunrise views. A boat ramp and bait shop are available for anglers who often take to the water early in the morning. Take a stroll on the nature trail to look for gopher tortoises, fiddler crabs, herons and sometimes even alligators.

To say thank you to our men and women of service, we’re inviting all military to a day of free golf. On Wednesday, November 11, military can play 18 holes for no charge at eight beautiful courses across the state. Golfers must call ahead for tee times, mention this discount and show proof of service. This deal is valid for all U.S. veterans, active duty, reserve military and National Guard with valid military ID. Find details and more deals on GaStateParks.org/Specials.

November is Native American Heritage Month, so we invite you to celebrate the culture of native people. More than 1,000 years ago, vibrant civilizations thrived across the Southeast. Their earthen mounds and legacy remain at Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site in Cartersville and Kolomoki Mounds State Park in Blakely. Later, in the early 1800s, the Cherokee Nation established its central government in north Georgia. New Echota Historic Site near Calhoun showcases this capital through original and reconstructed buildings, and nearby Chief Vann House Historic Site features a stunning 1804 home.

We’ll help you stuff mountains, lakes and cabins into one little stocking. With our online gift cards, you can do your holiday shopping from home while also sharing wide open spaces with those you love. Georgia State Park gift cards can be used for camping, cabins, historic site admission, golf green fees, gift shop items and dozens of other treats.