Outdoorsy families will find plenty of ways to celebrate Mother’s Day in Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites. On Sunday, May 9, pack a picnic and make a day of memories. State parks have picnic shelters for families of all sizes, plus beautiful scenery, fresh air and plenty of adventure. Look for wildlife from the boardwalk at Magnolia Springs. Cast a line at Seminole. Or climb to the top of an ancient mound at Kolomoki Mounds. Want something special for Mom to unwrap? You’ll find gift cards, annual passes, hiking stick medallions, patches, souvenirs and more on GaStateParks.org.

A beautiful 6,300-square-foot building is now the first stop for those enjoying one of Georgia’s most popular state parks, Skidaway Island. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the maritime forest and marsh, and guests can enjoy birding from a screened porch. Towering 20 feet high is a giant ground sloth skeleton, a replica of an ancient fossil found within the park in 1822. Nature exhibits include turtles and snakes, and a gift shop is filled with souvenirs, toys, books, camping supplies and more. The public is invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. on May 13.

State parks make it easy for families to gather safely, enjoying cool breezes and warm hugs. Choose from open-air picnic shelters or enclosed group shelters with plenty of space to spread out. Most have nearby grills or large kitchens, perfect for Pop’s famous barbecue. Everyone can stay overnight in fully equipped cabins, hotel-style lodge rooms, modern campsites or “glamping” yurts. Planning something extra special? Check out Idlewilde Event Center, centrally located at Indian Springs State Park. Your long-awaited family gathering is sure to be a hit when surrounded with fishing lakes, mini-golf, nature trails and more.

Skipping the gym but missing your workout? Some state parks offer outdoor fitness equipment for health-conscious visitors. Stations such as butterfly press and chest press let you work your muscles while enjoying park scenery in the great outdoors. Some fitness stations are wheelchair accessible as well. Check out free fitness equipment at Panola Mountain, Jack Hill, Sweetwater Creek, F.D. Roosevelt, Don Carter, Skidaway Island and Fort McAllister state parks.