Exploring Georgia's many waterfalls is a great way to stay cool during summer. At 729 feet, Amicalola Falls (pictured) is the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast. For a good old-fashioned swimming hole, travel to Tallulah Gorge. Those who arrive early enough to score a permit can spend the day at Sliding Rock. The Marble Mine Trail at James H. Floyd takes you to a small waterfall and pretty, blue-green reflection pool. Park visitors can discover more of these wonders at Fort Mountain, Black Rock Mountain, High Falls, Smithgall Woods and Vogel state parks. Anna Ruby Falls is located just outside Unicoi State Park, and Hemlock Falls is just a short trip from Moccasin Creek State Park.
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Do jingling car keys get your dog’s tail wagging? If you’re like many travelers, you want to share summer adventures with your four-legged best friends. Georgia’s State Parks welcome dogs in campgrounds, most hiking trails, select cottages and even the dog park at Laura S. Walker State Park in Waycross. Park rangers lead occasional pet-friendly hikes as well. Check out ways to enjoy the dog days of summer – especially during the slower season -- with your furry friends. Just remember to keep your pup safe, on leash, cool and well hydrated. (How cute is this photo by warren_wanderings?! Tag #GaStateParks on Instagram for a chance to be featured.)
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Beginners and experts can channel their inner Katniss at several archery ranges across Georgia. State Parks offer two types: traditional static ranges where you shoot into “bow butt” targets, and realistic targets such as deer and turkey. Archers bring their own equipment; however, many state parks offer classes supplying all the equipment you’ll need. Some classes are even open to kids as young as 10. Ready to give archery a try? Learn more about the ranges in Georgia’s State Parks and Wildlife Management Areas.
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Ready for a water-soaked challenge? Cool off this summer and take on a quest by joining our Park Paddlers Club. For just $20, you'll get an official club shirt to wear as you explore a checklist of waterways and lakes including Panola Mountain, Tugaloo, Seminole, Kolomoki Mounds and Jack Hill state parks. When you paddle 12 of 32 participating locations, you'll receive a certificate of completion and bragging rights. Georgia's State Parks offer similar quests for mountain biking, hiking and even dog walking.
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Join park rangers for a variety of programs all across Georgia's State Parks and Historic Sites. Below is just a sample, so check our event calendar for more guided hikes, historic home tours, campfire s’mores, birding, wildlife programs and more.
Archery for All Skill Levels
Saturday, August 14, 8 AM to 12 PM
F.D. Roosevelt State Park - Pine Mountain
Archery target shooting adventure for ages 10 to adult. We provide basic instruction, equipment and prizes. Limited attendance of 12 per time slot. Groups can contact us for their own timeslot. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-663-4858.
Escape Room at Meeks Cabin
Saturdays in August, 2:30 or 3:30 PM
General Coffee State Park - Nicholls
Test your skills in this unique escape room located in a 200-year-old cabin. $5 plus $5 parking. 912-384-7082.
Night Hike and Scorpion Hunt
Friday and Saturday, August 20 and 21, 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park - Rutledge
We're heading into the night to learn about the things that we can't normally see. We'll look for scorpions, millipedes and centipedes by using UV lights. Meet at the park office to walk along an easy/moderate 1-mile trail. Program suitable for kids 6 and older. Bring a flashlight, bug repellent and wear sturdy shoes; we’ll provide the black lights. Pre-registration required. $5 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.
Afternoon Kayak
Friday, August 20, 5 PM to 7 PM
Laura S. Walker State Park – Waycross
Join our naturalist for an afternoon tour of the lake. Limit 8 guests; ages 12 and older; must be able to swim. Pre-register at Visitor Center. $15 includes kayak rental, or $10 with your equipment. $5 parking. 912-287-4900.
Primitive Native American Tools and Weapons
Saturday, August 28, 10 AM to 11 AM
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site - Cartersville
What is the difference between a tool and a weapon? Join us at our amphitheater to find out. Space is limited to 18 people and social distancing will be required. $2-$6. 770-387-3747.
International Bat Day
Saturday, Aug 28, 10 AM and 2 PM
Fort King George Historic Site - Darien
This annual celebration of bats takes place all over the world and helps raise awareness of bats within our communities. To discover more about bats, join our naturalist in all sorts of craft activities, such as building your own mini bat cave diorama to take home and show to your family. $2 plus site admission. 912-437-4770.
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