It’s fall, y’all! “Leaf Season” Is just around the corner, and our Leaf Watch Travel Planner is filled with tips to help you find top parks for fall color, campsites, cabins and more. Only Mother Nature knows when leaves will peak, but the most vibrant color is usually the end of October into early November. Now’s the time to make reservations so you’ll be right in the middle of the best scenery. We even have videos on campfire cooking. (Mmmmm, campfire pizza!) Tag your best fall photos with #GaLeafWatch and #GaStateParks for a chance to be featured.

We are so proud of our rangers! Several Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites were honored recently during a conference at Unicoi State Park. Managers attended an awards ceremony celebrating those who make more than 60 State Parks and Historic Sites outstanding destinations across Georgia. They also attended training sessions and shared ideas on park operations. Join us in congratulating these outstanding sites and managers, and learn more about their awards on GaStateParks.org.

Manager-of-the-Year: Jessica James-Weems from Black Rock Mountain
Park Ranger Bravery Award: Mikayla Murphy of Providence Canyon
Most Outstanding Site Operation: Cloudland Canyon State Park, Trenton
Natural Resources Enhancement Award: Reed Bingham State Park, Adel
Best Year-Round Programming Award: General Coffee State Park, Nichols
Cultural Resource Enhancement Award: Roosevelt’s Little White House Historic Site, Warm Springs
Customer Service Award: Michael Collier, Elijah Clark State Park, Lincolnton
Outstanding Golf Course of the Year Award: Highland Walk at Victoria Bryant State Park, Royston
Retail Award: Mistletoe State Park, Appling

Photo: DNR Commissioner Mark Williams, Black Rock Mountain State Park Manager Jessica James-Weems, and State Parks Director Jeff Cown.

Cooler weather and pretty leaves mean fall is the perfect time to get out and explore Georgia. Several state parks and historic sites have planned festivals, guided hikes, reenactments and more this month. Choose from the Battle of Allatoona Pass on October 2, Kolomoki Festival on October 9, Zombie Archery on October 16 and so much more. Find events on GaStateParks.org. You can also keep up with the latest happenings on Facebook.

Autumn nights are perfect for snuggling under blankets and cozying up to campfires. Our online gift shop features not just blankets, but also hiking stick medallions, patches, Canyon Climbers Club memberships, historic site passes, annual ParkPasses and much more. We’ll help you find the perfect souvenir, birthday gift or holiday stocking stuffers. GaStateParks.org