Some of north Georgia’s most beloved state parks are making improvements to their campgrounds and cottages. Vogel, Cloudland Canyon and Red Top Mountain are in the process of adding some full hookups, utility upgrades, more RV pull-throughs and improved roadways. Black Rock Mountain just completed gorgeous renovations on mountaintop cottages (shown in photo), and Tugaloo is beginning construction on lakeside cottages. Check GaStateParks.org for updates on these and even more renovations across the state.

Take a break from the “wild life” of crowded destinations and migrate toward the “wildlife” of Georgia’s State Parks. Your family might spot a gopher tortoise on hiking trails, bald eagles soaring over lakes, or observant owls near your campsite. Stay in a cabin and enjoy geocaching, mini-golf, kayaking, ranger programs and more right outside your door. Our Canyon Climbers Club, Muddy Spokes Club and Tails on Trails Club are perfect for those who enjoy a challenge. Find your spring adventure on GaStateParks.org.

Explorers on a mission to visit all of Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites have a new way of tracking their travels. The Friends of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites has produced a keepsake passport that allows you to document your journey while exploring mountains to marshes. Inside, you’ll find photos and descriptions of more than 60 destinations, from Amicalola Falls to Wormsloe. With each flip of a page, you’ll have space to note “My Favorite Thing” and add a sticker to seal your memory. Passports are available in site gift shops, metro-Atlanta REI stores and through the Friends website.

Our new hats, t-shirts and patches let you proudly show your support for Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites. You can do a little armchair shopping on GaStateParks.org/retail – or better yet, stop by our gift shops after a day of hiking, fishing or geocaching. Annual passes to state parks and historic sites are available online as well. Proceeds help protect Georgia’s most precious places.

Do you know a teen who is interested in working in the great outdoors? The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has a new program aimed at encouraging high school students to explore careers in conservation. The Georgia DNR Career Academy will be held July 17-23 at Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center in Mansfield and Georgia 4-H at Camp Jekyll on Jekyll Island. High school students will have the opportunity to learn about DNR career paths and visit state parks, wildlife management areas, hatcheries and the coast.