I find it special that beyond the peaches and porches, Georgia’s state parks are full of wonder. I love how this state blends mountain trails, sandy shores, and storybook forests into family getaways full of exploration and joy. I look forward to days that start with misty hikes and end with marshmallow roasts beside a lake.
To me, Georgia state parks mean hiking past waterfalls and over swinging bridges at Tallulah Gorge State Park, swimming and paddling under the pines at Fort Yargo State Park, and hunting for fossils along the riverbank at Providence Canyon State Park—Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon.” We always bring bikes to Skidaway Island State Park, where salt marsh trails wind beneath Spanish moss, and Amicalola Falls State Park is a must for climbing stairs beside the state’s tallest waterfall. Cloudland Canyon offers jaw-dropping overlooks and caves to explore, while Kolomoki Mounds State Park gives us a hands-on walk through ancient history. From the mountains of North Georgia to the coastal trails of the south, Georgia’s parks bring together peace, play, and the great outdoors in every season.
"Canyons, creeks, and cottonwood trees? This is Georgia with kids!"
Best State Parks in Georgia, USA
1. A.H. Stephens Historic State Park
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Location:
Crawfordville, GAHighlights:
If you’re craving a step back into Georgia’s Civil War history, A.H. Stephens Historic State Park is a hidden gem we’d absolutely suggest. It’s a peaceful escape where history buffs and outdoor lovers can both feel right at home.Recommended For:
History enthusiasts, families, equestrians, and anyone looking to explore Georgia’s past while enjoying the outdoors.What I Love: ♥
The meticulously preserved Liberty Hall, rich Civil War artifact collection, scenic bridle trails, and the peaceful fishing spots on the old mill ponds.- Explore one of Georgia’s finest Civil War collections inside the Confederate museum, featuring rare artifacts and exhibits on Alexander H. Stephens' life and role in the Confederacy.
- Tour Liberty Hall, Stephens' stately 1834 home, restored to its 19th-century glory complete with original furnishings, his personal library, and family gravesite.
- Ride more than 21 miles of scenic bridle trails, with equestrian-friendly campsites perfect for overnight horseback adventures.
- Fish & Boat on several preserved mill ponds offering tranquil spots for fishing and small boat exploration.
Distance from Augusta:
Expect the drive to take about 1 hour via I-20 West.How to Get to A.H. Stephens Historic State Park:
From Augusta, take I-20 West to Exit 148 for GA-22 toward Crawfordville. Turn right onto GA-22 and continue into town, then follow signs to the park entrance.Address:
456 Alexander Street NW, Crawfordville, GA 30631Phone: 706-456-2602
2. Black Rock Mountain State Park
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Location:
Mountain City, GAHighlights:
If you’re itching for jaw-dropping mountain views without leaving Georgia, Black Rock Mountain State Park is one of those places we’d tell a friend not to miss. It’s the state’s highest-elevation park, packed with rugged trails, sweeping overlooks, and peaceful fishing spots.Recommended For:
Hikers, photographers, nature lovers, families, and anyone chasing epic Blue Ridge Mountain views.What I Love: ♥
The panoramic views from the park’s scenic overlooks, the peaceful fishing at Black Rock Lake, and the chance to hike to Tennessee Rock for unforgettable photo ops.- Hike five unique trails, including the 2.2-mile Tennessee Rock Trail, leading to panoramic views stretching into Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
- Fish for rainbow trout, catfish, bass, bream, and yellow perch at the tranquil Black Rock Lake, with access from the Turtle Rock Fishing Pier.
- Learn at the Marie Mellinger Center, offering nature programs, guided hikes, and seasonal country music concerts.
- Note the park is seasonally closed from mid-December to mid-March, so plan your visit accordingly.
Distance from Atlanta:
Expect the drive to take around 2 hours and 15 minutes.How to Get to Black Rock Mountain State Park:
Take I-85 North to I-985, which turns into US-23 North toward Clayton. In Mountain City, follow Black Rock Mountain Parkway to the park entrance.Address:
3085 Black Rock Mountain Parkway, Mountain City, Georgia 30562Phone: 706-746-2141
3. Cloudland Canyon State Park
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Location:
Rising Fawn, GAHighlights:
Looking for jaw-dropping canyon views without leaving Georgia? Cloudland Canyon State Park is one of those epic places we always tell friends to add to their road trip list—perfect for hiking, waterfalls, and outdoor fun.Recommended For:
Hikers, families, photographers, mountain bikers, and outdoor lovers of all kinds.What I Love: ♥
The dramatic West Rim Loop Trail vistas, the dreamy waterfalls along Daniel Creek, and the range of outdoor activities from disc golf to caving adventures.- Hike the 4.8-mile West Rim Loop Trail for stunning canyon and mountain overlooks or explore the Waterfalls Trail to see Cherokee and Hemlock Falls up close.
- Bike scenic trails that wind through the park’s forested landscapes and rugged ridgelines.
- Play a round on the 18-hole disc golf course or take part in the Kids' Catfish Rodeo during the park’s spring festivities.
- Stay overnight at the park’s tent and RV sites, backcountry campsites, or cozy rental cottages nestled inside the park.
- Explore seasonal show caves and enjoy horseback riding trails for a different perspective of the park’s vast wilderness.
Distance from Atlanta:
Expect the drive to take around 2 hours and 15 minutes northwest via I-75 and GA-136.How to Get to Cloudland Canyon State Park:
From Atlanta, take I-75 North to Exit 320 (GA-136), then head west following signs to the park entrance in Rising Fawn.Address:
122 Cloudland Canyon Park Road, Rising Fawn, GA 30738Phone: 706-657-4050
4. Cumberland Island National Seashore
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Location:
St. Marys, GA (via ferry to Cumberland Island)Highlights:
Want to escape to Georgia’s wild, untouched coastline? Cumberland Island National Seashore is the kind of off-the-grid getaway we always recommend to friends—it’s remote, breathtaking, and full of wild horses, sandy dunes, and rich history.Recommended For:
Adventurous couples, nature lovers, history buffs, campers, and anyone seeking a secluded, serene coastal experience.What I Love: ♥
The untouched beaches, fascinating Carnegie-era ruins, the chance to spot wild horses roaming free, and the quiet beauty of the Cumberland Island Wilderness.- Explore the island’s sand dunes, salt marshes, freshwater lakes, and the expansive 9,886-acre designated wilderness area.
- Visit the historic Carnegie family sites, including the haunting Dungeness Ruins and charming Plum Orchard Mansion.
- Bike the island trails—bring your own or rent from Sea Camp Dock once you arrive.
- Camp overnight at designated public campsites, offering everything from primitive backcountry spots to areas with restrooms and facilities.
- Learn about the island’s layered human history at the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum back in St. Marys.
- Important: The island is only accessible by ferry from St. Marys. Advance reservations are highly recommended.
Distance from Savannah:
Expect the drive to St. Marys to take about 1 hour and 40 minutes south via I-95.How to Get to Cumberland Island National Seashore:
Drive to the Cumberland Island Visitor Center in St. Marys, GA, and take the passenger ferry to the island. Make sure to reserve your ferry tickets in advance at the official website.Address:
Plum Orchard Dr, St Marys, GA 31558Phone: 912-882-4336
5. Don Carter State Park
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Location:
Gainesville, GAHighlights:
If you’re looking for an easy lakeside getaway close to Atlanta, Don Carter State Park is one of those places we love recommending—it’s got beaches, trails, and plenty of ways to cool off on Lake Lanier.Recommended For:
Families, paddlers, hikers, metro Atlanta residents seeking a summer escape, and anyone who loves lake life.What I Love: ♥
The big sandy swimming beach, scenic multi-use trails, and easy access to both Lake Lanier and the Chattahoochee River for kayaking and fishing.- Swim at the park’s large seasonal swimming beach, complete with bathhouse facilities for easy family outings.
- Launch your boat or kayak from ramps into Lake Lanier or the Chattahoochee River, perfect for paddling and fishing adventures.
- Explore 12.5 miles of multi-use trails open to hikers, bikers, and equestrians, winding through peaceful hardwood forests.
- Stay overnight at the lakeside campground or cozy up in one of the park’s rental cabins.
- Play at the children’s playground or use the outdoor fitness equipment for an active day in the fresh air.
Distance from Atlanta:
Expect the drive to take about 1 hour and 15 minutes northeast via I-85 and GA-369.How to Get to Don Carter State Park:
Take I-85 North to I-985 toward Gainesville, then follow GA-369 East to North Browning Bridge Road and the park entrance.Address:
5000 North Browning Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30506Phone: 678-450-7726
6. Elijah Clark State Park
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Location:
Lincolnton, GAHighlights:
Looking for a peaceful lake escape with a side of Georgia history? Elijah Clark State Park is one of those easy-going spots we always recommend for boating, fishing, and soaking up Revolutionary War stories by the water.Recommended For:
Families, anglers, history lovers, campers, and those seeking a relaxed freshwater retreat.What I Love: ♥
The authentic reconstructed log cabin, shady lakeside campsites, and the park’s family-friendly touches like mini golf and the annual Bluegrass Festival.- Tour Elijah Clarke’s historic log cabin, preserved with authentic 18th-century furnishings and tools, and visit his and his wife Hannah’s gravesites.
- Swim at the park’s seasonal sandy beach, with a bathhouse and picnic areas for summer fun.
- Fish & Boat on Lake Strom Thurmond, one of Georgia’s top spots for freshwater fishing and water recreation.
- Stay at one of 160 tent and RV campsites, 20 rental cottages, or two group camping areas.
- Play a round of mini golf, let kids run free at the playground, or relax in one of the park’s scenic picnic shelters.
- Join the city’s annual Bluegrass Festival every May for live music, food, and lakeside fun.
Distance from Augusta:
Expect the drive to take about 45 minutes north via US-221.How to Get to Elijah Clark State Park:
From Augusta, take US-221 North to Lincolnton, then follow McCormick Highway east to the park entrance on the shores of Lake Strom Thurmond.Address:
2959 McCormick Highway, Lincolnton, GA 30817Phone: 706-359-3458
7. Fort Mountain State Park
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Location:
Chatsworth, GAHighlights:
Up for a scenic mountain adventure with a side of ancient mystery? Fort Mountain State Park is a favorite for its beautiful trails, lush forests, and the intriguing stone wall built by early Indigenous people.Recommended For:
Families, hikers, mountain bikers, history buffs, and outdoor explorers looking for a peaceful mountain escape.What I Love: ♥
The 885-foot stone wall’s mysterious past, miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and the quiet beauty of the blueberry-filled forests.- Discover the park’s famous 885-foot zigzagging rock wall, a fascinating remnant of the area’s Indigenous past tied to Cherokee legends.
- Explore over 60 miles of scenic trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding through the Cohutta Mountains’ diverse landscapes.
- Enjoy the serene hardwood and pine forests, dotted with wildflowers and lush blueberry thickets—perfect for a peaceful nature walk or family picnic.
- Connect with the area’s rich Cherokee history and take in panoramic views from scenic overlooks throughout the park.
Distance from Atlanta:
Expect the drive to take about 1 hour and 45 minutes north via I-75 and US-411.How to Get to Fort Mountain State Park:
From Atlanta, take I-75 North to Exit 293 (US-411) toward Chatsworth. Continue through Chatsworth and follow the signs to the park entrance on Fort Mountain Park Road.Address:
181 Fort Mountain Park Road, Chatsworth, GA 30705Phone: 706-422-1932
8. George L. Smith State Park
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Location:
Twin City, GAHighlights:
If you’re into peaceful paddling adventures with a side of Southern history, George L. Smith State Park is the kind of hidden gem we’d tell any friend about—think glassy mill ponds, cypress trees, and old-time charm.Recommended For:
Paddlers, birdwatchers, history lovers, and anyone craving a tranquil off-the-beaten-path getaway in Georgia’s heartland.What I Love: ♥
The serene cypress-dotted mill pond, the historic Parrish Mill, and the incredible birdwatching along the park’s quiet trails.- Paddle the 412-acre mill pond, with three scenic paddling trails perfect for canoeing and kayaking adventures among towering cypress trees.
- Visit the restored Parrish Mill, combining an 1889 gristmill, sawmill, dam, and covered bridge into a charming living history exhibit.
- Explore more than seven miles of nature trails through protected tortoise habitats and bird sanctuaries—keep an eye out for white ibis and great blue herons.
- Fish the peaceful mill pond, a favorite among local anglers for its calm waters and scenic beauty.
Distance from Savannah:
Expect the drive to take about 1 hour and 45 minutes west via I-16.How to Get to George L. Smith State Park:
Take I-16 West to Exit 98 (GA-57) toward Swainsboro, then follow signs for Twin City and the park entrance on George L. Smith State Park Road.Address:
371 George L. Smith State Park Road, Twin City, GA 30471Phone: 478-763-2759
9. George T. Bagby State Park
© George T. Bagby State Park
Location:
Fort Gaines, GAHighlights:
Looking for a peaceful lakeside lodge with golf, dining, and all the Southern charm? George T. Bagby State Park and Lodge is one of those quiet Georgia escapes we always recommend for a laid-back weekend by the water.Recommended For:
Couples, golfers, boaters, families, and anyone looking for a relaxing retreat on Georgia’s western lakeshore.What I Love: ♥
The cozy lakeside lodge, award-winning Meadow Links Golf Course, and the beautiful marina on Walter F. George Lake.- Stay overnight at the 60-room lakeside lodge or choose from charming rental cottages and cabins for a private retreat feel.
- Dine at the Pilot House Grille, serving up Southern-style meals daily with scenic lake views.
- Play a round at the acclaimed Meadow Links Golf Course, praised by Golf Digest as one of America’s best affordable courses.
- Launch your boat from the park’s full-service marina and explore the expansive 48,000-acre Walter F. George Lake.
- Relax on the private swimming beach or stroll along the park’s scenic three-mile nature trail.
Distance from Atlanta:
Expect the drive to take about 2 hours and 45 minutes southwest via I-85 and US-431.How to Get to George T. Bagby State Park and Lodge:
Take I-85 South to US-431, then head south through Eufaula, AL. Cross into Georgia at Fort Gaines and follow signs to Bagby Parkway and the park entrance.Address:
330 Bagby Pkwy, Fort Gaines, GA 39851Phone: 229-768-2571
10. Hamburg State Park
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Location:
Mitchell, GAHighlights:
Looking for a peaceful fishing spot with a touch of old Georgia charm? Hamburg State Park is one of those sweet, quiet places we love to recommend for a lakeside day or simple overnight escape.Recommended For:
Anglers, campers, history lovers, and anyone looking for a low-key getaway in Georgia’s countryside.What I Love: ♥
The working 1921 gristmill, great fishing on Hamburg Lake, and the park’s vintage museum packed with rural farm life artifacts.- Fish for crappie, bream, and largemouth bass in the scenic 225-acre Hamburg Lake and along the Little Ogeechee River.
- See the 1921 water-powered gristmill in action during special events and explore the small museum featuring historic farming tools and rural artifacts.
- Stay at the quiet, shady campground offering 32 tent and RV campsites, plus day-use picnic spots and group shelters for family gatherings.
Distance from Augusta:
Expect the drive to take about 1 hour west via US-78 and GA-17.How to Get to Hamburg State Park:
From Augusta, take US-78 West to GA-17 South, then follow signs to Mitchell and Hamburg State Park Road.Address:
6071 Hamburg State Park Road, Mitchell, GA 30820Phone: 478-552-2393
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Q: What are Georgia's Seven Natural Wonders?
- A: Several of Georgia's parks preserve attractions known as the state's Seven Natural Wonders, including the picturesque Okefenokee Swamp, the impressive Tallulah Gorge, and Providence Canyon.
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Q: What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Georgia's parks?
- A: Excellent fishing opportunities abound throughout the mountain lakes and manmade reservoirs, while hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails provide unique vantage points to observe the scenery.
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Q: What scenic regions can visitors explore in Georgia?
- A: Visitors can explore the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain regions, which offer breathtaking views and numerous outdoor activities.
Best Time to Visit Georgia State Parks
- March to May – Mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and ideal for hiking and camping.
- September to November – Cooler weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant fall foliage.
- June to August – Warm and humid, perfect for swimming, boating, and water activities.
- December to February – Mild winters, great for peaceful nature walks and birdwatching.
- Late October – Prime time for stunning autumn colors and crisp hiking weather.
Map:
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