Your Ultimate Guide To State Parks In Georgia
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Jasmine Vieau
Author
Get ready for the ultimate adventure in Georgia’s outdoors with “Your Ultimate Guide to State Parks in Georgia.” Uncover the beauty of the Peach State’s best parks, from breathtaking landscapes to hidden gems. Whether you’re into waterfalls, historic sites, or mountain trails, my guide is your ticket to exploring Georgia’s diverse natural wonders. So, join me as we discover the best state parks in Georgia for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Most Popular State Parks In Georgia
Explore the most popular spots, with Tallulah Gorge and Cloudland Canyon as must-visit highlights. Known for their breathtaking scenery and diverse recreational options, these parks, from Tallulah’s striking canyons to Cloudland’s expansive landscapes, offer nature admirers and adventure seekers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Georgia’s outdoors.
1. Tallulah Gorge State Park
Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Rd, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573, USA
Tallulah Gorge State Park is a beautiful 2,689-acre park with impressive views of the Tallulah Gorge, a 1,000-foot-deep ravine carved by the Tallulah River. The park features six stunning waterfalls known as Tallulah Falls, which drop 500 feet over a mile.
There are two miles of canyon views, and visitors can hike rim trails or obtain a permit for a gorge floor adventure. The park also has a suspension bridge, historical towers, paved paths for strollers and bikes, and a challenging 10-mile trail for mountain bikers. There are so many things to do in Tallulah Gorge State Park!
2. Cloudland Canyon State Park
Cloudland Canyon State Park, 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA 30738, USA
Cloudland Canyon is a magnificent park on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, boasting a plethora of outdoor activities and natural wonders. From 1,000-foot-deep canyons and sandstone cliffs to waterfalls and dense woodlands - the park offers something for everyone.
Popular things to do in Cloudland Canyon include hiking, mountain biking, disc golf, fishing, and horseback riding. Accommodations range from fully-equipped cottages to quirky yurts and camping choices. Whether seeking adventure or a peaceful nature retreat, Cloudland Canyon is the perfect destination to explore and discover.
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Best State Parks In Georgia To Camp
Experience the best camping at Unicoi, F. D. Roosevelt, and Fort Yargo. Nestled in the North Georgia Mountains, Unicoi offers serene escapes, F. D. Roosevelt combines history with nature on 9,049 acres, and Fort Yargo blends outdoor recreation with historic charm. Whether you prefer mountain views or tons of recreational activities, these destinations promise an epic camping adventure in the great outdoors.
3. Unicoi State Park
Unicoi State Park & Lodge, 1788 GA-356, Helen, GA 30545, USA
Unicoi State Park & Lodge sounds like a fantastic place to visit! It's a serene mountain retreat located just two miles from Helen in the North Georgia Mountains. And it's situated around the beautiful Lake Unicoi in the Chattahoochee National Forest - bonus! I've heard that it's one of the best state parks in Georgia to visit in the fall because of the stunning bold leaf colors.
There seems to be no shortage of things to do in Unicoi State Park as well, such as hiking trails, fishing, paddleboarding, zip-lining, mountain biking, and beach lounging. With all these things to do, it seems like you could easily spend a week or more there!
I also know that Unicoi State Park & Lodge is the perfect place for a romantic getaway, family trip, or corporate event, with accommodations like guest rooms, cabins, and camping amenities. It seems like there's something for everyone at Unicoi State Park & Lodge!
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4. F.D. Roosevelt State Park
F.D. Roosevelt State Park, 2970 GA-190, Pine Mountain, GA 31822, USA
F. D. Roosevelt State Park, Georgia's largest state park, offers over 40 miles of trails that pass through picturesque forests, creeks, and waterfalls. The park also features several amenities built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, including cottages, the Liberty Bell swimming pool, and a wooded campground near a small fishing lake.
Visitors to F. D. Roosevelt State Park can really immerse themselves in nature by utilizing the camping facilities, which offer reservation options for established and backcountry tent sites. Whether you prefer a traditional overnight stay experience in a cabin or are a camping enthusiast, there are a wide range of options to suit your preferences and many things to do in F. D. Roosevelt State Park.
5. Fort Yargo State Park
Fort Yargo State Park, 210 S Broad St, Winder, GA 30680, USA
If you're looking for a great camping experience, One state park worth considering is Fort Yargo State Park, located between Atlanta and Athens. The park offers a range of camping options, including fully equipped cottages, cozy campsites, and unique lakeside "glamping" yurts.
In addition to camping, there are plenty of other things to do in Fort Yargo State Park. The park's 260-acre lake is perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating. There are also 20.5 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails and a challenging wooded disc golf course.
Best State Parks In Georgia To RV
Embark on an RV adventure with some of the best state parks. Vogel, nestled at Blood Mountain, boasts water features. Red Top Mountain on Lake Allatoona offers water activities and hiking. Stephen C. Foster is a gateway to Okefenokee Swamp, with unique RV camping. Crooked River, on Georgia’s Colonial Coast, is an RV haven with riverside views and maritime forests. These destinations promise memorable experiences and RV-friendly amenities.
6. Vogel State Park
Vogel State Park, 405 Vogel State Park Rd, Blairsville, GA 30512, USA
Vogel State Park, located at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest, is one of Georgia's first state parks, established in 1931. Developed significantly by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the 233-acre park features streams, a waterfall, and the serene Lake Trahlyta.
With an elevation of 2,500 feet, it stands as one of Georgia's highest-altitude state parks, surrounded by diverse landscapes. There are various things to do in Vogel State Park, including hiking trails like the Bear Hair Gap Trail and the challenging Coosa Backcountry Trail leading to Blood Mountain and the Appalachian Trail near Neel Gap.
Visitors can enjoy camping sites, cabins, swimming, boating, and more. Accommodations include tents, trailers, RV sites, walk-in campsites, and cottages, providing a well-rounded experience in the heart of nature. 95 camping sites are equipped with electrical hookups and water, making it an ideal campground for the RV camper.
7. Red Top Mountain State Park
Red Top Mountain State Park, 50 Lodge Rd SE, Acworth, GA 30102, USA
Red Top Mountain on Lake Allatoona is a fantastic destination for RV camping, swimming, water sports, fishing, hiking, and nature photography. The park features over 15 miles of trails, including a wheelchair and stroller-accessible paved trail with a reconstructed 1860s homestead.
Red Top Mountain also has a rich history as a mining hub, and visitors can learn more about it through historical tours of historic sites and iron pour programs. There are so many activities and things to do in Red Top Mountain State Park!
There are plenty of overnight options, too - rent one of the park's cottages, set up camp in the spacious campground, or stay in the lakeside yurt. There are 36 tent/trailer/RV sites and 52 walk-in campsites to choose from. So, pack up your RV, grab your fishing gear, and head to Red Top Mountain for a fun-filled getaway.
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8. Stephen C. Foster State Park
Stephen C Foster State Park, 17515 GA-177, Fargo, GA 31631, USA
If you're seeking a unique RV camping experience, Stephen C Foster State Park is a must-visit! Serving as a gateway to the breathtaking Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia's largest wetland and a natural wonder, this park offers a picturesque setting with black swamp waters reflecting Spanish moss-laden trees and cypress knees - a paradise for paddlers and photographers.
The camping options feature 64 tent sites, RV campsites, nine cottages, an interpretive center, a 1.5-mile Trembling Earth Nature Trail, 25 miles of day-use waterways, three picnic shelters, and a pioneer campground. Stargazers will be thrilled with the exceptionally dark skies.
It's worth mentioning that the Okefenokee Swamp is renowned for its American Alligator population, estimated at around 12,000! Ensure a safe distance - and remember, no pets in boats, even privately owned vessels. Explore the unique RV camping and other exciting things to do in Stephen C Foster State Park.
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9. Crooked River State Park
Crooked River State Park, 6222 Charlie Smith Sr Hwy, St Marys, GA 31558, USA
If you're looking for things to do in Crooked River State Park, you'll be happy to know that it's located near I-95 on Georgia’s Colonial Coast. This park is a haven for RV campers, surrounded by palmettos and moss-draped oaks. The RV campsites offer a tranquil setting, while cottages boast riverside views.
Anglers favor the popular boat ramp, and a short drive leads to the ferry for Cumberland Island National Seashore's secluded beaches and wild horses. Hikers can explore the nature trail, spot coastal wildlife in the nature center, and discover the nearby ruins of a tabby mill from the 1820s. For a coastal getaway, this park is a perfect retreat when camping in your RV.
Best State Parks In Georgia For Hiking
Georgia is known for its natural beauty, and its state parks are a testament to that. With a wide range of hiking trails, visitors can explore various landscapes, from waterfalls to canyons to mountain peaks. Among the numerous options, Amicalola Falls, Providence Canyon, and Black Rock Mountain stand out as some of the best for hiking. Each offers a remarkable experience and picturesque views, making them perfect destinations for hikers.
10. Amicalola Falls State Park
Amicalola Falls State Park, 418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd, Dawsonville, GA 30534, USA
If you're on the hunt for things to do in Amicalola Falls State Park, you're in for a treat. Nestled on the brink of the North Georgia Mountains, this state park and lodge is a haven for hikers, just eight miles from the Appalachian Trail. The park's crown jewel is the magnificent Amicalola Falls, a 729-foot cascade, the third-highest east of the Mississippi.
The lodge offers breathtaking views, serves as a starting point for Appalachian Trail hikers, and provides comfortable accommodations. With an Adventure Lodge ethos, it caters to thrill-seekers with zip-lining and naturalists with guided hikes and bird shows. A true gem for hiking enthusiasts, Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge blends adventure and natural beauty in Georgia's scenic landscape.
11. Providence Canyon State Park
Providence Canyon State Park, 8930 Canyon Rd, Lumpkin, GA 31815, USA
The "Little Grand Canyon" in Georgia is a stunning result of human impact on the land, with deep gullies up to 150 feet deep. But today, it's a hiker's paradise, offering picturesque views and the rare Plumleaf Azalea, which blooms in July and August.
You can explore things to do in Providence Canyon State Park by checking out the canyons along the rim trail or venture deeper into the canyons. If you're up for a challenge, consider joining the Canyon Climbers Club and hiking to canyons four and five. Backpackers can camp overnight along the backcountry trail that winds through the mixed forest.
12. Black Rock Mountain State Park
Black Rock Mountain State Park, 3085 Black Rock Mountain Pkwy, Mountain City, GA 30562, USA
In the heart of Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains, Black Rock Mountain State Park is a 1,743-acre haven with an elevation of 3,640 feet, standing as the state's highest park, offering breathtaking 80-mile vistas and scenic overlooks across four states.
There are lots of things to do in Black Rock Mountain State Park. The park features five hiking trails that wind through lush forests, along mountain streams, and around the serene Black Rock Lake. From the challenging 2.2-mile Tennessee Rock Trail, offering vistas into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to the quarter-mile Ada-Hi Falls Trail leading to a cascade in a mountain cove - each trail unveils unique natural wonders.
Little-Known State Parks In Georgia
Explore Georgia’s hidden treasures at Sweetwater Creek, Skidaway Island, and Fort Mountain. These lesser-known gems promise unique experiences away from the crowds. From historic ruins to scenic trails and ancient rock walls, discover the quieter side of outdoor adventure in the Peach State.
13. Sweetwater Creek State Park
Sweetwater Creek State Park, 1750 Mt Vernon Rd, Lithia Springs, GA 30122, USA
Have you heard of Sweetwater Creek State Park? It's a hidden gem located just a short drive from downtown Atlanta. It's the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature. You can hike through the woods to explore the remnants of the Civil War-era New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a textile mill along the stream. And if you're up for it, climb the rocky bluffs for breathtaking views of the rapids.
There are also plenty of other trails and things to do in Sweetwater Creek State Park, where you can spot some ferns, magnolias, and wild azaleas along your trek. If you're interested in fishing, you can check out the 215-acre George Sparks Reservoir, and in warmer months, you can rent boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can even join the Park Paddlers Club and explore waterways in six state parks. And if you want to learn more about the park, be sure to stop by the Visitor Center. It's an eco-friendly gem that features history exhibits, wildlife displays, and more.
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14. Skidaway Island State Park
Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah, GA 31411, USA
This park is located near the charming city of Savannah and borders Georgia's Intracoastal Waterway. It's a great place to hike through the maritime forest and salt marsh, where you can spot a variety of wildlife like deer, fiddler crabs, raccoons, and egrets.
There are other things to do in Skidaway Island State Park, like camping. The park has a beautiful campground nestled under live oaks and Spanish moss, with RV sites that have sewer hookups. There are also designated pioneer campgrounds, yurts, and camper cabins for those who want some privacy.
15. Fort Mountain State Park
Fort Mountain State Park, 181 Fort Mountain State Park Rd, Chatsworth, GA 30705, USA
Have you been to Fort Mountain State Park? It's been around since 1938 and spans over 3,700 acres in the Chattahoochee National Forest. This place is fantastic! It's named after a super old 885-foot-long rock wall and has tons of outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding with over 25 miles of trails.
And the landscape is stunning! You'll see a mix of hardwood and pine forests, blueberry thickets, waterfalls, and a 17-acre mountain lake. Plus, at the summit, there's a tower built by the CCC, giving you an incredible panoramic view. There is something for everyone and plenty of things to do in Fort Mountain State Park.
So, how many state parks are in Georgia? With 47 state parks, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the Peach State, and this list has the cream of the crop!
Have you been to any of these nature spots? Which are your favorite? Let me know! And if you’re missing some important gear, check out these awesome outdoor gear options!
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