We Bet You Didn't Know These Rural Georgia Destinations Even Existed
By Lisa Sammons|Published September 06, 2023
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Lisa Sammons
Author
Lisa loves animals and has dogs, rats, cats, guinea pigs, and snakes. She is passionate about animal rescue and live music - traveling across the country to see a favorite band is a pretty regular occurrence! Being out hiking in the woods enjoying the scenery with her beloved dogs is another favorite hobby, and also checking out the Pokemon Go scene in whatever city she happens to be in at any given time (coffee and dog leash in hand). You can reach Lisa at lsammons@onlyinyourstate.com
The city life in Georgia is great, and it’s no secret that you can find great attractions, restaurants, parks, and more in our larger metropolitan areas. However, there’s also a great deal of rural land in the Peach State. Our farmland and mountains make up a large portion of the state. Ignoring all the great rural attractions in Georgia would be a mistake, as you’d be missing out on quite a lot! Here are some of our favorite destinations in the less-populated areas of the state:
1. Camp Lawton in Magnolia Springs State Park: Jenkins County
Magnolia Springs State Park, 1053 Magnolia Springs Rd, Millen, GA 30442, USA
You've likely heard of Magnolia Springs State Park. While it's not among the most popular parks in the state, it attracts many visitors to the tiny town of Millen each year. However, not everyone knows that hiding within the park is Camp Lawton. This 42-acre prison camp was built during the Civil War to assist with overcrowding at Andersonville. The prison held over 10,000 inmates in the two months that it was open before Sherman's March to the Sea. While the prison itself is now the ground that comprises most of the state park, you can still see the earthen fort that guarded the camp. Some of the artifacts that have been excavated from the site are now on view at the park's History Center.
2. Peach World: Townsend
Georgia Peach World, 2081 GA-57, Townsend, GA 31331, USA
If you've ever driven down I-95, you may have spotted Georgia Peach World in Townsend. There's also a second location in Richmond Hill. It's a shop that specializes in locally-grown goodies, with a heavy focus on the most famous Georgia products, like peaches, pecans, and peanuts. You can also pick up peach-themed souvenirs, which are great gifts for family members and friends living outside of the Peach State!
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3. Laurel and Hardy Museum at the Harlem Museum and Welcome Center: Harlem
The Harlem Museum and Welcome Center, Home of the Laurel & Hardy Museum, 135 N Louisville St, Harlem, GA 30814, USA
Did you know Oliver Hardy of Laurel and Hardy fame was born in Harlem, GA? You can find a wonderful little museum devoted to both this famous comedy duo and the town of Harlem at the Laurel and Hardy Museum, located within the Harlem Welcome Center. There are some great old artifacts here.
Looking to learn about the state's rich agricultural heritage? The Georgia Museum of Agriculture is an excellent place to visit. The museum is home to a recreated 19th-century village, an exhibit hall, and even has a working steam engine. It's a fascinating look back through history and one of the best museums in South Georgia.
Early County in the southwest portion of the state is not exactly a hotbed of tourist activity, but it is home to one of the most noteworthy covered bridges in Georgia. The 96-foot Coheelee Creek Covered Bridge is the southernmost original covered bridge in the United States. It was originally constructed in 1891 and is a great spot for a picnic by the creek.
6. Greensboro Antique Mall: Greensboro
Greensboro Antique Mall, 101 S Main St, Greensboro, GA 30642, USA
Greensboro is one of my favorite small towns in Georgia, and if you're interested in shopping, Greensboro Antique Mall is a must-visit. With 11,000 square feet of antiques and more than 50 vendors, there's a lot to see here, and plenty of bargains to be found.
7. Fainting Goats Vineyards & Winery: Jasper
Fainting Goat Vineyards, 201 Vineyard Wy, Jasper, GA 30143, USA
Georgia's wine industry is growing in leaps and bounds, and the little town of Jasper is a great spot to check out some vineyards. One of the most interesting is Fainting Goats Vineyard, a picturesque mountain winery that's an ideal place to kick back and relax.
Did we miss your favorite rural attractions in Georgia? Share your suggestions in the comments!
We know that some of these spots may be a bit of a drive for readers living in the city. If you’ve got to hit the road to hit up any of these spots, make sure you check out our Road Trip Essentials Packing List to be prepared for the journey ahead!
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