Unveiling Georgia State Parks Hidden Gems
Georgia State Parks offer unique experiences including these hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These 11 lesser-known parks promise beautiful scenery, diverse activities, and a chance to escape the crowds.
Escape to Fort Mountain State Park
Craving mountain views, outdoor adventures, and lakeside relaxation? Fort Mountain State Park in Georgia offers it all. Hike the backcountry Gahuti Trail, tackle mountain bike trails, soak up the sun by the lake, or horseback ride through stunning scenery. You can even journey to a mysterious rock wall and look for the romantic “heart stone” in a CCC-built fire tower. Rent cottages or campsites for a fun-filled getaway.
Golf and Fish at Hard Labor Creek State Park
Just an hour from Atlanta, Hard Labor Creek State Park has activities for everyone. The Creek Golf Course offers exceptional play with affordable rates, and a pretty lake welcomes you with swimming, fishing, or boating. Hike or bike over 24 miles of trails, then relax in a cozy cabin with Wi-Fi or toast s’mores in the modern campground.
Relax at Chattahoochee Bend State Park
An hour from Atlanta, Chattahoochee Bend State Park offers scenic beauty and outdoor adventures. Pitch a tent on a riverside platform, set up your RV at a spacious campsite, or rent a fully equipped cottage. During the day, you can hike or bike on easy trails, navigate your boat along the Chattahoochee River for fishing, or let your kids burn off energy at the playground.
Stunning Views Await at Black Rock Mountain
Black Rock Mountain beckons outdoor enthusiasts and hikers with outstanding trails and panoramic vistas. Challenge yourself on the James Edmonds Backcountry Trail or simply stroll around the fishing lake at Georgia’s highest state park. This rugged mountain retreat offers a unique escape with well-appointed cottages or camping adventures.
Tee Off at Jack Hill State Park
Jack Hill State Park is the perfect fun-filled getaway for golfers. Enjoy affordable rates and relaxing play at Brazell’s Creek Golf Course. Bring the family along for a mini-golf tournament or renting pedal boats for aquatic adventure. Hikers and anglers will find their fix too, with trails and a fishing pier. After a day of fun, unwind at a spacious campsite or cozy cabin.
Fishing and Boating at Seminole State Park
Sparkling Lake Seminole is known for exceptional bass fishing, birding and nature photography. The park surrounds a small cove, so you’ll enjoy smooth water for swimming, skiing, and tubing. Fourteen well-appointed cottages sit along the water, with private grills and picnic tables as well. Hikers can explore a long-leaf pine forest, looking for gopher tortoises, migratory birds, indigo snakes, and other wildlife.
Farm Life at General Coffee State Park
Farm life and wildlife are the stars at General Coffee State Park in south Georgia. Kids can see barnyard animals like sheep and chickens, as well as a blacksmith shop and corn crib at Heritage Farm. Hiking sand ridges and a wetland boardwalk provides plenty of opportunities to see deer and gopher tortoises. Camp under the stars or rent the historic Burnham House for a cozy stay.
Wildlife and Golf at Laura S. Walker State Park
Laura S. Walker State Park is a true gem just north of the famed Okefenokee Swamp. Look for alligators, yellow shafted flickers, warblers, and carnivorous pitcher plants along the trail. Rent kayaks and bicycles, or play golf at The Lakes Golf Course. Your four-legged traveling companion will especially appreciate playing in the fenced dog park. Accommodations at this quiet park include cottages and campsites.
Enoy the Waters at Indian Springs State Park
One of our nation’s oldest state parks, Indian Springs is known for mineral-rich water that guests can collect during their stay. Hike through scenic woodlands, wade in the rocky creek, or bike to nearby Dauset Trails. Campers like the quiet 62-site campground, while those looking for more modern comforts can rent private cottages. A boat ramp, fishing lake, kayak rental, mini-golf, and historic displays are available as well.
Lake Allatoona’s Red Top Mountain State Park
Craving water adventures or lakeside relaxation? Red Top Mountain State Park just north of Atlanta offers both. Tent campers can set up right along 12,000-acre Lake Allatoona and RVs can choose from numerous wooded sites. Cottages offer fully equipped kitchens and screened porches, while yurts let you glamp in style. Hike the Homestead Trail, bike on the Iron Hill Trail, or put your toes in the sand at the popular swimming beach.
Lake Lanier’s Don Carter State Park
Nestled on a quiet section of 38,000-acre Lake Lanier, Don Carter State Park offers pretty scenery and abundant recreation. Launch your fishing boat, rent kayaks, or go biking or hiking on 14 miles of trails. Equestrians can explore the forest on horseback, and those with physical challenges can reserve a Track Chair. One campground is designed for RVs, while a primitive area is perfect for tents. Cottages sit on wooded hillsides near the lake.
