Georgia is well known for its vast network of beautiful state parks and well-preserved historic sites.  Check our listing below for a quick reference, or visit the official website for more information:

Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites
404-656-2770, 770-389-7275
1-800-864-7275
www.gastateparks.org

Called the "Showplace of the Cherokee Nation," this tow-story classic brick mansion is one of the best-preserved Cherokee plantation homes. Built by James Vann in 1804, it was the first brick home within the Cherokee Nation. The mansion is decorated with beautiful and carvings and features a remarkable "floating" staircase along with many fine antiques. "read by many and loved by few," Vann was both a hero and a rogue, and he was responsible for bringing he Moravian missionaries into the Cherokee Nation to build schools. Vann himself was shot and killedat a local tavern in 1809. His son, Joseph Vann, inherited the home and went on to become a Cherokee statesman. He expanded the family wealth in property, slaves and a line of steamboats. The Georgia Militia evicted "Rich Joe" Vann in 1835 for having unknowingly violated a new law making it illegal for Indians to hire whites. Joseph then settled in the Cherokee Territory in Oklahoma and lived there until his death from a steamboat explosion in 1844. Open Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday 2 – 5:30 p.m. Closed Monday (except legal holidays), Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Closed Tuesday when open Monday. Small admission fee.
82 Ga. Hwy. 225 North, Chatsworth 770-389-7275 or 706-695-2598

Twenty years before the 1849 gold rush to California, thousands of gold seekers flocked into the Cherokee Nation in North Georgia, beginning the nation's first major gold rush. The towns of Auraria and Dahlonega grew and prospered with this mining activity. Between 1838 and 1861, more than $6 million in gold was coined by the U.S. Branch Mint in Dahlonega. The Dahlonega Gold Museum, formerly the Lumpkin County Courthouse, offers visitors a look at the mining history of Georgia. Gold coins minted in Dahlonega and nuggets- one weighing more than 5 ounces – are on display. A 23-minute film describes the mining techniques and lifestyles of the prospectors through interviews with members of the long-time mining families in the Dahlonega area. In the town of Dahlonega, visitors can shop for gold nuggets and pan for gold. Open Monday – Saturday 0 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Small admission fee.
1 Public Square, Dahlonega, (5 miles west of Ga. Hwy. 400) 770-389-7275 or 706-864-2257

Located on Pine Mountain, this park is deeply rooted in the historical era of four-time President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Seeking a place for treatment after he was stricken with polio in 1921, Roosevelt traveled to nearby Warm Springs and built his Little White House. Several structures within the park, including he mountain stone swimming pool, were built by Roosevelt's Civilian Conservation Corps during the Depression. Above Kings Gap, you'll find Dowdell's Knob, Roosevelt's favorite picnic spot overlooking a magnificent view of the valley below. Hikers will especially enjoy the scenic trails in Georgia's largest state park. This 9,047-acre park has 140 tent/trailer/RV sites, 21 cottages, a 23 mile Pine Mountain Trail, 2 lakes, scenic picnic areas, a swimming pool and a family/group picnic shelter. Visitors can enjoy hiking and backpacking, fishing and boating, horseback riding and swimming. Park hours. 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. Located just off I-185 near Callaway Gardens, west of Warm Springs on Ga.Route 190, or south of Pine Mountain off U.S. Hwy. 27.
2970 Georgia Highway 190, Pine Mountain 706-663-4858

At the northern end of Lake Walter F. George on the Chattahoochee River, this park offers the perfect setting for those who love water sports. It is adjacent to a natural deep-water marina with an accessible deep-water fishing pier, boat slips and boat ramp. The Kirbo Interpretive Center teaches visitors about Native Americans, nature and local history, and it displays artifacts from the prehistoric Paleo-Indian period through the early 20th century. Tours of the undisturbed Rood Creek Indian Mounds and Fort McCreary are available. This 173-acre park has 43 tent/trailer/RV sites, 6 cottages (2-bedroom), 8 Efficiency units, a swimming pool, 2 tennis courts, a marina (66 boat slips), a lighted fishing pier and miniature golf. Park hours: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. --- Located 16 miles west of Lumpkin at the end of Ga. Hwy. 39C 912-838-6870

Fort Mountain derives its name from an ancient 855-foot-long rock wall which stands on the highest point of the mountain. The mysterious wall is said to have been built by Indians as a fortification against other more hostile Indians or for ancient ceremonies. Situated in the Chattachoochee National Forest close to the Cohutta Wilderness area, this park offers a variety of outdoor activities for all to enjoy. Hikers will find some of the most beautiful trails in Georgia. Most wind through hardwood forest and blueberry thickets, occasionally crossing streams and providing spectacular vistas. During the summer, children will enjoy the sand beach located on a clear mountain lake. The 3,520-acre park offers 74 tent/trailer/RV sites, 15 Cottages, pioneer camping, 14 miles of hiking trails, 30 miles of mountain bike trails, 37 miles of horse trails, a lake with swimming beach, fishing, miniature golf and picnic shelter. Park hours: 7 a.m. – 10. p.m.
8 miles east of Chatsworth via Ga. Hwy. 52 (take exit 333 of I-75 toward Ga. Hwy. 411)
706-695-2621 (park) or 770-389-7275 --- (stables) 706-517-8555

In the early 1800s, this site was a prosperous industrial town with several stores, a grist mill, cotton gin, blacksmith shop, shoe factory and hotel. High Falls became a ghost town in the 1880s when a major railroad bypassed it. Today, park visitors can enjoy the scenic waterfall on the Towaliga River and hike to the remaining grist mill foundation. With its historic and natural beauty, High Falls State Park is a good place to spend nights camping and days taking life easy. This 995-acre park has 112 tent/trailer/RV sites, a 650-acre lake, a screened group shelter, pioneer camping, miniature golf, a swimming pool and 3 hiking trails. Park hours: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. --- Located l.8 miles east of I-75 exit #198 at High Falls Road 912-993-3053

Located off I-75 in middle Georgia, Indian Springs is considered one of the oldest state parks in the United States. The Creek Indians used the springs for centuries to heal the sick and impart extra vigor to the well. During the 1800s, the area was a bustling resort town. Today, visitors can still sample the spring water while enjoying the park's cottages, camping, swimming, fishing and boating. Many structures within the park were built during the Depression by members of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The 528-acre park has 88 tent/trailer/RV sites, 10 cottages, group camp, pioneer camping, 105-acre lake and beach, miniature golf, pedal boat rental (seasonal), fishing boat rental and a ¾-mile nature trail. A museum features exhibits on Creek Indian, resort era and CCC history. For boating, there is a ramp and private boats are allowed (10 horsepower limit). There are 7 shelters for picnicking. Park hours: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
678 Lake Clark Road, Flovilla (From I-75 southbound, take exit #205 to Jackson; proceed south on Ga. Hwy. 42 to the park. From I-75 northbound, take exit #188; proceed north on Ga. Hwy. 42. Approximately 15 miles from exits.) 770-504-2277

This cotton plantation was owned by a single family for more than 140 years. In 1847, John Fitz Jarrell built a simple heart pine house typical of most plantations and mde many of the furnishings visitors see today. In 1860, the 600-acre plantation was farmed by 39 slaves. After the Civil War, John increased his land to nearly 1,000 acres farmed by former slaves. As John aged, most workers left and the salve houses deteriorated and disappeared. After John's death, his son, Dick Jarrell, gave up teaching to return to the farm, and in 1895, he built a small house for his family that grew to 12 children. Dick diversified the farm, adding a sawmill, cotton gin, gristmill, shingle mill, planer, sugar cane press, syrup evaporator, workshop, barn and outbuildings. In 1974,his descendants donated these buildings to establish Jarrell Plantation State Historic Site. Open Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday 2 – 5:30 p.m. Closed Monday (except legal holidays), Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Closed Tuesday when open Monday. Small admission fee. Picnic tables available.
Located in northwest Jones County, southeast of Juliette, 18 miles from I-75 Forsyth exit #185 or 18 miles north of Macon via northbound I-75 Macon exit #171. 912-986-5172

For water lovers, this park has some of the best recreation facilities in the state park system. Within its boundaries are two lakes for swimming, boating and fishing, as well as the largest sand beach of any Georgia state park. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, mini golf, volleyball and horseshoes. A small lodge located near the beach features six units, each with a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, living area and bedroom. A campground with hot showers is also available. The park is named after a local businessman who operated the property as a private park from 1954 until 1971. The 136-acre park has 32 tent/trailer/RV sites, a group lodge, a 6-unit motor lodge, a swimming beach (largest of any Georgia state park), miniature golf, a nature trail and a l-mile exercise trail. Canoe, pedal and jon boat rental is available (seasonal). Private boats permitted, but electric motors only. Park hours: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
354 Tanner's Beach Road, 6 miles west of Carrollton off Ga. Hwy. 16 770-830-2222

This state park was created to protect a 100-acre granite monadnock (mountain) often compared to Stone Mountain near Atlanta. Minimally developed, Panola Mountain shelters rare plants and animals of the Piedmont region. Visitors may explore nature on their own or they may join park staff for nature programs and guided hikes into the conservation area. Due to its delicate ecological features, Panola Mountain was designated a National Natural Landmark and pets are not allowed on trails. This 759-acre park has a picnic area with 4 shelters, an Interpretive Center, 2 miles of self-guided nature walks and a l-mile fitness trail. Guided 3.5-mile hikes are offered every weekend (call for schedule). Park hours: September 15 – April 14, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. ( or dark); April 15 – September 14, 7 a.m. – 9 p.m. Interpretive Center hours: Tuesday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday – Sunday, noon – 5 p.m. Closed Monday except major holidays.
Located 18 miles southeast of Atlanta near Stockbridge on Ga. Hwy. 155 via I-20 exit #68.
770-389-7801

Visitors are amazed at the breathtaking colors of Georgia's "Little Grand Canyon." The rare Plumleaf Azalea and other wildflowers, as well as the pink, orange, red and purple hues of the soft canyon soil, make a beautiful natural painting at this unique park. Visitors can enjoy views of the canyons from the rim trail, and backpackers can stay overnight along the backcountry trail. An interpretive center explains how the massive ditches (the deepest being 150 feet) were caused by erosion due to poor farming practices in the 1800s. The l,l09-acre park has 2 picnic shelters, a family/group shelter, pioneer camping, primitive camping and an Interpretive Center. There are 3 miles of hiking trails and a 7-mile backcountry trail. Park hours: September 15 – April 14, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.; April 15 – September 14, 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Located 7 miles west of Lumpkin on Ga. Hwy. 39C 912-838-6202

Located near historic Savannah, this barrier island has both salt and fresh water due to estuaries and marshes that flow through the area. The park borders Skidaway Narrows, a part of the intercoastal waterway. Two nature trails wind through marshes, live oaks, cabbage-palmettos and longleaf pines, allowing visitors to watch for deer, raccoon, shore birds and rare migrating birds such as the Painted Bunting. Observation towers provide another chance for visitors to search for wildlife on this beautiful island. The 588-acre park has 88 tent/trailer/RV sites, a junior Olympic swimming pool, 5 picnic shelters, group shelter, playground and a museum and interpretive center. Most facilities are ADA accessible. The park offers educational/interpretive programs, a l-mile Sandpiper Nature Trail, a 3-mile Big Ferry Trail and a Colonial Coast Birding Trail Program. Park hours: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah (located 6 miles southeast of Savannah; take I-16 to Savannah, exit at I516 (exit #164), which runs into DeRenne Avenue. Turn right on Waters Avenue and go straight ahead to Diamond Causeway.) 912-598-2300 or 912-598-2301

Smithgall Woods-Dukes Creek Conservation Area was acquired by the state in 1994 as a gift-purchase from Charles A. Smithgall, Jr., a noted conservationist and businessman. Governor Zell Miller dedicated it as a Heritage Preserve, ensuring this spectacular estate will remain protected for future generations. North Georgia's premier trout stream, Dukes Creek, runs through the property and is available for catch-and-release fishing with special regulations. Four miles of trails and 18 miles of roads allow hikers and bicyclers to explore hardwoods, streams and wildlife. Quota hunts are offered during spring, fall and winter. Trout fishing, shuttles service and guided tours offered only on certain days of the week. Call for current schedule and to make reservations. All visitors must register at the visitor center. The 5,555-are park has a Visitor Center, nature trails, wildlife viewing stands and food plots, a primitive group camp, and The Lodge at Smithgall Woods for executive retreats or weekend getaways. Activities include trout fishing, hiking and bicycling, hunting, nature photography, wildlife observation, picnicking and guided tours. Open 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily. Trout fishing on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday only. --- 61 Tsalaki Trail, Helen (On Ga. Hwy. 75-Alternate, 3 miles west of Helen, just south of the Richard B. Russell Scenic Hwy., Ga. Hwy. 348). 770-389-7275 or 706-878-3087

This little-known gem on the Flint River is one of Georgia's newest state parks. Visitors can cool off in the gently flowing river, skip rocks across the water, picnic on the river's edge or toss horseshoes in a grassy field. A three-mile trail winds along the bank and up rocky bluffs, offering excellent views from high above the river. A boat ramp is available for canoers, kayakers, rafters and anglers. The l,372-acre park has a picnic area with grills and fishing for bass and catfish. Canoes may be rented nearby, and camping is available approximately 25 miles away a F.D. Roosevelt State Park. Open 7 a.m. – dark daily.
740 Sprewell Bluff Road, 8 miles west of Thomaston off Ga. 74 (Go to Old Alabama Road, turn left. Go south 5 miles from Ga. 74 to reach Sprewell Bluff.) 706-646-6026

Sweetwater Creek is a peaceful tract of wilderness only minutes from bustling downtown Atlanta. The park features a variety of natural and cultural resources, including the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a Civil War-era textile mill. Nine miles of trails, shaded streams and the George Sparks Reservoir make this park a popular outing destination. The 2,035-acre park has a 215-acre lake, a group shelter and BBQ pit, 11 picnic shelters, playgrounds, 2 fishing docks, a bait shop, boat rental (canoes, fishing boats), 9 miles of hiking trails, lake and stream fishing (electric motors only) and educational programs.
Take I-20 west from Atlanta, exit #44 at Thornton Road, turn left and go ¼ mile. Turn right on Blairs Bridge Road, turn left on Mount Vernon Road and proceed to park. 770-732-5871

This state park was created through a partnership between the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Georgia Power Company. One of the most spectacular gorges in the eastern U.S., the chasm is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep. The park's breathtaking views and the town's rich history make this area a favorite stopping point along U.S. Highway 441 – the main route between Atlanta and the Great Smoky Mountains. The park's interpretive center features an award-winning film that takes viewers on a dramatic journey through the gorge. Tallulah Gorge State Park is taking an aggressive position toward visitor safety and protection of natural resources. Due to the rugged terrain and fragile plant and animal life, visitors must obtain a free permit (limit 100/day) from the visitor center before hiking into the gorge. The park has 50 tent/trailer/RV sites, a primitive campsite, more than 20 miles of hiking and biking trails (including a paved "Rails to Trails" project), gorge overlooks, a 63-acre lake with beach, picnic shelter, tennis courts and fishing. Whitewater paddling is available but is restricted to the first two April weekends and the first three November weekends. Park hours: 8 a.m. – dark.
$4 parking. --- Located on U.S. Hwy. 441 in Tallulah Falls
Park Office: 706-754-7970 or 770-389-7275
Camping Reservations: 706-754-7979

Nestled in the north Georgia mountains just two miles from the Alpine village of Helen, Unicoi is one of Georgia's most popular state parks. Throughout the year, the park offers outstanding programs, which focus on its natural, cultural, historical and recreational resources. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking and biking on scenic mountain trails, while craft lovers will enjoy shopping in the craft shop specializing in hand-made quilts. Numerous picnic tables are located throughout the park. The l,023-acre park offers 84 tent/trailer/RV sites, 30 cottages, a 100-room Lodge and Conference Center, a 53-acre lake and beach, 4 tennis courts, a restaurant, craft shop, picnic shelters, playground, 12 miles of hiking trails, an 8-mile mountain biking trail, fishing (trout stream, lake and wheelchair accessible dock), swimming and canoe and pedal boat rental (seasonal). The park is open 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Located 2 miles northeast of Helen via Ga. Hwy. 356
706-878-3982 (park)
706-878-3983 (programs)
l-800-573-9659 (reservations)

One of Georgia's oldest and most popular state parks, Vogel is located at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Driving from the south, visitors pass through Neel Gap, a beautiful mountain pass near Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia. Vogel is particularly popular during the fall when the Blue Ridge Mountains transform into a rolling blanket of red, yellow and gold leaves. Cottages, campsites and primitive backpacking sites provide a range of overnight accommodations. The 238-acre park features 103 tent/trailers/RV sites, 35 cottages, a 20-acre lake with a swimming beach and fishing, 4 picnic shelters, pioneer camping, miniature golf, pedal boats (seasonal), a group shelter, a CCC Museum and a General Store. There are 17 miles of hiking trails and the Appalachian Trail is nearby. Park hours:
7 a.m. – 10 p.m. --- 7485 Vogel State Park Road, Blairsville (11 miles south of Blairsville via U.S. Hwy. 19/129) 770-389-7275 or 706-745-2628