Georgia State and Local Parks
What can I say? The State Parks around Atlanta are just awesome! Here are a few that I’ve checked out in the Atlanta area, North Georgia, and Coastal Georgia.
Sweetwater Creek State Park
If you’re on the hunt for a chill park that isn’t too fancy, Sweetwater Creek State Park is the spot for you. There’s a nice lake you can stroll up to and touch, plus some super easy trails to follow. And if you’re into learning, there are guided tours that fill you in on the park’s history!
Parks Near not FAR FROM atlanta
Sweetwater Creek
Located west near the Atlanta area in Douglas County, Sweetwater Creek is one of my favorite Parks to visit. The beautiful wetlands are a great area to have a picnic while observing the flowing waters. I have even gotten close enough to dip my feet in the cool moving waters.
You will find unique old time ruins of an old Mill that once operated on the creek back in the 19th century. Old bullet holes can be found on the walls of the old mill from the Civil War as well. The park will often have scheduled tours where you can get a closer look at the mill where a tour guide will inform you of the history of the area.
The Park has play areas for children, a Gift Shop, Campsites, Bait Shop, Boat Ramp, Visiting Center, Fishing Areas, a Museum, and easy to follow hiking trails. My main suggestion when coming to the Park is to try to get there early on weekends and holidays for parking. Parking can get a little tight during those times.
Parking: You will find various areas to park at this location right when you drive in. There is a $5 parking fee and an annual pass is valid for all State Parks in Georgia for $50.
Cloudland Canyon
This State Park is honestly one of the coolest spots in Georgia! If you’re into waterfalls, killer mountain views, and awesome hiking trails, you’ve totally found the right place.
North Georgia State PARK
Cloudland Canyon
This state park is where I first laid eyes on a real waterfall, and oh man, it was incredible! Honestly, words just don’t do it justice—you really need to check it out yourself. With those awesome sandstone formations all over the place, the cool forest trails meandering by the creeks, and that refreshing splash of water dripping from the rock walls hitting you right in the face as you stroll through, it’s got a little bit of everything. If you’re looking for a taste of nature in one spot, this is totally the place to be! This particular park is not super close to the Atlanta area, maybe about at hour or two away. One cool thing about this park this that they do have campgrounds and cabin areas if you want to sleep overnight.
Parking: At this location is usually pretty decent when I visit. There is a $5 parking fee and an annual pass is valid for all State Parks in Georgia for $50.
Fernbank Natural History Museum
If you want a place where kids and adults can truly enjoy themselves, this is it!
North Decatur near the city of atlanta
Fernbank Natural History Museum
I like to think of this spot as a little forest (75 acres) right smack in the city that not many folks even know about. I used to work at this museum ages ago, and while I was there, it really turned into an awesome outdoor Wildwoods park that’s fun for kids and adults alike. If you’re up for a chill, quiet stroll through a forest right in the city, Fernbank is your place! It’s located north of Decatur near some historic neighborhoods, and trust me, it’s a total hidden gem in Atlanta. If you’ve got kids, you’ll love the super cool indoor playground on the third floor, fun hands-on exhibits on the second floor, and some more grown-up exhibits on the first floor.
When you hit up the outdoor area of the museum, there’s this super cool nature playground for the little ones on one side and a bigger playground for the older kids on the other side. Seriously, the outdoor space is gorgeous! With walkable bridges and these awesome tree pod hangouts, it’s a total must-see. You might even spot some wildlife while you’re wandering the trails. I remember one time, I saw a river otter chillin’ in a stream while working in the Fernbank Forest a few years back!
Parking: Coming from someone who has worked at this facility for two years one thing I will tell you, parking is very thick on weekends. It is fine on weekdays, but if you want to visit this facility on the weekends definitely come early. Parking is also free.
Tybee Island
One of the many beaches on the coast of Georgia. Tybee is one of those amazing coastal spots in Georgia that’s perfect for a road trip – it’s totally breathtaking!
coastal georgia
Tybee Island
If you’re not familiar with Georgia, you might not know about Tybee Island. However, if you’ve heard of Savannah, Georgia, you should realize that Tybee Island is essentially its neighbor. This vibrant island is not just popular; it boasts one of Georgia’s five iconic lighthouses.
Tybee Island is just a bit over four hours from Atlanta. If you’re thinking about hitting the road to Tybee, grab your camera and get ready for some seriously stunning views! This cute little beach town is full of charm, with tons of local shops and restaurants to check out.
Parking: Parking at the Tybee Island Beach is public, easy and you will have to pay a fee.
Jasmine Flournoy
forurleisure.com
