“Leaf Watch” Website Tracks Best Fall Color in Georgia

“When will the leaves change?” is the question park rangers hear most often once cooler temperatures arrive.  Only Mother Nature knows for sure, but peak color in Georgia is usually toward the end of October or early November.  To help leaf peepers find the best scenery, Georgia’s State Parks offer an online “Leaf Watch” travel planner, found at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/leafwatch.

Beginning in October, regular updates will keep travelers posted on how fall color is progressing across Georgia’s Blue Ridge.  The website is filled with top trails and overlooks, mountain cabins and campsites, fall events, and safe hiking tips.  Shutterbugs are encouraged to post their favorite shots to the Georgia State Parks Facebook page and Instagram.

Georgia’s top state parks for leaf watching include Amicalola Falls, Black Rock Mountain, Cloudland Canyon, F.D. Roosevelt, Fort Mountain, Moccasin Creek, Red Top Mountain, Smithgall Woods, Sweetwater Creek, Tallulah Gorge, Unicoi, Victoria Bryant and Vogel. For quieter getaways, visitors may want to explore parks further south, which can offer pretty autumn color as well. They key for most vibrant color is warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights.

Georgia’s State Parks offer a variety of accommodations where leaf peepers can stay in the heart of autumn scenery. Park guests can choose from fully equipped cabins, modern campsites and even yurts – a “glamping” trend that is like a tent-cabin.  Georgia State Parks’ most sought-after accommodations are often reserved 13 months in advance, and most fill up on weekends. Guests are encouraged to make plans as early as possible or visit during weekdays.  Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-864-7275 or at GeorgiaStateParks.org/reservations.

Top Georgia State Parks for Fall Color

AMICALOLA FALLS STATE PARK – Dawsonville

Just an hour north of Atlanta you’ll find the Southeast’s tallest cascading waterfall.  The falls can be enjoyed from both easy and difficult trails.  A short, flat path leads to a boardwalk offering the most spectacular views.  There’s also an easy-to-reach overlook at the top.  For a tougher challenge, start from the bottom of the falls and hike up the steep staircase.  Amicalola Falls gets very busy on pretty October weekends.  Pumpkin farms and apple orchards are nearby. http://gastateparks.org/AmicalolaFalls/Trails

BLACK ROCK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK – Clayton

At an altitude of 3,640 feet, Black Rock Mountain is Georgia’s highest state park.  (Brasstown Bald is the state’s highest peak.) Roadside overlooks and the summit Visitor Center offer sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.  The 2.2-mile Tennessee Rock Trail is a good choice for a short, moderate hike.  For an all-day challenge, take the 7.2-mile James E. Edmonds Backcountry Trail.  If driving Hwy. 441 north to the park, stop by Tallulah Gorge State Park and quirky Goats on the Roof. http://gastateparks.org/BlackRockMountain-Hiking http://www.gastateparks.org/TallulahGorge

CLOUDLAND CANYON STATE PARK – Near Chattanooga

One of Georgia’s most beautiful parks offers easy-to-reach rim overlooks and challenging hiking trails.  A favorite hike takes you down a long, steep staircase to the bottom of the canyon, where you’ll find two waterfalls.  (Remember, you have to hike back up, but it’s worth it.)  The 5-mile West Rim Loop is moderately difficult and offers great views of the canyon.  “Glamping” yurts are located off this trail. http://gastateparks.org/CloudlandCanyon

F. D. ROOSEVELT STATE PARK – Pine Mountain

Many people are surprised to find hardwood forests and rolling mountains south of Atlanta.  The 6.7-mile Wolf Den Loop is a favorite section of the longer Pine Mountain Trail.  For a touch of history, drive to Dowdell’s Knob to see a life-size bronze sculpture of President F.D. Roosevelt and great views of the forested valley.  Ga. Hwy. 190 is a pretty driving route. http://www.gastateparks.org/item/148124

FORT MOUNTAIN STATE PARK – Chatsworth

This park is best known for a mysterious rock wall along the mountain top, plus a variety of trails. For the easiest walk, take the 1.2-mile loop around the park’s pretty, green lake.  For a challenging, all-day hike, choose the 8-mile Gahuti Trail.  Mountain bikers have more than 14 miles to explore.  Hwy. 52 has beautiful mountain scenery and overlooks worth stopping for. http://www.gastateparks.org/FortMountain

MOCCASIN CREEK STATE PARK – Lake Burton

Georgia’s smallest state park sits on the shore of a gorgeous deep-green lake.  Guests can choose from the 2-mile Hemlock Falls Trail or 1-mile Non-Game Trail with a wildlife observation tower.  Hwy. 197 is a particularly pretty road, passing Mark of the Potter and other popular attractions. http://www.gastateparks.org/MoccasinCreek

RED TOP MOUNTAIN STATE PARK – Lake Allatoona

Just 40 minutes north of Atlanta you’ll find a variety of trails with nice fall color.  The easy, flat 4-mile Iron Hill Loop is open to bikes and foot traffic, offering great views of the lake and forest.  Another good choice for lake views is the 5.5-mile Homestead Trail.  Families with young children will like the paved walking path behind the park office.  Be sure to explore the log cabin and blacksmith shed. http://gastateparks.org/RedTopMountain

SMITHGALL WOODS STATE PARK – Helen

Protecting more than 6,000 acres around Dukes Creek, this is the perfect spot for fly fishing while enjoying fall color.  Day visitors can picnic near the creek, and overnight guests can hike a private trail to Dukes Creek Falls.  A 1.6-mile loop climbs to Laurel Ridge and provides a view of Mt. Yonah once most leaves are off the trees.  This park is near many wineries and Helen’s Oktoberfest. http://www.gastateparks.org/SmithgallWoods

SWEETWATER CREEK STATE PARK – Lithia Springs

Just west of Atlanta you’ll find 9 miles of hiking trails, a beautiful creek and small lake.  For an easy walk, take the popular 1-mile Red Trail which follows the creek to the ruins of an old mill.  For more of a workout, continue past the mill to the Blue Trail, where you’ll climb steep bluffs for outstanding creek views.  Sign up for a guided hike to learn more about this park’s Civil War history. A new yurt village opened this September. http://www.gastateparks.org/SweetwaterCreek

TALLULAH GORGE STATE PARK – Near Clayton

Tallulah is one of the most spectacular canyons in the Southeast, and you can choose from easy or difficult trails.  Hike along the rim to several overlooks with waterfall views, or get a permit from the park office to trek all the way to the bottom.  During November, you can watch expert kayakers as they enjoy the bi-annual “whitewater releases.”  Be sure to see the park’s film because it includes heart-racing footage of kayakers and news clips from Karl Wallenda’s famous tightrope walk across the gorge. http://www.gastateparks.org/TallulahGorge

UNICOI STATE PARK – Helen

Avoid Oktoberfest crowds in Helen by hiking a pretty 3-mile trail which leads from the park into town.  You can enjoy lunch and window shopping before hiking back to the trailhead.  Mountain bikers can zip past fall color on the park’s challenging 7.5-mile bike loop.  If you’re up for a steep hike, take the 4.8-mile Smith Creek Trail up to Anna Ruby Falls.  (To avoid having to hike back, leave a second car at the falls.) http://gastateparks.org/Unicoi

VICTORIA BRYANT STATE PARK – Royston

Nestled in the rolling hills of Georgia’s upper Piedmont, this is one of northern Georgia’s best kept secrets. A beautiful stream flows through the park, providing the perfect setting for an after-picnic stroll. Hikers can follow either the short nature trail or the longer perimeter trail that travels through hardwoods and crosses creeks. http://www.gastateparks.org/VictoriaBryant

VOGEL STATE PARK – Blairsville

The 4-mile Bear Hair Gap Trail makes a nice day trip for experienced hikers, offering great mountain color and a birds-eye view of the park’s lake.  For an easier walk, follow the Lake Loop to a small waterfall.  The twisting roads around Vogel, particularly Wolf Pen Gap Road, offer some of north Georgia’s prettiest fall scenery. http://www.gastateparks.org/Vogel

Below is a selection of July events at Georgia’s State Parks & Historic Sites. For more programs, visit www.GaStateParks.org/events and the parks’ web pages. More information on accommodations and recreation can be found at GeorgiaStateParks.org or 1-800-864-7275. Thank you for helping promote Georgia’s natural and historic resources!

Coastal Georgia

Cannons Across the Marsh
Saturday, July 4, 10 AM to 4 PM
Fort King George Historic Site – Darien, GA
Join the garrison for a day of artillery drills, musket firings, and soldier’s life activities to honor Independence Day. Free watermelon and lemonade will be served. $4.50- $7.50 912-437-4770.

Independence Day at Fort McAllister
Saturday, July 4, 10 AM to 4 PM
Fort McAllister State Park – Richmond Hill, GA
Celebrate Independence Day like it’s 1864. Games, food and fun for all. Living history demonstrations, cannon firings, and musket demonstrations. $5-$8 plus $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Independence Day Colonial Faire
Saturday, July 4, 11 AM to 3 PM
Fort Morris Historic Site – Midway, GA
Celebrate the 4th with colonial games, contests of skill, colonial music, musket firings, cannon firings and activities. Prizes will be awarded to all participants. Free admission sponsored by the City of Flemington, Friends of Fort Morris and Liberty County Convention and Visitors Bureau. 912-884-5999.

Independence Day in Waycross
Saturday, July 4, 9 AM to 12 PM
Laura S. Walker State Park – Waycross, GA
Children can participate in three-legged races, sack races, football toss, watermelon football, relay races, egg carry, and other fun games. Bring the whole family for a ranger-led hike on Big Creek Nature Trail at 9:30 a.m. Free watermelon and hot dogs will be available for children while supplies last. $5 parking. 912-287-4900.

Metro Atlanta

Full Moon Kayak Tour
Thursday, July 2, 8:30 PM to 10 PM
Friday, July 31, 8:30 PM to 10 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Join a guided tour of Lake Rutledge and enjoy a peaceful paddle under a bright moon. Listen for night sounds, enjoy the night sky, and learn about the history of Hard Labor Creek State Park. Register in advance. The program will proceed if it is cloudy or if there is light drizzle. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.

Native American Games 
Saturday, July 11, 10 AM to 4 PM
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site – Cartersville, GA
Learn about games that early Native Americans played and how they have influenced modern games and sports. $2 – $6. 770-387-3747.

New Moon Kayak Tour
Friday, July 17, 8:30 PM to 10 PM
Saturday, July 18, 8:30 PM to 10 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Lake Rutledge is a great place to enjoy the night sky. Join this ranger-led tour of the lake and enjoy night sounds, star-gazing, and a relaxing time on the water. A new moon means that many stars will be visible on the night-time paddle. The program will proceed if it is cloudy or lightly drizzling. Register in advance. Meet at Beach. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.

“Get Outdoors” Star Gazing Kayak Tour
Friday, July 17, 8:30 PM to 10 PM
Saturday, July 18, 8:30 PM to 10 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Hard Labor Creek State Park is just far enough from Atlanta to have a really dark sky – perfect for stargazers. Join this guided paddle and enjoy the stars, and night sounds on this after dark kayak tour. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.

Middle & South Georgia

Old-Fashioned Independence Day Celebration
Saturday, July 4, 10 AM to 1 PM
A.H. Stephens State Park – Crawfordville, GA
Events will begin with our 10 a.m. bicycle parade. Old-time games will start in the field behind the office, at 11 a.m. include sack races, three-legged races, relays, egg and water balloon tosses, and a paddle boat race. $2 plus $5 parking. 706-456-2602.

Liberty Bell Pool Party
Saturday, July 4, 1 PM to 3 PM
F.D. Roosevelt State Park – Pine Mountain, GA
Come splash with us! Music, food, and activities for the whole family. Play Beach Blanket Bingo and enjoy fab music from our sand and surf DJ. Fees plus $5 parking. 706-663-4858.

Fourth of July Celebration
Saturday, July 4, 10 AM to 4 PM
Florence Marina State Park – Omaha, GA
Arts and crafts for the whole family. Pontoon boat rides offered all day. $1 – $5 plus $5 parking. 229-838-4706.

Ol’ Time Independence Day at Jarrell Plantation
Saturday, July 4, 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Jarrell Plantation Historic Site – Juliette, GA
Put on your red, white and blue, pack a picnic, and spend a day on the farm. Hear the Declaration of Independence at noon and compete in sack race, three-legged race, egg toss, and other events. Watch blacksmiths, steam engineers, quilters, and other skills of the past. $4.00-$6.50 478-986-5172.

Independence Day Fishing Rodeo
Saturday, July 4, 9 AM to 11 AM
Reed Bingham State Park – Adel, GA
Land of the free and home of the brave, so what better to do than go fishing? Friends of Reed Bingham will host a kids fishing rodeo for kids 12 and under at the rodeo ponds. Prizes will be awarded. $5 parking. 229-896-3551.

Astronomy Night
Saturday, July 18, 7 PM
Providence Canyon State Outdoor Recreation Area – Lumpkin, GA
Columbus State University and the Coca-Cola Space Science Center will present an evening of star gazing and slides. Visitors may bring their own telescopes, but some will be provided. The park offers excellent sky viewing without light pollution. $5 parking. 229-838-6202.

Gators and the Galaxy
Saturday, July 18, 8 PM to 10 PM
Reed Bingham State Park – Adel, GA
I spy a gator. I spy a constellation. I spy a pontoon boat. Those three things together mean one thing. I night pontoon ride to see some gators and galaxies all around us. Preregistration is required. There will be two tours, 8 pm and 9 pm. Maximum of 15 people per tour. $8/adult and $5/child $5 parking. 229-896-3551.

Northern Georgia

Wild Cave Tours
Wednesdays and Saturdays in July
Cloudland Canyon State Park – Rising Fawn, GA
You will get muddy and wet on a family friendly underground adventure. Our guides will educate you on cave formations, bats, and geology while you have crawling your way through a wild cave. www.GeorgiaGirlGuides.com. Reservations required. $30-$60 plus $5 parking. 800-979-3370.

Full-Moon Suspension Bridge Hike
Wednesday, July 1, 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Thursday, July 30, 8 PM to 10 PM
Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls, GA
Enjoy a 1-mile hike that takes you down the stairs across, the suspension bridge and on the rim of the gorge under the full moon. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. 706-754-7981.

July 4th at Vogel
Saturday, July 4, 8 AM to 5 PM
Vogel State Park – Blairsville, GA
Celebrate July 4th at one of the nation’s oldest state parks. We will start the day with a flag raising ceremony at 8 a.m. at the Visitors Center, followed by a day of games for the whole family. There will be a bicycle parade, pedal boat races, sandcastle competition, watermelon eating contest, sack races, egg toss and greased pole climbing. $2 pedal boat race. $5 parking. 706-745-2628.

Holiday Gorge Floor Hike
Saturday, July 4, 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Sunday, July 5, 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Monday, July 6, 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls, GA
This is a strenuous trek, include hiking down 531 stairs, a river crossing jumping from rock to rock, and climbing boulders along the side of the river to Bridal Veil Falls where you can swim. Total miles are 3.5. No pets; wear appropriate footwear; children must be 10 or older; bring food and water. Register in advance. $10 plus $5 parking. 706-754-7981.

Tightrope Lessons
Saturday, July 4, 1 PM to 2:30 PM
Sunday, July 5, 1 PM to 2:30 PM
Saturday, July 25, 1 PM to 2:30 PM
Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls, GA
A .25 mile hike will take us to the site of Karl Wallenda’s 1970 walk across the gorge on a tightrope. There we will learn about the history of the tight rope walkers at Tallulah Gorge and teach the basics of walking on a slackline. Ages 8 and up. Reservations required, limit 20 spaces $5 plus $5 parking. 706-754-7981.

Chief Vann House Days
Saturday, July 25, 10 AM to 4 PM
Sunday, July 26, 10 AM to 4 PM
Chief Vann House Historic Site – Chatsworth, GA
Craftsmen will demonstrate 19th century weaving, basket making, quilting, spinning, rug making, blacksmithing, soap making, woodcarving, chair caning, and much more. Several activities will be set up for children including shooting a Cherokee blowgun and making their own butter. $5.50 – $6.50 706-695-2598.

Below is a selection of May 2014 events hosted by Georgia’s State Parks & Historic Sites. For a complete calendar, visit GeorgiaStateParks.org/events and individual parks’ pages. More information on accommodations and recreation can be found at GeorgiaStateParks.org or 1-800-864-7275.

Pine Mountain Trail Hike
Saturday, May 3, 2014 10 AM to 2:30 PM
F.D. Roosevelt State Park – Pine Mountain, GA
Enjoy late spring woodlands on this 5.0 mile moderate hike with PMT Association guides. Meet at the WJSP Parking Lot off Hwy 190. Geared towards ages 10 & older. Dress for the weather and bring water and a snack. $5 parking. 706-663-4858.

Dirty Spokes Mountain Bike Race
Saturday, May 3, 2014 8 AM to 6 PM
Fort Yargo State Park – Winder, GA
These 6-hour and 9-hour races take competitors along our mountain bike trail and allow visitors to see the action first-hand. www.dirtyspokes.com $5 parking. 770-867-3489.

Archery Explorer Train Ride
Saturday, May 3, 2014 10 AM to 4:50 PM
Georgia Veterans State Park – SAM Shortline Platform – Cordele, GA
Riding in air-conditioned, 1949 vintage train cars, you will travel from Georgia Veterans State Park, across Lake Blackshear to Plains, Archery and back. Explore President Jimmy Carter’s boyhood farm, go shopping and sample peanut butter treats. 229-276-0755.

Searching for Dragons and Damsels
Saturday, May 3, 2014 2 PM to 3:30 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Dragonflies and damselflies are some of the most beautiful and beneficial insects in the bug world. They come in many sizes shapes and colors. Join a park ranger on the hunt dating sites of older woman for these tiny predators, and explore streams, lake and pond. Bring a digital camera and binoculars for the adventure. Ages 10+. $5 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3006.

Twilight Paddle
Saturday, May 3, 2014 6 PM to 7:30 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Explore Lake Rutledge on this Ranger-Guided Twilight Paddle. As we scan the sky and woods for wildlife, and watch the changing colors on the water as the sun sets. A guide will interpret sophisticated dating the role the Civilian Conservation Corps made in creating this park in the 1930s. Meet at the Park Office/Trading Post. Register in advance. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.

Billy’s Island & Okefenokee Swamp Tours
Saturdays 10 AM – 12 PM – May 3, 2014 until May 31, 2014
Stephen C. Foster State Park – Fargo, GA
Join us for a tour of historic Billy’s Island. This island was home to Native Americans, pioneers, and lumbermen for thousands of years. We will take a boat out to the island and hike the short trail, about 3/4 of a mile, and view some of the relics left from times past. $15-$20 $5 parking. 912-637-5274.

Sapelo Island Birding Adventure
Tuesday, May 6, 2014 until Wednesday, May 7, 2014 3 PM to 4:30 PM
Crooked River State Park – St. Marys, GA
An exciting new 24-hour birding event. Travel by ferry to Sapelo Island along Georgia’s scenic coast, enjoy birding the beaches, marshes, fields and forests of this barrier island with expert birders. Stay overnight at the historic Reynolds Mansion. Registration is limited. Meals included. Starting at $299/person for double occupancy; ferry fee ($15) is not included in registration. $5 parking. 912-485-2299.

Watermelon Express Train Ride
Thursday, May 8, 2014 9:30 AM to 2:45 PM
SAM Shortline Downtown Cordele Depot – Cordele, GA
Enjoy this ride from our Downtown Cordele Depot to Historic Plains, the small Georgia town made famous by President Jimmy Carter. 229-276-0755.

Twilight Time Wagon Ride
Friday, May 9, 2014 7:45 PM to 8:45 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Join park staff and volunteers on this quaint tour through the park’s history in an old-fashioned wagon. Learn about the Civilian Conservation Corps, visit an old blacksmith shop, and possibly see wildlife that call the park home. Space is limited, pre-registration required. $5 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.

The Arrest of Alexander Hamilton Stephens
Saturday, May 10, 2014 11 AM to 2 PM
A.H. Stephens State Park – Crawfordville, GA
On May 11, 1865 A.H. Stephens was arrested and charged with treason. Experience a live reenactment of this event. We will also be reenacting his homecoming that took place on October 27, 1865. 706-456-2602.

Mother’s Day Hike with Mother Nature
Saturday, May 10, 2014 2 PM to 5 PM
Cloudland Canyon State Park – Rising Fawn, GA
Celebrate Mother Nature this Mother’s Day. We will hike Sitton’s Gulch to the bottom of Hemlock Falls while identifying plants, birds, and trees along the way. This is a 4-mile hike on moderate terrain. Water and trail snacks are provided. Ages 10 and up. Advanced reservations required. $10 plus $5 parking. 706-913-7170.

Astronomy Day Night Time Paddle
Saturday, May 10, 2014 8 PM to 10 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Join us on this paddle to view the sunset, and the night time sky, as we enjoy the various constellations. Pre-registration required, space is limited. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.

Moonlight Mountain Hike
Saturday, May 10, 2014 7:30 PM
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge, GA
Join us for an enchanted evening as we hike to the mountaintop under the moon. We’ll head out just before sunset and enjoy the stroll as the moon begins to rise. Bring flashlights, hiking boots and water. Meet at the nature center 15 minutes before each program. Participants must register in advance. $7 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

Iron Pour at Lake Allatoona
Saturday, May 10, 2014 2 PM to 9 PM
Red Top Mountain State Park – Cartersville, GA
Come discover the art of casting metal as we pour molten iron into scratch blocks that you’ve designed. Scratch blocks sold at event. $5 parking. 770-975-0055.

Tugaloo Bird Walk
Saturday, May 10, 2014 9 AM to 11 AM
Tugaloo State Park – Lavonia, GA
Clark Jones, president of the Oconee Rivers Audubon Society, will lead a walk that is open to birders of all skill levels. We will be walking a park trail so bring a water bottle and wear sturdy shoes. $5 parking. 706-356-4362.

Junior Fishing Rodeo
Saturday, May 10, 2014 8:30 AM to 11 AM
Victoria Bryant State Park – Royston, GA
Registration will dating christie mackenzie begin at 8:30 am. We will hold the Rodeo at the back pond. It is for children ages 16 yrs. or younger. All participates must be registered or in line to register by 9:00 am to be eligible for prizes. $5 parking. 706-245-6270.

Full-Moon Suspension Bridge Hike
Wednesday, May 14, 2014 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls, GA
Enjoy a 1.5 mile hike that takes you down the stairs across, the suspension bridge and on the rim of the gorge under the full moon. Register in advance. $5 per a person $5 parking. 706-754-7981.

Full Moon Kayak Tour
Friday, May 16, 2014 8 PM to 10 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Join a guided tour of Lake Rutledge, and enjoy a peaceful paddle under a bright moon. Listen for night sounds, enjoy the night sky, and learn about the history of Hard Labor Creek State Park. Register in advance. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.

Full Moon Hike
Friday, May 16, 2014 8 PM to 9 PM
Indian Springs State Park – Flovilla, GA
Join us for an exceptionally dark evening hike under the new moon. Learn about nocturnal creatures and sensory awareness at night. Bring flashlight, hiking boots, water, and your sense of adventure. Meet at the Overland trailhead parking lot. $5 plus $5 parking. 770-504-2277.

Artifact ID and Celebrate Archaeology
Saturday, May 17, 2014 10 AM to 4 PM
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site – Cartersville, GA
Dr. Lloyud Schroder will be here to identify your artifacts, so bring them by. Staff from the Waring Lab will be here after noon to show how archaeologist learn things from artifacts. Park staff will host games and activities throughout the day. $2-$6. 770-387-3747.

Tree Top Excursions: Introduction Climb
Saturday, May 17, 2014 1 PM
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge, GA
Join us “on rope” for an adventure exploring the canopy above. Participants will use rope and harness for this moderately strenuous activity. One group will start at 1PM; another group will start at 3PM. Participants must register in advance. $15 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals
Saturday, May 17, 2014 8 AM to 12 PM
Smithgall Woods State Park – Helen, GA
Children and their special “big person” can fish in a lake stocked with catfish, bass and bream. Fish caught can be kept. Bring your own bait (no corn) and rods. This event is not at Smithgall Woods, but at cardiga singles Buck Shoals, a nearby unopened state park. Call for directions. Occurs every third Saturday through September. $5 parking. 706-878-3087.

Red Line Super Sprint Triathlon
Sunday, May 18, 2014 8 AM to 12 PM
High Falls State Park – Jackson, GA
Redline Super Sprint is the the ideal race for veterans and newbiews. For those new to taking lives angelina jolie sex scene the sport, the course’s short distances are an excellent entry point into the fun world of multisport racing. mt pleasant dating mi For our veterans, we picked this format for you. $65 – $155 $5 parking. 479-993-3053.

Kayak Out to a Twilight Frog Slog
Friday, May 23, 2014 6 PM to 7:30 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Listen to, learn about, and see our froggy friends as we paddle out to explore a wetlands area at sunset! Wear shoes and clothes that you don’t mind getting wet and muddy. Meet at the Trading Post park office 15 minutes beforehand. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.

Constellations by Carriage
Friday, May 23, 2014 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Hard Labor Creek is a great place for star-gazing. Relax on this guided carriage ride by the beach. Call to pre-register, space is limited. $5 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.

Memorial Day Commemoration
Saturday, May 24, 2014 9 AM to 4 PM
Fort McAllister State Park – Richmond Hill, GA
Help us pay tribute to our fellow patriots who served our country throughout the years. Cannon and musket firings, Civil War demonstrations and family fun. $4.50-$7.50 912-727-2339.

Star Gazing Kayak Tour
Saturday, May 24, 2014 8:30 PM to 10 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Hard Labor Creek State Park is just far enough from Atlanta to have a really dark sky – perfect for stargazers. Join this guided paddle and enjoy the stars, and night sounds on this after dark kayak tour. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.

Watermelon Express Train Ride
Saturday, May 24, 2014 9:30 AM to 2:45 PM
SAM Shortline Downtown Cordele Depot – Cordele, GA
Enjoy this ride from our Downtown Cordele Depot to Historic Plains, the small Georgia town made famous by President Jimmy Carter. 229-276-0755.

Summer Music Series — Bluegrass
Saturday, May 24, 2014 8 PM to 9:30 PM
Tugaloo State Park – Lavonia, GA
The Georgia Highlanders will be at the park’s Beach Pavilion. This family friendly event is free, but the band will pass a hat for donations. $5 parking. 706-356-4362.

War of Jenkins’ Ear
Saturday, May 24, 2014 until Monday, May 26, 2014 1 PM to 4 PM
Wormsloe Historic Site – Savannah, GA
Wormsloe will commemorate Georgia’s role in the 1739-1748 war between Britain and Spain. A brief presentation at the Visitor Center will be followed by a tour to the tabby ruins and then to Colonial Life for military drills, musket and cannon firings, and a reenactment. $10 adults $9 seniors/military. 912-353-3023.

Historic Wagon Rides
Sunday, May 25, 2014 2 PM to 3 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Join this guided wagon ride and learn about the Civilian Conservation Corps, and the role they played in making Hard Labor Creek State Park. Space is limited, pre-registration required. $5 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.

Twilight Paddle
Sunday, May 25, 2014 6:30 PM to 8 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Explore Lake Rutledge on this Ranger-Guided Twilight Paddle. As we scan the sky and woods for wildlife, and watch the changing colors on the water as the sun sets. A guide will interpret the role the CCC made in creating this great park in the 1930s. Meet at the Park Office/Trading Post. Register in advance. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.