October & Halloween Events in Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites
Below is a sample of October 2016 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.
Metro Atlanta
Skills of the Past
Saturday, October 1, 2016 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site – Cartersville, GA
Watch live demonstrations of crafts from the past and learn about skills that Native Americans used in their everyday lives. $2 -$6. 770-387-3747.
Hidden Gem History Hike
Sunday, October 2, 2016 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs, GA
This “Hidden Gem” hike will take us to several interesting Civil War-era historic sites and ruins in the Ferguson’s Crossing area of the park. This hike is rated moderate, and closed-toe shoes are required. $8 plus $5 parking. 770-732-5871.
Lost But Found Safe and Sound
Saturday, October 8, 2016 1 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge, GA
Learn simple techniques for staying safe and keeping track of your family when venturing into the great outdoors. Georgia Department of Natural Resources Search and Rescue Dog Team volunteer Diane Stone and her trusty K9 companion Keegan will be leading this interactive class (unless a SAR emergency is occurring). Meet at the Nature Center. Must register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.
Intro to Tree Climbing
Saturday, October 8, 2016 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, October 9, 2016 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday, October 15, 2016 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, October 16, 2016 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge, GA
Join us “on rope” for an adventure exploring the canopy above. This is an introductory program to recreational tree climbing. Participants will use rope and harness to ascend into a 200+ year old Southern Red Oak, where they can climb, swing, and scramble. Climbs start at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Must call to register. Ages 8 and up. $15 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.
Bark in the Park: Dog Hike
Monday, October 10, 2016 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs, GA
Walk the beautiful trails of the park with your four-legged companion. We will enjoy a guided hike by a park ranger alongside the rapids of Sweetwater Creek and view the New Manchester Mill from the recent movie “Hunger Games: Mockingjay.” Reservations required. Meet outside the Visitor’s Center. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are required. Ask about our Tails on Trails Club. $5 plus $5 parking. 770-732-5871.
Atlanta Audubon Society Bird Walk
Friday, October 14, 2016 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge, GA
Bring your binoculars for this gentle hike through the park’s Power of Flight area. Basic identification techniques and common birds will be discussed. Good for all ages. We recommend long pants and sleeves. Meet Alexander Lakes parking area. Call to register in advance. Donations of birdseed are appreciated. $5 parking. 770-389-7801.
Moonlight Mountain Hike
Saturday, October 15, 2016 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge, GA
Join us for a ranger-led hike up Panola Mountain to enjoy sunset over Atlanta. The moonlight will guide us down to a lakeside campfire where we’ll enjoy s’mores. Bring flashlights, bug spray, hiking boots and water. Ages 10 and up. Advance registration is required. $15 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.
Spooky Wagon Ride
Friday, October 21, 2016 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 22, 2016 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Friday, October 28, 2016 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 29, 2016 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Take a frightful wagon ride through a dark and creepy forest where you’ll meet a strange and ghastly cast of characters along the way. Wagon will depart from beach parking lot and each ride lasts about 20 minutes. Volunteer ghosts are invited to contact the park in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.
Paranormal Panola
Saturday, October 29, 2016 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge, GA
Looking for a real fright? Spend an evening investigating Panola’s haunted past. We invite you to join us as we explore our history with experts from Timeless Paranormal and search for those left behind. This is a real investigation experience using professional ghost hunting equipment. Ages 14 and older. Must register in advance. $20 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.
Middle & South Georgia
Archery for Beginners
Saturdays, October 1, 8, 15 and 22, 2016
10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Elijah Clark State Park – Lincolnton, GA
Haven’t shot an arrow yet? Would you like to learn and sharpen your archery skills? Either way, you’ll be guided and taught by our experienced ranger. Pre-registration is encouraged. $5 plus $5 parking. 706-359-3458.
Antique Steam Engine Demonstration
Saturday, October 1, 2016 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Jarrell Plantation Historic Site – Juliette, GA
Come “let off some steam” by blowing the whistle, a signal used to communicate between Jarrells manning different work positions throughout the mill. See our stationary steam engine in action and experience live steam that puts into motion this important provider of mechanical energy in America’s past. $4-6.50 478-986-5172.
Georgia Reptiles from the Mountains to the Coast
Saturday, October 8, 2016 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Jarrell Plantation Historic Site – Juliette, GA
Georgia Farm Monitor’s “Ranger Nick” is coming to Jarrell Plantation to share his knowledge of Georgia reptiles. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to learn about – and see – these fascinating creatures. $4-$6.50 includes presentation and historic site admission. 478-986-5172.
Family Fall Festival
Saturday, October 8, 2016 3:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Mistletoe State Park – Appling, GA
Enjoy a snake program, pumpkin scavenger hunt, nature hike, apple bobbing, marshmallow roasting, old-fashioned games, making corn husk dolls, music and storytelling. Friends of Mistletoe will offer $2 hayrides. $10 per vehicle includes parking. 706-541-0321.
Watermelon Express Train Ride
Saturday, October 1, 2016 9:30 a.m. to 3:05 p.m.
Saturday, October 8, 2016 9:30 a.m. to 3:05 p.m.
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. Tickets range from $29.99 to $49.99 for adults. 229-276-0755.
Fall Fest at Elijah Clark
Friday, October 7, 2016 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Saturday, October 8, 2016 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Sunday, October 9, 2016 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Monday, October 10, 2016 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Elijah Clark State Park – Lincolnton, GA
Enjoy the fall color changes of our leaves, brisk morning breeze off the lake, and a warm fire in the evening. Some of the activities will include Friday night movie night, Saturday Fall Fest, hayride, bouncy house, pumpkin bowling, scare crow craft, apple bobbing like you have never done before, cake walk, and more. $3-$20 plus $5 parking. 706-359-3458.
Full Moon Paddle
Friday, October 14, 2016 5 p.m.
George L. Smith State Park – Twin City, GA
Join us for a moonlight canoe and kayak paddle under the stars. Register at the office any day prior to the event between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Check-in will be from 5:00 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. We will launch at 5:35 p.m. $15 includes equipment, $8 if you bring your own. $5 parking. 478-763-2759.
History and Haunts of Camp Lawton Tour
Friday, October 14, 2016 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturday, October 15, 2016 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday, October 28, 2016 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturday, October 29, 2016 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Magnolia Springs State Park – Millen, GA
Experience an entertaining evening of history, beautiful scenery and ghostly tales. Learn about the historic Civil War prison Camp Lawton from Author Dr. John Derden. Enjoy a walking lantern tour of the grounds, which encompasses the prison and fort areas, while sharing ghostly experiences of previous guests. The tour will end in our museum. $15 plus $5 parking. 478-982-1660.
Day Out With Thomas
October 21, 22, 23, 29, 30, 2016
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
SAM Shortline Train at Georgia Veterans State Park – Cordele, GA
You can spend a whole day with the beloved storybook engine, Sir Topham Hatt and other friends. Tickets are $22 plus tax and handling fee. 877-427-2457.
Halloween Moonlight Madness
Saturday, October 22, 2016 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
General Coffee State Park – Nicholls, GA
Kick off your Halloween activities with a kids’ carnival (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) followed by the park’s haunted house (6 – 10 p.m.) and haunted trail (dark – 10 p.m.) Hayrides will be offered 6 – 10 p.m. for a ride to the campgrounds and back to view the decorations in our campsite decoration contest. $1-$7 plus $5 parking. 912-384-7082.
Haunted Park
Friday, October 28, 2016 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 29, 2016 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Elijah Clark State Park – Lincolnton, GA
Our haunted park will start off with movie night October 28. Get ready for the costume contest and all the fun activities we will have for you later in the day. Our haunted house will open from 6:00-9:30 p.m. $3 – $5 plus $5 parking. 706-359-3458.
Meet The Author/Book Signing – The Gatekeeper
Saturday, October 29, 2016 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Roosevelt’s Little White House Historic Site, Warm Springs, GA
Kathryn Smith, author of The Gatekeeper: Missy LeHand, FDR and the Untold Story of the Partnership That Defined a Presidency, will discuss and sign copies of her book in the museum. Presentations will be at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., including Smith as Missy with Dr. Hal S. Raper as FDR. $9-$14. 706-655-5870.
A Haunted Evening at A.H. Stephens
Saturday, October 29, 2016 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
A.H. Stephens State Park – Crawfordville, GA
Join park staff and Friends of A.H. Stephens for a fun evening of ghouling events. Activities include a haunted hayride, treats, movie on the lawn, Wii Dance, campfire, costume contest, and a campsite decorating contest for both RV and equestrian campers. $1 -$3 plus $5 parking. 706-456-2602.
Fala Day
Saturday, October 29, 2016 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Roosevelt’s Little White House Historic Site – Warm Springs, GA
Scottish Terrier Society of Greater Atlanta will present a fun-filled day of activities celebrating Fala. Bring your doggies and loving memories of those who have crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. Find out how your scottie can be in a murder mystery book or become the official mascot for Little White House. $7-$12. 706-655-5870.
Halloween Hayride
Saturday, October 29, 2016 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Seminole State Park – Donalsonville, GA
Come enjoy a hayride along our Gopher Tortoise Trail while listening to spooky stories about the area’s history. You might even see a spirit or two. Lots of games, fun and enjoyment for the whole family. 5 tickets-$1 per ticket $5 parking. 229-861-3137.
Northern Georgia
Tri-State Hike
Saturday, October 1, 2016 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Saturday, October 22, 2016 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Black Rock Mountain State Park – Mountain City, GA
Take a refreshing 2.2 mile nature hike through the beautiful wild-flower filled forest of the Tennessee Rock Trail. Stop to rest at the overlook while you enjoy stunning mountain views stretching across North Carolina and into the distance as far as Clingman’s Dome, Tennessee. Meet the Park Naturalist at the Tennessee Rock Trail. $5 parking. 706-746-2141.
Nacoochee Valley Farm and Family Exposition
Saturday, October 8, 2016 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Hardman Farm Historic Site – Sautee Nacoochee, GA
Travel back in time to an old country fair with vendors dressed in period costumes creating hand-made Appalachian products like baskets, brooms, pottery and more. The Crafters Village offers an opportunity to learn to make candles, butter, and wash with a wash board. Tours of the Nichols-Hunnicutt-Hardman House available by reservation. $5 parking. 706-878-1077.
Second Saturday Guided Hikes
Oct 8, 2016 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Smithgall Woods State Park – Helen, GA
Take a guided hike through the captivating scenery of Smithgall Woods. Guided hikes will be offered every second Saturday of the month (weather permitting). Throughout the year, hikes will rotate through the various trails located throughout Smithgall. All ages are welcome. No pets please. $5 parking. 706-878-3087.
Hidden Gem: A Walk Through the Mining Industry
Saturday, October 15, 2016 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Saturday, October 22, 2016 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
James H. (Sloppy) Floyd State Park – Summerville, GA
The hills of NW Georgia use to be rich with mining operations in the 1960’s and 1970’s. Join a ranger led hike to the old Marble Mine and discover the history that lies in these hills. $5 parking. 706-857-0826.
Full Moon Lake Paddle
Saturday, October 15, 2016 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls, GA
Enjoy a relaxing paddle around Tallulah lake as the full moon reflects off the water. This ranger-led event is an exciting way to get out in the evenings and enjoy nature. Space is limited, so register in advance. No pets; kids must be 8 or older. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-754-7981.
Jail Tales Trail
Friday, October 21, 2016 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls, GA
Participants will begin at the old jail house where there will be storytelling, then walk from the beginning of the Shortline Trail to a bonfire at the suspension bridge, where they’ll enjoy roasting marshmallows and a hayride. The last walk beings at 8:30. $5 parking. 706-754-7981.
Ghost Legends of the Valley
Saturday, October 22, 2016 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Hardman Farm Historic Site – Sautee Nacoochee, GA
Storytellers transport visitors through the misty veil into a realm of ghosts and creatures of the night. Co-sponsored with the Sautee Nacoochee Community Association (SNCA), the event offers guests an opportunity to experience two historic landscapes under a fall night sky. Recommended for age 12+ Guests must be registered prior to event. $15 per adult includes 6 stories, 3 at each site. $8 for teens. $12 for members of Friends of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites or SNCA. A small handling fee will be added for each ticket sold. For tickets please visit http://snca.tix.com 706-878-1077.
Haunted Hills Hayride
Friday, October 21, 2016 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Saturday, October 22, 2016 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Friday, October 28, 2016 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Saturday, October 29, 2016 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Victoria Bryant State Park – Royston, GA
Join our annual spooktacular haunted hayrides, which are fun for all ages. Come early because ticket sales close at 10 pm. Tickets go on sale at 7:30 each night. We’ll be showing a movie, have a bonfire and we will have refreshments for sale. $5 plus $5 parking. 706-245-6270.
Campfires, Marshmallows and Ghosts
Sunday, October 30, 2016 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Black Rock Mountain State Park – Mountain City, GA
Get in the mood for Halloween tomorrow night. Join us at the Mellinger Center for old fashion campfire fun! Bring your ghost stories along with plenty of hot dogs and marshmallows to roast over the camp fire as we listen to tales of Appalachian ghosts and goblins. $5 parking. 706-746-2141.
Tallulah’s Trunk or Treat for Halloween
Monday, October 31, 2016 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls, GA
Park visitors can decorate their cars and hand out treats to children as they walk from car to car. Games will be provided for children while cars are being decorated. Prizes will be awarded for cars and costumes. Please show up on time so that no cars are driving in the parking lot while children are trick-or-treating. $5 parking. 706-754-7981.
Coastal Georgia
Ghosts and Legends of Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation
Friday, October 7, 2016 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, October 14, 2016 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday, October 15, 2016 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, October 21, 2016 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday, October 22, 2016 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, October 28, 2016 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Monday, October 31, 2016 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation Historic Site – Brunswick, GA
Take an eerie journey back in time at Coastal Georgia’s most haunted rice plantation. As you walk beneath centuries old Live Oak trees, explore the out-buildings on the plantation and a lantern tour of the main house you will hear tales of recent ghostly encounters, plantation folklore and the rich but tragic history of the Low County rice fields. $15. 912-264-7333.
Civil War Candle Lantern Tour
Saturday, October 8, 2016 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Fort McAllister State Park – Richmond Hill, GA
See Civil War soldiers go about their evening duties. Stop in the barracks for hot cider and cookies, then prepare yourself for a blast with a cannon firing over the Ogeechee River. Tours will be held every half hour, with the last at 9:30 p.m.. $5-$8. 912-727-2339.
Fall Festival
Saturday, October 22, 2016 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Laura S. Walker State Park – Waycross, GA
Children of all ages can play brand new games as well as old favorites to win candy. Bring the whole family because we will also have live music, bingo, hayrides, a haunted hayride, face painting and much more! There will even be some activities for toddlers. $3 per vehicle. $5 parking. 912-287-4900.
Falloween Family Fun Day
Saturday, October 22, 2016 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Skidaway Island State Park – Savannah, GA
Celebrate fall with games, crafts and activities all focused on the season and Halloween. Hop on a hayride and tour the park. There will be plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. Bring a bag to trick-or-treat through the campground. Trick-or-treating will begin at 3pm. $3 plus $5 parking. 912-598-2300.
Misery Woods Haunted Forest
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 7 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. from October 28, 2016 until October 30, 2016
Skidaway Island State Park – Savannah, GA
Join Skidaway Island Rangers as they navigate you through a trail of terror filled with maniacs, monsters and mayhem. Misery Woods will shatter your senses and leave you screaming for your own sanity. $5 plus $5 parking. 912-598-2300.
Creepy Crooked River
Saturday, October 29, 2016 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Crooked River State Park – St. Marys, GA
Enjoy trick-or-treating, hayrides, a creepy Nature Center, and campground decorating contest Everyone in the campground who participates will receive a discount on their stay Also, don’t forget candy to hand out to the goolish goblins and monsters looking for candy. $3 per person $5 parking. 912-882-5256.
