Your July Newsletter from Georgia's State Parks & Historic Sites 
 
Georgia Department of Natural Resources sent this bulletin at 06/27/2014 03:52 PM 
 
EDT 
 
Your E -News from Georgia's State Parks & Historic Sites 
 
July 2014 
 
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> IN THIS ISSUE: July 4th Celebrations, Swimming Beaches & Summer Camping Discounts 
 
Celebrating July 4th in Georgia's Great Outdoors 
From bicycle parades to putt-putt tournaments, we'll help you celebrate Independence Day in a big way. Pack a picnic, gather your friends and family, and spend the long weekend enjoying Georgia's beautiful scenery. You'll find events such as old-timey races and musket firings, plus sandy swimming beaches to keep you cool. You can even hear a reading of the Declaration of Independence at Jarrell Plantation. Remember that fireworks and sparklers are not allowed inside State Parks, but many nearby communities will host festive fireworks displays. 
Things to Do 
 
Go Paddling 
From the rapids of Tallulah Gorge to the serene Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia has paddling opportunities for all skill levels. Kayaks, canoes, pedal boats and even stand-up paddle boards are available for rent at many state parks. Some even have new aquacycles that let you pedal across the pond. Visitors are welcome to bring their own vessels as well. 
 
Gift Cards 
Need a birthday gift for an outdoor lover? What about a "thank you" for a friend? Georgia's State Parks now have gift cards that can be used for campsites, cabins, souvenirs, golf, kayak rental and numerous other activities. Cards may be purchased at Georgia State Park offices or by calling 1800-434-0982. 
 
Make a Splash 
We'll help you stay cool this summer. Several state parks have sandy swimming beaches which are free with your $5 parking fee. A few have pools that charge a small fee and provide lifeguards. Little Ocmulgee and Gordonia-Alatamaha have "splash pads" for little tykes. You can even enjoy "sliding rocks" at Tallulah Gorge (permit required). 
 
Upcoming Events 
Friday Night Frog Frolics 
F.D. Roosevelt State Park - Pine Mountain 
Listen to an amphibian concert and learn who is splashing about during this fun-filled frog search. The event is geared towards ages 4 and older and is not stroller accessible. Bring a flashlight. $5 parking. 706-663-4858. 
Fridays, July 11, 18 and 15, 8 p.m. 
Chief Vann House Days 
Chief Vann House Historic Site - Chatsworth 
Watch 1800s craft demonstrations at the home of a Cherokee Indian plantation owner. Demonstrators show the art of blacksmithing, soap making, weaving, spinning, quilting, doll making, chair and basket weaving, pottery and more. $4 - $6. 706-695-2598. 
Saturday, July 26, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Full-Moon Kayak Tour 
Hard Labor Creek State Park - Rutledge 
Join this guided tour of Lake Rutledge to enjoy a peaceful paddle under a bright moon. Listen for night sounds, enjoy the evening sky, and learn about the history of Hard Labor Creek State Park. We'll paddle during the "Super Moons" of July, August and September 2014. Register in advance. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001. 
Friday, July 11, 8:30 - 10:30 p.m. 
 
Featured Deal -- Summer Camping 
Save 50% on Select Campgrounds 
Campers, save 50% at the following campgrounds from July 15 through August 28: Florence Marina, General Coffee, Gordonia-Alatamaha, Kolomoki Mounds, Magnolia Springs, Reed Bingham, Stephen C. Foster and Seminole. Use promo code SUMMER50%. View park locations at www.GaStateParks.org/map