Newsletter from Georgia State Parks [July 2015]

July 2015 News from Georgia's State Parks

Georgia Department of Natural Resources sent this bulletin at 07/01/2015 10:41 AM EDT

Outdoor classrooms, golf discounts, evening kayak trips

July 2015

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> IN THIS ISSUE: Outdoor classrooms, golf discounts, evening kayak trips

New Outdoor Classrooms Coming Soon
The Friends of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites recently announced plans to construct three innovated outdoor classrooms this year. Part of Nature Explore's "Dig In: Outdoor Learning Experience," the classrooms help children connect to nature in safe environment and meaningful way. The first three will be constructed at Panola Mountain, Red Top Mountain and Don Carter state parks, with openings set for later this year. For more information or to donate to the project, visit FriendsofGaStateParks.org.

Park Activities

Park Paddlers Club
This quest is perfect for summer and will get you out exploring Georgia's waterways. Buy a membership card for $10 and have it punched after paddling each of the six participating parks. Once you've finished, you'll earn a Park Paddlers Club t-shirt. Parks rent canoes and kayaks, so equipment isn't required -- plus beginners are welcome. If you're the type who loves a challenge, check out our Canyon Climbers and Muddy Spokes clubs as well.

Renovated Cabins at
Hard Labor Creek
Overnight guests at Hard Labor Creek State Park in Rutledge can now enjoy beautifully renovated cabins during their visits. Updated cabins have two bedrooms and two bathrooms, and one is dog friendly. They feature screened porches, wooded views, cozy fireplaces, flatscreen televisions, new furniture and spacious kitchens. Overnight guests even enjoy free kayak tours during select events.

Vote for Tallulah Gorge as Best Swimming Hole
You can help Tallulah Gorge State Park in northeast Georgia be named the "Top Swimming Hole" in the country by USA Today. This is a gorgeous spot to cool off during summer. Free permits are required to hike down to the gorge floor and Bridal Veil Falls (also known as Sliding Rock). Only 100 permits are issued each day, and they often are gone by late morning. So, go early to the park's visitor center. For their own safety, dogs are not allowed in the gorge.

Upcoming Events
Evening Paddle Trips
Multiple Dates in July and August
Join park rangers for guided kayak tours during the full moon, new moon or even meteor showers. Overnight guests in the park's cabins or campsites enjoy free admission to the August "Paddle Under the Perseids." Register in advance since space is limited. 706-557-3001
Hard Labor Creek State Park, Rutledge

Georgia Junior Golf Tour
July 11-12 Young golfers ages 7 to 18, plus those eligible for the college division (ages 19-21), can join this golf tour across Georgia. The next events are July 11-12 at Jekyll Island Golf Club and August 1-2 at Arrowhead Pointe at Richard B. Russell State Park. The cost is $100 - $120 based on age. The deadline to enter for this month is July 9.
Jekyll Island and More Locations
"Find Your Park" Centennial Bike Ride
August 28-30 Registration is now open for this bike tour commemorating the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service. Along the way, you'll explore two National Historic Sites, three State Parks and even the SAM Shortline Excursion Train.
Multiple Parks Across Southern Georgia
Featured Deal
Play 18 Holes of Golf for $34 -- Plus More Golf Course Discounts
Many Georgia State Park Golf Courses are offering discounted greens fees and merchandise this summer. Ask for the "Summer Special" at Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course and play 18 holes with cart for just $34. Highland Walk is offering 30% off nine holes Monday through Friday. The Lakes has 20% off collegiate logo items in the pro shop, such as Georgia Bulldog sunglasses. Plus, Brazell's Creek has discounted Wilson Staff Duo golf balls (40.0 compression) to half price.