August 2015 News from Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites
Georgia Department of Natural Resources sent this bulletin at 07/27/2015 10:15 AM EDT
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August 2015
> IN THIS ISSUE: New Yurts Opening at Sweetwater Creek
"Glamping" Comes to Sweetwater Creek State Park
No tent? No problem. Campers wanting a bit of luxury will love the 10 new yurts opening late this month at Sweetwater Creek State Park. Yurts are like a combination between a cabin and tent, with soft beds inside and cozy campfires outside. Hot showers are a short walk away. This park just west of Atlanta is the sixth Georgia State Park to offer "glamping" or glamour camping. The park will host an open house on August 29 where you are invited to tour the new yurts and check out the mill ruins, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, hiking trails, fishing spots and visitor center.
Park Activities
Golf at Great Rates
Discover championship golf at affordable prices at eight Georgia State Park Golf Courses. With challenging designs that leverage spectacular scenery, our courses are like playing a resort without surrounding houses. Plus, they offer relaxed environments that welcome families and firsttime golfers. Most offer clinics and private instruction for every age and level. Pro shops, packages, tournaments and member discounts are available as well.
Celebrate Summer
Just because the kids are back in school doesn't mean summer fun has to end. Take a day trip that's close to home, where you can explore hiking trails and fishing ponds. Mix a history lesson with a fun excursion to one of our historic sites. Or stay cool with a dip in one of our swimming beaches or pools. For something new, rent a stand-up paddleboard at High Falls State Park near Jackson, or race through the spash pad at GordoniaAlatamaha State Park in Reidsville. Use this map to discover a park near you.
Instagram Contest
Show off your Georgia State Park campsite this summer for a chance to win a $50 gift card from Bass Pro Shops. Tag your creative camping pictures with #CampGaStateParks when posting to Instagram, and include the name of the park you're visiting. Weekly winners will be chosen on Mondays through August 17. Never been camping in a Georgia State Park? You might enjoy our "First-Time Camper" program where you can borrow gear before buying your own. For just $50, get a campsite, tent, sleeping pads and more for two nights.
Upcoming Events
Dog Days of Summer -- Dog Day at Panola
Saturday, August 8, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Bring Fido for a tail-waggin' time at the park. Includes a guided dog walk, K-9 demonstrations, canine obstacle course, pet adoptions, silent auction, face painting, games for you and your pooch, and even tree climbing (for people, not pups). Leashes required. Held at Alexander Lake side of the park. $5 parking. 770-389-7801
Panola Mountain State Park, Stockbridge
Perseid Party and Paddle
August 13 15 On Thursday night, lay on the park's beach to enjoy the Perseid meteor shower until early hours of the morning. On Friday night, take a guided kayak tour of the lake to enjoy the show. Register in advance. Kayak tour free for cabin and campground guests. $5 beach viewing; $20 kayak tour; $5 parking. 706-557-3001
Hard Labor Creek State Park, Rutledge
"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 Locations
Featured Deal
Grab This Groupon!
Save 50% on camping rates at select Georgia State Parks this summer. You'll pay just $16 to $22 per night to stay at Seminole, Florence Marina, George L. Smith, General Coffee, Gordonia-Alatamaha, Reed Bingham, Magnolia Springs, Kolomoki Mounds, Fort McAllister and Crooked River state parks.