Things 2 Do

Spend Black Friday outdoors at a Georgia State Park

James H. Floyd State Park. IG: @sarahkmm

Skip the lines this Black Friday and opt for some time outside in the great outdoors instead.

Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites and REI are joining forces once again to continue the annual #OptOutside movement and reground everyone in the great outdoors.

 
 

Thursday, November 23, 2017

 
Swamper's Guide to the Galaxy
Thursday, Nov 23, 2017 7 PM to 8 PM
Stephen C. Foster State Park - Fargo, GA
  Watch for meteors, planets, observe the moon or take in all the stars above as we gaze upon a truly dark sky from deep within the Okefenokee. We will use both our unaided eyes and telescopes while we stargaze. Stephen C. Foster State Park is one of the darkest places in the Southeast due to a lack of light pollution in the Okefenokee Swamp. $5 parking. 912-637-5274.
Handicapped Accessible 
 
 

Friday, November 24, 2017

 
Christmas Lights at A.H. Stephens
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 6 PM to 10 PM
A.H. Stephens State Park - Crawfordville, GA
  On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Christmas, tour our 10-acre event field (located behind the office) and office area which has been beautifully decorated Christmas light displays by a host of site partners, volunteers and local businesses. Free treats will be available and holiday themed movies will be shown nightly. $5 parking. 706-456-2602.
 
 
 
Tri-State Hike
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Black Rock Mountain State Park - Mountain City, GA
  Meet the park naturalist at the Tennessee Rock/Edmonds trailhead for a beautiful 2.2 mile hike through the autumn sights. The Tennessee Rock trail is a moderate rated hike and from the Tennessee Rock Overlook, you may be able to see three states. This hike also gives the opportunity to burn off the extra calories acquired from the day before. $5 parking. 706-746-2141.
 
 
 
Sensory Awareness Night Hike
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 8:30 PM to 10 PM
Chattahoochee Bend State Park - Newnan, GA
  Join the ranger for an easy night hike along the River Trail with experiments to test your senses. We will have hot cocoa to keep your hands warm and taste buds happy on this cool night! Bring a flashlight and sturdy shoes. Dress appropriately for cooler weather. Ages 8 and older. $5 plus $5 parking. 770-254-7271.
 
 
 
Night Hike
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 5 PM to 7 PM
Cloudland Canyon State Park - Rising Fawn, GA
  Enjoy a 2-mile hike on one of the best trails at the park. You will learn interesting facts about the geology and history of the canyon. By the end of the hike, we will be in the dark, enjoying the trail by moonlight and listening for night sounds. Ages 10 and older. Reservations Required. $10 plus $5 parking. 706-913-7170.
 
 
 
Walk it Off!
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 9 AM to 10:30 AM
Crooked River State Park - St. Marys, GA
  Meet the Ranger at the River Trail entry for an invigorating and educational hike to relieve those guilt feelings from yesterday.Two different hikes. $5 parking. 912-882-5256.
 
 
 
Walk it Off!
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 2 PM to 3:30 PM
Crooked River State Park - St. Marys, GA
  Meet the Ranger at the River Trail entry for an invigorating and educational hike to relieve those guilt feelings from yesterday.Two different hikes. $5 parking. 912-882-5256.
 
 
 
Black Friday #OptOutside Nature Hike
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 1 PM to 3 PM
Elijah Clark State Park - Lincolnton, GA
  Elijah Clark will be hosting a nature hike on Black Friday. Instead of spending the day shopping why not join us on a nature hike along the 3-mile trail. You may see deer along the trail, an eagle flying over head or a nice view of Clark's Hill Lake. $5 parking. 706-359-3458.
 
 
 
Avoid the Madness Hike
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 11 AM to 1 PM
Fort Mountain State Park - Chatsworth, GA
  Don't get stuck in the Black Friday mess. Join a ranger on a moderate hike and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Wear appropriate shoes, and bring a water bottle. Register at the Visitor Center. $3 plus $5 parking. 706-422-1932.
 
 
 
Black Friday Hike
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 12 PM to 1 PM
Fort Yargo State Park - Winder, GA
  Skip the madness and opt for the great outdoors! Relaxing hike along the yellow trail. Meet at Entrance B Boat Dock. $5 parking. 770-867-3489.
 
 
 
Turkey Trek
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 11 AM
Hard Labor Creek State Park - Rutledge, GA
  Work off those extra pounds you acquired over Thanksgiving. Enjoy a moderate hike along Brantley and Beaver Pond trails. This 2.5 mile hike offers good chances for encountering wildlife while enjoying the scenic view. Meet at the Trading Post. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and bring water. Call for more information and to pre-register. $3 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.
 
 
 
Thanksgiving Paddle
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 3 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park - Rutledge, GA
  Come out and enjoy a guided afternoon tour of Lake Rutledge on a kayak/canoe. Unwind while hearing about the history of Hard Labor Creek while paddling to the sounds of nature. Meet at the kayak rack (beach area). Bring water and sunscreen. Space is limited, preregister in advance. $10 if you use your boat or $15 if you use ours. $5 parking. 706-557-3001.
Soak It In 
 
 
 
Stars of Red Top
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Red Top Mountain State Park - Acworth, GA
  Join AmeriCorps Rangers on Friday evenings as we observe the stars above us and hear stories about the constellations. Star charts will be on hand, and feel free to bring your own stargazing equipment. We also recommend bringing a blanket to lie on and a flashlight. Meet behind the Old Park Office, 50 Lodge Rd SE, Acworth, GA 30102. $5 parking. 770-975-0055.
AmeriCorps 
 
 
 
6th Annual Tour of Lights Festival
6 PM - 10 PM from Nov 24, 2017 until Dec 26, 2017 
Seminole State Park - Donalsonville, GA
  This self-guided tour features 25+ festively-lighted sites, as well as, our large Christmas tree of lights reflecting off the waters of Lake Seminole. Free (donations accepted). 229-861-3137.
 
 
 
Day After Thanksgiving "Bark in the Park" Dog Hike
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 1 PM to 2:30 PM
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs, GA
  Join a Park Ranger on an enjoyable "after the feasting" hike with your four-legged companion as we walk down to the impressive five story Civil War era New Manchester Mill alongside the gorgeous rapids(up to class IV) of Sweetwater Creek. All dogs must be leashed and have proof of rabies vaccination. $5 plus $5 parking. 770-732-5871.
 
 
 
Historic New Manchester Mill History Hike
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 2 PM to 3:30 PM
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs, GA
  This hike follows Sweetwater Creek down to the historic five-story Civil War era New Manchester mill with a Park Ranger. We will go inside the mill, as see in the "Hunger Games" film, is situated alongside the lovely rapids (up to class IV+) of the creek. This walking tour requires a moderate mile-long hike (total) down to the mill and back. $5 plus $5 parking. 770-732-5871.
 
 
 
Walk Off The Turkey with a Hike
Friday, Nov 24, 2017 10:30 AM to 3 PM
Tallulah Gorge State Park - Tallulah Falls, GA
  Take a guided hike through the gorge floor to work off those extra pounds you acquired over Thanksgiving. This hike is strenuous and involves climbing over and under rocks and logs, jumping from rock to rock, and possibly getting your feet wet. Participants must be 10 or older, no pets allowed. Call to register. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-754-7981.
 
 

Saturday, November 25, 2017

 
Christmas Lights at A.H. Stephens
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 6 PM to 10 PM
A.H. Stephens State Park - Crawfordville, GA
  On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Christmas, tour our 10-acre event field (located behind the office) and office area which has been beautifully decorated Christmas light displays by a host of site partners, volunteers and local businesses. Free treats will be available and holiday themed movies will be shown nightly. $5 parking. 706-456-2602.
 
 
 
Sunset Hike
Saturdays 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM – Nov 25, 2017 until Dec 9, 2017 
Black Rock Mountain State Park - Mountain City, GA
  Meet the park naturalist at the Visitors Center at 6:30 for a short hike to the Tennessee Rock Overlook. From the overlook you can witness one of the most beautiful sunsets you will ever see. Be sure and check the times as the sunsets are getting earlier each week. $5 parking. 706-746-2141.
 
 
 
Glow-In-The-Dark Bowling
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Chattahoochee Bend State Park - Newnan, GA
  Grab your glow sticks and light bracelets for family outdoor bowling. Bring a dim light or use glow sticks for light (no bright phone lights or flashlights, please). All ages welcome. $3 plus $5 parking. 770-254-7271.
 
 
 
Sitton's Gulch Hike
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 10 AM to 4 PM
Cloudland Canyon State Park - Rising Fawn, GA
  Hike like the locals & start at the bottom of the gulch & hike to the bottom of the falls. Go up 600 stairs, passing Hemlock & Cherokee Falls. Then, we will reward ourselves with a 3-mile hike downhill. Along the way, learn about the plants, animals, geology & history of the canyon. This is a moderate-strenuous 6-mile hike. Reservations required. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-913-7170.
 
 
 
Sunset Stroll to Sunset Point
Saturdays 7:30 PM - 8 PM – Nov 25, 2017 
Cloudland Canyon State Park - Rising Fawn, GA
  Take a short, easy walk to a special spot overlooking the valley to view the setting sun. Meet at the West Rim trail access parking. $5 parking. 706-657-4050.
 
 
 
Beach Combing on Cumberland Island
Saturday 9 AM - 12 PM – Nov 25, 2017 
Crooked River State Park - St. Marys, GA
  Enjoy a boat cruise Cumberland Island with a Park Ranger.Learn about birds & marine creatures that inhabit this unique and important ecosystem & a chance to see the wild horses.Shoes may get wet.Limited space,preregistration required. Call Park Office to register. $40 plus $5 parking. 912-882-5256.
 
 
 
Wildlife of Our World
Saturdays 2 PM - 3 PM – Nov 25, 2017 
Crooked River State Park - St. Marys, GA
  Meet and greet the animals who make coastal Georgia their home. Learn about some of their habits and behaviors to better understand why they are important to our world. $1 plus $5 parking. 912-882-5256.
Handicapped Accessible 
 
 
 
Get Fit Level 1 Hike
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 10 AM to 11:30 AM
Fort Mountain State Park - Chatsworth, GA
  There is no time like the present. Join a Ranger on an easy to moderate 1.6 mile hike around the Lake and Big Rock Trails. We will talk about the park, get to know each other, and discuss healthy eating. Please call the park to register. Meet by the beach. $3 plus $5 parking. 706-422-1932.
 
 
 
Storytime with Santa
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 5 PM to 8 PM
Indian Springs State Park - Flovilla, GA
  Santa Claus is coming to Indian Springs State Park! Children will enjoy stories with Santa, reindeer games, crafts, cookies, and hot chocolate. Remember the evening with a free picture with Santa! Meet at the Stone Pavilion. $5 parking. 770-504-2277.
 
 
 
Indoor Basic Archery
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 1 PM to 3 PM
Panola Mountain State Park - Stockbridge, GA
  Have you ever wanted to release your inner archer? Maybe you're just looking for a place to hone your skills, no matter the weather. All equipment is provided, no experience necessary. Ages 8 & up. Class meets at the Nature Center, not at the archery range. Call Nature Center to register. $15 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.
Handicapped Accessible 
 
 
 
Turkey Trek Night Hike
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 4 PM to 7:30 PM
Panola Mountain State Park - Stockbridge, GA
  Do you love the smell of turkey roasting over an open fire? Join us for this unique evening program where we will learn to cook your own Thanksgiving feast over the campfire. Worried about all those extra calories? Don't be! We will take a moderate mountain hike while they cook. Food provided by park. Bring flashlight, jacket and good hiking shoes. $25 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.
 
 
 
First Time Backpacker
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 10 AM
Providence Canyon Outdoor Recreation Area - Lumpkin, GA
  If you're interested in backpacking but have never gone, or if you just want to refresh your backpacking knowledge and skills, this is the perfect program for you. Join two AmeriCorps rangers as they guide you through the basics of backpacking. Preregistration for this program is required. See additional event details. $25 plus $5 parking. 229-838-4706.
AmeriCorps 
 
 
 
Guided Hikes
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 10 AM to 2 PM
Providence Canyon Outdoor Recreation Area - Lumpkin, GA
  Join our naturalist on Saturdays and Sundays at 10:00 AM or 2:00 PM for a guided tour of the canyon. Hikes are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. Please call and confirm dates and times of hikes prior to your arrival. $5 per person $5 parking. 229-838-6202.
 
 
 
November Night Hikes at Red Top
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 6 PM to 8 PM
Red Top Mountain State Park - Acworth, GA
  Come explore the park after dark! Learn about creatures of the night as we look and listen to the nightlife of Red Top. Meet at 50 Lodge Road for this family friendly hike. Plan for two hour walk; trails vary, about 1.5 - 2 miles. Remember your water and flashlight, dress appropriately. Hike will be canceled in event of inclement weather. $5 parking. 770-975-4226.
 
 
 
Introduction to Paddling
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 11 AM
Reed Bingham State Park - Adel, GA
  Have you ever wanted to learn the basics of paddling? We are holding a class to teach you about the equipment and how to properly use it. Pre-registration is required. $12 plus $5 parking. 229-896-3551.
 
 
 
6th Annual Tour of Lights Festival
6 PM - 10 PM from Nov 25, 2017 until Dec 26, 2017 
Seminole State Park - Donalsonville, GA
  This self-guided tour features 25+ festively-lighted sites, as well as, our large Christmas tree of lights reflecting off the waters of Lake Seminole. Free (donations accepted). 229-861-3137.
 
 
 
Paddle Under the Stars
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 5 PM to 7 PM
Stephen C. Foster State Park - Fargo, GA
  Join a ranger-guided paddle in a canoe or kayak while the sun sets over the Okefenokee. Watch the last light of day fade into the night, leaving only the stars and the moon to guide the way. Look for gator eyes glowing from your flashlight, enjoy a full moon or the milky way and enjoy a leisurely paddle in the swamp. Register in advance. $15-$20 $5 parking. 912-637-5274.
 
 
 
Historic New Manchester Mill History Hike
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 11 AM to 12:30 PM
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs, GA
  This hike follows Sweetwater Creek down to the historic five-story Civil War era New Manchester mill with a Park Ranger. We will go inside the mill, as see in the "Hunger Games" film, is situated alongside the lovely rapids (up to class IV+) of the creek. This walking tour requires a moderate mile-long hike (total) down to the mill and back. $5 plus $5 parking. 770-732-5871.
 
 
 
Introduction to Wilderness Survival
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 1 PM to 4 PM
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs, GA
  This class covers basic and advanced survival techniques. For ages 12 and up. Learn general skill such as fire making, emergency shelters, and navigation. Registration is required. Space limited. $10 plus $5 parking. 770-732-5871.
 
 
 
Historic New Manchester Mill History Hike
Saturday, Nov 25, 2017 2 PM to 3:30 PM
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs, GA
  This hike follows Sweetwater Creek down to the historic five-story Civil War era New Manchester mill with a Park Ranger. We will go inside the mill, as see in the "Hunger Games" film, is situated alongside the lovely rapids (up to class IV+) of the creek. This walking tour requires a moderate mile-long hike (total) down to the mill and back. $5 plus $5 parking. 770-732-5871.
 
 

Sunday, November 26, 2017

 
Christmas Lights at A.H. Stephens
Sunday, Nov 26, 2017 6 PM to 10 PM
A.H. Stephens State Park - Crawfordville, GA
  On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Christmas, tour our 10-acre event field (located behind the office) and office area which has been beautifully decorated Christmas light displays by a host of site partners, volunteers and local businesses. Free treats will be available and holiday themed movies will be shown nightly. $5 parking. 706-456-2602.
 
 
 
Waterfall Hike
Sundays 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM – Nov 26, 2017 until Dec 10, 2017 
Black Rock Mountain State Park - Mountain City, GA
  Bring the family and meet the Park Naturalist at the Black Rock Lake parking area for a short hike to the Park's Hidden Gem, Greasy Creek Falls. Enjoy nature as the children splash in the cool, clear waters of the pool at the base of the falls. Bring snacks and drinks to make a day of it. Good walking shoes are necessary. $5 parking. 706-746-2141.
 
 
 
Edible Plant Hike
Sunday 10 AM - 11 AM – Nov 26, 2017 
Fort McAllister State Park - Richmond Hill, GA
  Learn helpful tricks to identifying edible wild plants in Georgia! Enjoy a beautiful and scenic 3 mile hike with our park naturalist. We'll be searching for local plants that have medicinal properties, some used for tea, seasonings, and even ones that could be poisonous! Pets are welcome but must be kept on a 6-foot leash. $2 plus $5 parking. 912-727-2339.
 
 
 
Indoor Basic Archery
Sunday, Nov 26, 2017 1 PM to 3 PM
Panola Mountain State Park - Stockbridge, GA
  Have you ever wanted to release your inner archer? Maybe you're just looking for a place to hone your skills, no matter the weather. All equipment is provided, no experience necessary. Ages 8 & up. Class meets at the Nature Center, not at the archery range. Call Nature Center to register. $15 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.
Handicapped Accessible 
 
 
 
Guided Hikes
Sunday, Nov 26, 2017 10 AM to 2 PM
Providence Canyon Outdoor Recreation Area - Lumpkin, GA
  Join our naturalist on Saturdays and Sundays at 10:00 AM or 2:00 PM for a guided tour of the canyon. Hikes are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. Please call and confirm dates and times of hikes prior to your arrival. $5 per person $5 parking. 229-838-6202.
 
 
 
6th Annual Tour of Lights Festival
6 PM - 10 PM from Nov 26, 2017 until Dec 26, 2017 
Seminole State Park - Donalsonville, GA
  This self-guided tour features 25+ festively-lighted sites, as well as, our large Christmas tree of lights reflecting off the waters of Lake Seminole. Free (donations accepted). 229-861-3137.
 
 
 
Native American Heritage Hike
Sunday, Nov 26, 2017 2 PM to 4 PM
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs, GA
  Join us for a 2 and a half hour strenuous 1.5 mile hike focusing on the first inhabitants of our area, the Native Americans or American Indians, as we explore the east side which will include a visit to the "Indian Cave". Meet at the Visitor's Center. Reservations recommended. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are required. 6 years and older. $6 plus $5 parking. 770-732-5871.