11 Under-Appreciated State Parks In Georgia You’re Sure To Love
Parks and natural wonders are true marvels in the state of Georgia. People from all over the country come to our state to go hiking, camp near the waterfalls, climb the unique geological rock formations, and appreciate the natural beauty that our great state has to offer. Maybe you’ve been to the most renowned state parks or the more touristy places that Georgia showcases–which are beautiful enough in their own right. But we wanted to shed some light on the more under-appreciated state parks to visit in Georgia that we know will be just as worthy of your time and attention. Take a look:
1. Black Rock Mountain State Park, Mountain City, Georgia
Black Rock Mountain State Park, 3085 Black Rock Mountain Pkwy, Mountain City, GA 30562, USA
Almost 1,800 acres of pure, unfiltered Georgia. That's what you get when you visit Black Rock Mountain State Park. From the bottom of the mountains amidst the rugged terrain to the top of the vistas for crisp, fresh air, you'll be in for a real treat. When it comes to unique adventures in Georgia, it just doesn't get much better than Black Rock Mountain State Park.
2. Watson Mill State Park, Comer, Georgia
Watson Mill Bridge State Park, 650 Watson Mill, Comer, GA 30629, USA
With a plethora of walking trails and beautiful landscapes, Watson Mill State Park is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon in Georgia. The best part about this park is the historical and stunning covered bridge. In fact, it's the longest covered bridge in all of Georgia.
When it comes to the best state parks to visit in Georgia, High Falls State Park belongs on your radar. Not only is this state park sprawling at more than 1,000 acres, but it also features the tallest cascading waterfall south of Atlanta. Make sure to bring your walking shoes and camera!
4. Sprewell Bluff State Park, Thomaston, Georgia
Sprewell Bluff Park, 700 Sprewell Bluff Rd, Thomaston, GA 30286, USA
Majestic and scenic...those are the first two words that come to mind when I think about Sprewell Bluff State Park. Whether you climb to the overlook and look out over the state, or canoe down the river for a leisurely afternoon, you'll find contentment in your visit. Looking for more information? You can visit the official Sprewell Bluff State Park website.
5. Red Top Mountain State Park, Cartersville, Georgia
Red Top mountain state park, Cartersville, GA 30121, USA
Connect with the magic of Georgia nature, while also enjoying the mesmerizing Lake Allatoona. Best known for the 12,000-acre lake inside the state park, this land also features almost 20 miles of trails to tackle, too! While you're there, be sure to check out this fascinating hike that will lead to historic ruins.
6. Chehaw State Park, Albany, Georgia
Chehaw Park Road, Chehaw Park Rd, Albany, GA 31701, USA
There are more than 700 acres of land at this unique state park in Georgia, dedicated to the wildlife and conservation of wild animals in the state. Chehaw has three goals in mind for their park system: conservation, preservation, and education.
7. Crooked River State Park, St. Marys
Crooked River State Park, 6222 Charlie Smith Sr Hwy, St Marys, GA 31558, USA
With scenic marsh views and wonderful pieces of unfettered nature at your fingertips, this is the state park to visit along the coast of Georgia. You'll never want to see another sunset elsewhere in the state. For a true adventure, check out this scenic road trip that will take you to Crooked River State Park and other beautiful Georgia destinations.
8. Fort Yargo State Park, Winder, Georgia
Fort Yargo State Park, 210 S Broad St, Winder, GA 30680, USA
If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind getaway from the city life of Georgia, then this is the park for you. With tons of recreational trails, plus one heck of a beautiful lake, you won't want to miss out on this Georgia park. For more information, be sure to check out the Fort Yargo State Park website.
9. Unicoi State Park, Helen, Georgia
Unicoi State Park & Lodge, 1788 GA-356, Helen, GA 30545, USA
Unicoi deserves a ton of recognition in the state of Georgia for being one of the most magical around. There are campgrounds to set up shop for a weekend away, plus trails to the spectacular Anna Ruby Falls. It is pure relaxation in the middle of nature. Learn more about this gorgeous Georgia state park nestled in the mountains.
10. Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill, Georgia
Fort McAllister State Park, 3894 Fort McAllister Rd, Richmond Hill, GA 31324, USA
It is the special location just south of Savannah that makes Fort McAllister State Park so wonderful. With marshlands in abundance and views like you wouldn't believe (climb the observation tower), you won't want to miss out on this coastal gem. While you're there, be sure to check out this stunning wildlife hike along the Georgia coast.
11. Laura S. Walker State Park, Waycross, Georgia
Laura S. Walker State Park, 5653 Laura Walker Rd, Waycross, GA 31503, USA
What makes the Laura S. Walker State Park such a great place in the state of Georgia is the fact it is in such close proximity to the Okeefenokee Swamp. Bring your bike for a trail ride along the edge of the water. But be warned! Alligators roam near. Learn more about what makes this one of the most memorable state parks to visit in Georgia.
Address: Watson Mill Bridge State Park, 650 Watson Mill, Comer, GA 30629, USA
Address: Sprewell Bluff Park, 700 Sprewell Bluff Rd, Thomaston, GA 30286, USA
Address: Red Top mountain state park, Cartersville, GA 30121, USA
Address: Chehaw Park Road, Chehaw Park Rd, Albany, GA 31701, USA
Address: 76 High Falls Park Dr, Jackson, GA 30233, USA
Address: Crooked River State Park, 6222 Charlie Smith Sr Hwy, St Marys, GA 31558, USA
Address: Fort Yargo State Park, 210 S Broad St, Winder, GA 30680, USA
Address: Black Rock Mountain State Park, 3085 Black Rock Mountain Pkwy, Mountain City, GA 30562, USA
Address: Unicoi State Park & Lodge, 1788 GA-356, Helen, GA 30545, USA
Address: Fort McAllister State Park, 3894 Fort McAllister Rd, Richmond Hill, GA 31324, USA
Address: Laura S. Walker State Park, 5653 Laura Walker Rd, Waycross, GA 31503, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
state parks to visit in Georgia
January 10, 2022
Beth C.
What are the top natural wonders to visit in Georgia?
As you learned in the article above, Georgia has no shortage of natural beauty to admire. Now that you’ve delved into the state’s impressive state park system, it’s time to learn about some more beautiful natural attractions located throughout the Peach State. Georgia’s natural wonders could truly impress just about any outdoor enthusiast. One of our top recommendations would be Lula Falls. It’s possibly one of the most underrated natural gems in the whole state, and it’s located just a short drive from downtown Chattanooga. Next up on the list would be Providence Canyon, fondly known as the Little Grand Canyon of Georgia. The landscape is equal parts breathtaking and dramatic. Some other must-see natural wonders in Georgia include Panther Creek Falls, Providence Spring, Cherokee Falls, Cumberland Island, Bridal Veil Falls, Wormsloe Historic Site, Red Clay Resort, Andrews Cove Recreation Area, Marble Mine Trial, and Radium Springs. Curious to learn more about these places? Check out our previous article: 15 Stunning Natural Attractions In Georgia That Are Great For Day Trips.
Address: Watson Mill Bridge State Park, 650 Watson Mill, Comer, GA 30629, USA
Address: Sprewell Bluff Park, 700 Sprewell Bluff Rd, Thomaston, GA 30286, USA
Address: Red Top mountain state park, Cartersville, GA 30121, USA
Address: Chehaw Park Road, Chehaw Park Rd, Albany, GA 31701, USA
Address: 76 High Falls Park Dr, Jackson, GA 30233, USA
Address: Crooked River State Park, 6222 Charlie Smith Sr Hwy, St Marys, GA 31558, USA
Address: Fort Yargo State Park, 210 S Broad St, Winder, GA 30680, USA
Address: Black Rock Mountain State Park, 3085 Black Rock Mountain Pkwy, Mountain City, GA 30562, USA
Address: Unicoi State Park & Lodge, 1788 GA-356, Helen, GA 30545, USA
Address: Fort McAllister State Park, 3894 Fort McAllister Rd, Richmond Hill, GA 31324, USA
Address: Laura S. Walker State Park, 5653 Laura Walker Rd, Waycross, GA 31503, USA
A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.
