Georgia's diverse terrain beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore mountainous regions, woodlands and rivers, lakes and plains and 100 miles of coastline. Pack up your gear to experience tent camping in state parks and National Seashores scattered across the vast contour of the state. From traversing dunes to hiking mountain trails, Georgia's landscape offers endless opportunities to satisfy your adventurous spirit.
Northeast Region
Hedging a deep gorge created by Sitton Gulch Creek, explore the rugged terrain of Lookout Mountain at Cloudland Canyon State Park. From the Rim Trail, you'll descend a 600-foot stairway to reach two incredible waterfalls tumbling over shale and sandstone, coming to rest in churning pools on the gorge floor. Located in Rising Fawn, the park offers 72 tent campsites and 30 walk-in sites.
Northwest Region
Nestled in the shadows of the Chestnut Mountains, at Unicoi State Park you can hike the scenic 6-mile, round-trip Unicoi/Helen trail to view thunderous Anna Ruby Falls. Experienced mountain bikers can ride the 7.5-mile loop, offering spectacular vistas from overlooks along the way. Situated 2 miles from the village of Helen, 82 tent sites and 33 walk-in campsites are available.
Central Region
Situated in Flovilla, Indian Springs State Park has 88 tent campsites available. Launch your boat, canoe or kayak from the lake's ramp, or rent a fishing boat on site. Enhance your visit to the area with a day trip to the 35,000-acre Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge, 33 miles south in Macon. Here you'll discover an abundance of wildlife, including 92 species of butterflies.
Southeast Shore
Situated between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, Cumberland Island National Seashore offers backcountry, hike-in camping and rustic seaside camping, in addition to a conventional campground. With 50 miles of hiking trails, meander through maritime forest, wetland and marsh ecosystems, historic areas and beaches edging the eastern shore. Exploration of the island is by foot or bike only; public transportation is not available. If you want to travel light, bike rentals are available at Sea Camp from ferry deckhands. To access the island, take a ferry from the dock located at the waterfront in historic downtown St. Marys.
Southwest Region
Florence Marina graces the shores of Walter F. George Lake in Omaha. Park features include a lighted fishing pier, boat ramp and dock with 66 boat slips, two playgrounds and a 3/4-mile-long nature trail. Drop a line and try to break the 2010 record for the largest blue catfish caught at the lake, weighing in at 80 pounds and measuring 49 inches long. There are 43 campsites available.
Interesting Facts
In June of 1732, England's King George II granted a royal charter to establish the colony of Georgia, making it the last of 13 British colonies to be named. Georgia boasts six nicknames: Peach State, Goober State, Empire State and Yankee-land of the South, Cracker State and Buzzard State. Flora representing the state is the live oak and azalea, and the official bird is the brown thrasher.
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