What State Parks Are In Or Around Atlanta, Georgia?

If you have ever been to Georgia, you know how beautiful the great outdoors can be across the state. Georgia has so many natural resources and remains one of the best places to hike and camp in the nation. It may not surprise you to learn that there are more than 60 state parks throughout the state. Still, sometimes people are amazed to find out that there are state parks near the busy metropolitan area of Atlanta.

Sweetwater State Park

About 15 miles from downtown Atlanta Georgia is one of the most abundant state parks in the region. Sweetwater State Park is a relatively new state park. Though the property for the park was purchased in the mid-1970s, the construction of the facilities and the opening of the park did not take place until 2006. When it finally did open, it was a great credit to the state and has been praised as one of the most environmentally friendly facilities ever built. The park has state-of-the-art solar and reusable energy in many forms. There is a gift shop, and the visitors’ center has won awards for being the “greenest” building in the country. Perhaps the crown jewel is the Interpretive Center. This facility holds educational exhibits and fascinating wildlife displays for everyone in your group.

Sweetwater State Park gets its name from Sweetwater Creek, which runs right through the park’s center. The creek and the lakes built on the land make Sweetwater a fisherman’s haven. The park credits its rocky ledges, rolling hills, and mountain-like terrain to the Brevard Fault which also runs throughout the park. This geological fault is millions of years old, and while it has not seen movement in generations, it has made unmistakable changes to the Earth.

Chattahoochee Bend State Park

Less than an hour away from Atlanta, GA is Chattahoochee Bend State Park. Of course, this massive park of more than 2,900 acres has plenty of breathtaking views and sites. There are new facilities (the park opened in 2011) and the camping, family-friendly trails, and picnic areas are spectacular. There are always a lot of other activities at the park, so reservations are needed. The events change often, but here are a few:

• Archery at The Park
• Bingo on the River
• Glow in The Dark Bowling
• Hooch Hike and Paddle-

This begins with a 5.5-mile Riverside hike. The group is led by the tour guide and instructions are provided. Most of the trail is easy going, but some hilly areas also exist. When you get to the end of the hike, enjoy your picnic and then hop into the kayaks that the Rangers have waiting for you. You can bring your own or rent them at the park. There is an easy paddle down the river.

F. D. Roosevelt State Park

While it is a little further, check out F. D. Roosevelt State Park as well. This state park is a camping ground and swimming area about 81 miles away from Atlanta. The state park stretches over 9,049 acres and has more than 40 miles of scenic hiking trails that are perfect for hikers of all skill levels. If you are looking for incredible mountain views and winding trails to enjoy this summer, then this park is well worth the trip.

For more information on state parks in Georgia and their unique features of them, check out the Georgia Department of Natural Resources State Park and Historic Sites website.

Theodore Spaulding

When you become our client at Spaulding Injury Law, you’ll be represented by a thoroughly experienced Atlanta personal injury attorney like Theodore A. Spaulding. For over 15 years, Mr. Spaulding has helped victims of negligence across the state of Georgia resolve personal injury cases, and he’s received a remarkable number of awards and honors from the legal community recognizing his commitment to clients and to the metro-Atlanta area.

 Mr. Spaulding has been named one of the Top 100 trial lawyers in Georgia by the National Trial Lawyers for six successive years.
He is honored as a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum ® by the Top Trial Lawyers in America ®.
Charter Member of the Distinguished Justice Advocates.
Member of the Atlanta Bar Association.