Want to go somewhere for Earth Day? Tripadvisor says these are Georgia's best state parks
Earth Day is an international holiday on April 22 that recognizes the importance of preserving the environment, celebrating both its practical functions and its natural beauty. This is an ideal time for having some fun outdoors, and one of the best spots you can do that is at a local park.
There are more than 60 Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites and 11 national parks in the Peach State. So besides looking at whichever is closest to home, how do you choose which are the best to visit? Tripadvisor has an up-to-date ranking of the best-reviewed state parks in Georgia. Here's a look at the best of the best, according to Tripadvisor, and what they have to offer:
1. Stone Mountain Park
1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain
"Stone Mountain Park is Georgia's most visited attraction," said Explore Georgia. "With more than 3,200 acres, the park is a unique destination where guests can experience an exciting variety of attractions, entertainment, and recreation."
The main focal point is the huge, carved mountain that can be hiked up or flown up to in the Skyride. There are 15 miles of hiking trails as well as fishing, kayaking, and paddle board opportunities on Stone Mountain Lake. You can also camp — and "glamp" — on the grounds. There are even some yurts available to rent. The main park has a ton of things-to-do, but one of the biggest attractions is the laser-light show displayed on the side of the mountain.
If you want to celebrate Earth Day early and get a taste of prehistoric fun, Dino Fest is currently at Stone Mountain Park, but only on weekends.
It costs $20 to get into the Stone Mountain area and the family-fun park costs about $40. For more information, go to stonemountainpark.com.
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2. Amicalola Falls State Park
418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd, Dawsonville
"Spectacular scenery and hiking trails make Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge one of Georgia's most popular state parks," said Explore Georgia.
It's home to more than 1,500 acres of mountainous terrain and one of the highest waterfalls in the south at 729 feet. There are diverse walking and hiking trails, with the most popular being the eight-mile Approach Trail leading from the park to Springer Mountain. Zip-lining and 3-D archery are among the attractions. Amicalola is also one of five Georgia State Parks with a lodge and restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
A parking pass is $5. Camping prices vary, but lodge rooms sit around $200 a night. For more info, go to amicalolafallslodge.com.
3. Wormsloe State Historic Site
7601 Skidaway Rd, Savannah
"A breathtaking avenue sheltered by live oaks and Spanish moss leads to the tabby ruins of Wormsloe, the colonial estate of Noble Jones," said Explore Georgia. "Jones was a humble carpenter who arrived in Georgia in 1733 with James Oglethorpe and the first group of settlers from England. Wormsloe's tabby ruin is the oldest standing structure in Savannah."
There is a museum filled with historic artifacts discovered at Wormsloe. The interpretive nature trail leads past the tabby ruins and long the marsh to the Colonial Life Area. During special events, there are historical interpreters and actors dressed in period-accurate outfits while demonstrating tools and skills of colonial Georgia. Five more miles of nature trails are also available for those who are more adventurous.
Admission is $12 for ages 18-61, $9 for older seniors, $5.75 for ages 6-17, and $3.25 for younger children. For more info, go to gastateparks.org/Wormsloe.
4. Tallulah Gorge State Park
338 Jane Hurt Yarn Rd, Tallulah Falls
"Get ready to be amazed by the beautiful waterfalls, landscape and scenery," said Explore Georgia. "One of the most spectacular canyons in the eastern U.S., Tallulah Gorge is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep."
There are multiple ways to enjoy the views of Tallulah Gorge including a suspension bridge 80 feet high, rim trails to multiple outlooks, and permits are available for those wanting to hike the gorge floor. There is a paved path and a 10-mile trail for mountain bikers. A 63-acre lake nearby features a sandy beach for waterfront fun. The Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center details the area's Victorian history and its complex ecosystem.
A parking pass is $5. For more info, go to gastateparks.org/TallulahGorge.
5. Cloudland Canyon State Park
122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn
"Breathtaking views await," said Explore Georgia. "Located on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, this is one of the most scenic parks in the state, offering rugged geology and beautiful vistas."
There's plenty to see at Cloudland Canyon from thousand-foot deep canyons and caves to sandstone cliffs and waterfalls. Thirty miles of cycling trails are on site with bike available for rent for half and full days, in addition to the 64 miles of hiking trails. Caves can be toured by reservation. Both cottages and yurts are available for more up-scale camping on top of the more than 100 other campsites. There is also disc golf and a fishing pond.
A parking pass is $5. For more info, go to gastateparks.org/CloudlandCanyon.
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More state, national parks located in Georgia
While the ones above are Tripadvisor's best, maybe others work better for your outing. Here are the rest of the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites plus national parks located in Georgia:
This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Georgia's best state parks, according to Tripadvisor