Most Georgia State Parks offer a variety of hiking trails for visitors. Hike up mountain terrain, along rivers and hillsides or through a thick forest. Hard-surfaced trails suitable for wheelchairs and strollers are found at Amicalola Falls, John Tanner, Mistletoe, Panola Mountain, Red Top Mountain, Stephen C. Foster and Tallulah Gorge state parks.
Paddle boats, motorized boats, canoes, kayaks, etc. are available at Georgia State Parks with rivers and large lakes. These parks will have boat ramps and docks, and at a few newer parks, marinas. Boats can be rented by the hour, but are typically not available during the winter or during a drought. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources reminds boaters under the age of 16 that there is a minimum age requirement to operate a boat or personal watercraft (PWC) on public lakes and waterways. Young boaters can satisfy the minimum age requirements of this law by taking a boating safety course or by operating a boat under the supervision or in the accompaniment of an adult. Stephen C. Foster State Park offers guided boat tours for visitors who prefer not to rent boats.
Outdoor pavilions and covered picnic tables can be reserved for a small fee at Georgia State Parks. The area surrounding the pavilion or table is usually paved with at least one barbecue grill present. Reservations must be made in advance of arriving at the park. Remember to reserve well in advance of popular holidays such as the Fouth of July and Labor Day.
Fishing is a popular sport in most state parks in Georgia. Visitors can borrow fishing equipment at no charge in Georgia State Parks, however, a fishing license is required for guests 16 or older. Apply electronically for a fishing license at the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division.
