Cartersville is a beautiful area in north Georgia, rich with amazing parks and natural attractions. Here are the top 5 best parks and nature attractions in Cartersville, according to Trip Advisor in 2021!

1. Etowah Indian Mounds State Park

This important prehistoric site is a great place to spend the day! With a hiking trail to the mounds, a museum with Native American artifacts, and of course the intriguing mounds themselves, Etowah Indian Mounds State Park is an excellent choice for a family adventure or a hike with your significant other!

 “My husband and I took a morning to go up the road to visit Etowah Indian Mounds. We’ve started to check out the Ga State parks and this was next on our list. I thought this would be just putting a check mark by the name but, boy, was i wrong! We went around the middle of November, the leaves were still very pretty and the day was chilly but sunny. The museum is well laid out and gives easy and interesting info about the Indians that lived here. The mounds are impressive and the walk by the Etowah River and along the perimeter led to some interesting observations as to the life of these long ago GA inhabitants. This is a lovely use of a few hours.” –Melissa from Carrollton, Georgia

2. Red Top Mountain State Park

With 15 miles of trails for hiking enthusiasts, this park is great for nature photography, fishing, shore walks, and swimming when the weather is warm! Complete with an 1860s homestead, bike paths, and picnic shelters, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the beautiful state park!

 “We spent three nights tent camping, right on the lake. This is a beautiful area, with a well kept and clean camping area. Campground was very quiet during the week. We felt completely safe and happy here. If you like boating, fishing, swimming, or hiking, this is the place to visit.” –Steve from Arcadia, Florida

3. Pine Mountain Recreation Area

Another great park situated in the mountains is Pine Mountain Recreation Area. With hiking and biking trails, and some breathtaking views from atop Pine Mountain, this is a great park for those who enjoy primitive hiking! A destination hike for locals and visitors alike, this shaded path boasts beautiful trees and wildlife.

 “The Pine Mountain trail is easy to find, just turn east off of the Main Street Exit in Cartersville and you run into the adequately large parking lot. I hiked the west trail loop in about 2 hours which includes some strenuous steep sections. Most of the trail is moderate so do not avoid this trail because of a few steep sections. The sunset view from the summit was spectacular. The trail is well marked and well maintained.” –Doctor from Savannah, Georgia

4. Cooper’s Furnace Day Use Area

History, hiking, picnics, and fishing, are just some of the many ways to enjoy a day at Cooper’s Furnace. Because of a large dam, which you can hike to the top of for a great view, this spot isn’t open for swimming, but that shouldn’t be a problem with so many other ways to enjoy this beautiful area!

 “Located down a dirt road on the dry side of the dam oppositeLake Allatoona his site of former cannonball making forge is an ideal place for a family outing. Pavilions with grills and picnic tables are available. grassy lawns beckons children’s games. The park is clean, well kept and secure. Uphill hike to get to the top of the dam is sure to work off lunch. It’s set at the edge of the river though swimming is not allowed due to discharge from the dam.” –Reviewer from Gainesville, Georgia

5. Allatoona Pass

Lake Allatoona has no shortage of day use areas and trails, but Allatoona Pass is a month the highest rated of all areas around the lake. The site of one of the Civil War’s worst battles, this area is now home to historic markers and beautiful trails. It makes a great place to get out into nature and reflect.

 “I’ve been here many times just to walk and sit by the river. Especially beautiful in the fall. There is a small memorial area to several units who fought here during the civil war that is also interesting. Nice place to bring visitors. Beautiful Views of Lake Allatoona.” –Denise from Atlanta, Georgia