Georgia’s 5 Best State Parks

Georgia has it all: the Appalachian Mountains, stunning waterfalls, the Little Grand Canyon, natural wonders, historic sites, breathtaking views. With state parks located all over the beautiful landscape, here are our top 5 best state parks in Georgia!


Providence Canyon State Park in Columbus

Providence Canyon State Park in Columbus

Known as “The Little Grand Canyon”, this unique state park features Providence Canyon, known as one of the 7 natural wonders of the state of Georgia. The canyon itself formed due to erosion, leaving exposed cliffs with stunning white, orange, red, and brown layers, showing the soil and rock composition of the area. You can enjoy nature trails and scenic views around this 1,003-acre park, camp or enjoy a picnic on the property, and learn about the erosion and natural history of the area.

Stephen C. Foster State Park in Fargo

Stephen C. Foster State Park in Fargo

On the edge of another one of Georgia’s natural wonders – the Okefenokee Swamp – Stephen C. Foster State Park offers guests a 402,000-acre wildlife refuge to explore. Teeming with wildlife, this park does guided boat rides, sunset tours, and offers some spectacular camping and cottage options. It’s also one of the best places to gaze at the stars!

Indian Springs State Park in Flovilla

Indian Springs State Park in Flovilla

One of the oldest state parks in the country, the river and lake at Indian Springs is fed by a unique natural artesian spring, which is famous for its mineral-rich waters. Enjoy a weekend of boating, fishing, hiking, and camping, or come for a day trip to visit the museum, wade in the creek, and go sight-seeing.

George L. Smith State Park in Twin City

George L. Smith State Park in Twin City

The natural beauty of this blackwater lake dotted with old cypress trees is one to remember. With plenty of campsites, cottages, and picnic areas, this is a great place to visit and enjoy the plethora of hiking trails and explore the lake in a boat or kayak. Spanish miss drapes the trees, and Georgia’s state reptile, the gopher tortoise, lives here.

Cloudland Canyon State Park in Rising Fawn

Cloudland Canyon State Park in Rising Fawn

Overlooking the deep gorge of Lookout Mountain in northwest Georgia is Cloudland Canyon State Park. Absolutely stunning vistas, waterfalls, caves, and wilderness trails make this a must-visit state park. With day areas, campsites, cottages, and yurts, this makes a great place to spend a weekend and explore one of the largest parks in the state.