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This is the first of the first day hikes at Sweetwater Creek, kicking off at the crisp time of 5 am, before the sun even rises. We'll be hiking the purple trail and the blue trail. Close toed shoes required, please dress for the weather and bring water. pre-registration is require as this program is running outside of standard operating hours. $10 plus parking fee required. 770-732-5801.
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We'll be starting our right before sunrise and enjoying the early morning light on the trails. This hike is 3 miles on the white and green trails. Please wear close toes shoes, dress for the weather and bring water. Pre-registration is required as this hike starts prior to standard operating hours. 7 plus parking fee required. 770-732-2613.
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This hike will be utilizing he paved picnic loop for a tree ID Hike. This hike is ADA accessible, wheelchair and stroller friendly.
call 770-732-2613 to register. $3 plus parking fee required. 770-732-2613.
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This 1 mile hike will be taking folks straight to the play ground, and includes time for youth to play. There is a stroller friendly option. Please dress for the weather, wear close toed shoes and bring water. $3 plus parking fee required. 770-732-2613.
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This special history hike and mill tour will be incorporated into our first day hikes, 1 mile of hiking total. Please wear close toed shoes, dress for the weather and bring water. We'll be going inside the mill ruins. $7 plus parking fee required. 770-732-5871.
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This is your very last chance to be on a first day hike! We'll be meeting in front of the visitor center at 5:30 pm. Please wear close toed shoes, dress for the weather, bring a flashlight and water. We'll be doing the purple trail. $10 plus parking fee required. 770-732-5871.
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First Annual Polar Bear Plunge!
Are you brave enough to take the plunge?
Join us for our 1st Annual Polar Bear Plunge at the beach day-use area on January 1st, at 1:00 PM! $20.00 for T-shirt and parking fee parking fee required. 706-754-7981.
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Join rangers for a 1-mile loop to the highest and most inspiring point at the gorge to reflect on your year past and greet the New Year. Watch the sun set over the gorge with hot cocoa, s'mores and a toasty campfire. Pencil and paper will also be available to write down what burdened you in 2025 and toss your troubles in the fire $7 plus parking fee required. 706-754-7981.
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Start the year off with with some hiking boots on by joining our Ranger in a guided walk along Tugaloo State Park's Muscadine Nature Trail.
This trail is approximately 3/4 miles in length and should only take 30-45 minutes to complete.
We hope to see you there!!! Parking fee required. 706-356-4362.
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Kick off the new year by joining the Ranger with a 4 mile led hike around the Sassafras Nature Trail. Hike is moderate and open to all ages. Park Pass Fee required. Parking fee required. 706-356-4362.
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Early Birds get the Worm! Come join our First Day Sunrise hike! We will start the hike at the park office leading into our Inner Loop Trail and Victoria’s Path, it’s approximately 3 miles. Along the way you will learn about the history of the park. Please wear close-toed shoes and bring a water bottle. $5 plus parking fee required. 706-245-6270.
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Night Owl’s Commence for our First Day Sunset Hike! We will start the hike at the park office leading into Victoria’s Path through the Inner Loop Trail, the hike is about 3 miles long. We will be using UV flashlights along the way! Please wear close-toed shoes and bring a water bottle. $5 plus parking fee required. 706-245-6270.
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Join us to celebrate the New Year with a healthy and moderate hike on the beautiful “Reece Farm Trail” in one of Georgia’s favorite state parks. Please dress for the weather with layered clothing, sturdy shoes or hiking boots, a hat, water, hiking stick, snacks, and a trail lunch if desired. Parking fee required. 706-745-2628.
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Start the New Year off on the right foot! Join us for a Ranger led hike celebrating 141 years of Watson Mill Bridge. We will hike through the bridge to the Hydroelectric Power Ruins and back. Hike is an easy 1.5 miles starting from Picnic Shelter 3. Bring water and wear appropriate shoes. Dogs must be on a 6 ft leash. Parking fee required. 706-783-5349.
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Run into the New Year at Watson Mill!
This is not a race but an opportunity to get your heart rate up while connecting with nature and other runners.
Route is a moderate 5K / 3.1 mile trail route covering the Hiking/Biking Trail and the Ridge Loop.
We aim for this to be the first of regular, monthly runs at the park - Strava group coming soon! Parking fee required. 706-783-5349.
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We invite families to join us for a hike – what better way to start out the new year? Surround yourself with the beauty of nearly 400 southern live oaks as we make our way down our beautiful and historic Live Oak Avenue (1.5 miles), making our way into the past and onto our Interpretive trail (.8 miles), and making our way back up the Oak Avenue. $5.25 - $14 912-353-3023.
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Let's start off the new year with a long hike at Wormsloe! Join us as we hike along the beautiful and historic Live Oak Avenue! The hike will turn around at our pollinator field, making the total hike roughly 2 miles! $5.25 - $14 912-353-3023.
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Join us for the final leg of the Coastal Historic Sites 1st Day Hike Series, where we will continue our celebration of the U.S.A.'s 250th anniversary! The Wormsloe section will be a 1/2 mile hike down the Live Oak Ave., concluded with a musket firing! Experience a rare after-hours glimpse of Wormsloe! $20. 912-353-3023.
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Explore the geologic forces that formed the canyon and the surrounding area. This moderately strenuous hike (just under 2 miles) begins at the Main Overlook and proceeds down to Cherokee Falls. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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Cloudland Canyon is the only state park that lies within the Cumberland Plateau, and the only one that contains caves. This 1hr presentation explains why this region is riddled with holes, and will introduce you to the fragile environment of caves and some of the fascinating creatures found in them. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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Let us introduce you to the nine woodpeckers of Georgia. In this thirty minute program you will learn about their diets, nesting habits, calls, and anatomical features that make them different from other birds. You can choose to stay afterwards to make a pinecone woodpecker feeder. $3 plus parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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This guided, mostly flat, 1.5 mile walk along the Overlook Trail introduces you to some of the trees and plants that stay green all year long. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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*!Pre-registration is required at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time!*
Learn how to tie a hook and catch a fish with a ranger! $10.00 per person parking fee required. 912-882-5256.
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*!Pre-registration is required at least 2 hours before the scheduled time!*
Embrace your inner curiosity as we dissect and learn about the ins and outs of one of the oceans' most common animals: The Squid! $10.00 per person parking fee required. 912-882-5256.
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It's time to get fired up! Join our rangers as we show off both the fun and the challenges of blacksmithing. Watch as we present the tools of the trade from the Civil War and the work it takes to make something beautiful! Nails, railroad ties, and more, our smithies can do it all with a little skill and a lot of love for metalworking. $5.50-$9.75 912-727-2339.
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Snuggle up next to our campfire and unwind. A park ranger will have some campfire activities planned for the night. Then we'll wrap the evening up with everyone's favorite campfire treat! 912-727-2339.
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Join us every Friday night at the Visitor Center fire ring as we welcome our weekend campers and park visitors with an enchanting family-friendly campfire program! This program will include a campfire construction demonstration, a group activity element (sing-along or interactive story), and either hot chocolate or s'mores. FREE! Parking fee required. 770-867-3489.
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Come down to Picnic Shelter 4 to enjoy some Friday Fun with a variety of different activities available each week. Activities include 2-4 player games, crafts, and trivia with a Ranger. The Ranger will also answer any nature, history, or park questions you may have. Parking fee required. 706-557-3001.
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Come down to Picnic Shelter 4 for a warm campfire and hot cocoa. A ranger will be present talking about park history, ghost stories, and fun facts about nature. Feel free to bring any nature or history questions you have to ask the ranger. Parking fee required. 706-557-3001.
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Enjoy the beauty of the Okefenokee swamp at sunset.
Take a relaxing and immersive evening tour into the swamp. Watch as the suns colors put on a show over our dark waters. $25-35 plus parking fee required. 912-637-5274.
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Hike with a Ranger along the Wild Turkey Trail to search for Hepatica - Liverwort in bloom. We will discuss its unique structure, reproductive methods, ecological role and diversity. $5 plus parking fee required. 770-254-7271.
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Couldn't make the first day hike? No problem, bring the family to the Vann House for your first Saturday hike of the new year and receive a souvenir sticker. We'll be talking about history, looking for unique birds and plants on this one-mile, moderate level hike. Leashed dogs are welcome. The hike and sticker are included in admission. $5.25 - $7 706-695-2598.
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Explore the geologic strata of the canyon from the bottom up in this advanced look at the rocks and minerals that make up the lower part of the canyon. Meet at the Interpretive Center, then we'll drive to the lower Sitton Gulch Trailhead. This is a moderate 2-mile hike. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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We love the pups here at CCSP! Bring your four-legged friends on this hike on the Overlook Trail from the interpretive Center to the Catfish Pond at the Meadowlands. This is a moderate 2-mile hike round trip. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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This peculiar looking creature has spread through two continents and is now found in nearly two dozen US states. Get the low-down on this interesting and unusual animal and learn why they are so bad at crossing roads. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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In collaboration with Camden County Audubon Society, join a Master Birder on a morning birdwatching hike. This guided hike is a little more advanced than the Birding Basics hike offered.
Meet at the Sempervirens Trailhead. Parking fee required. 912-882-5256.
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*!Pre-registration is required at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time!*
Ever wanted to see what happens after an owl consumes its prey? During this class, you will get to get a look inside your own owl pellet! Every pellet holds something different! Learn about the different types of prey owls consume and how we can help them in the wild. $10 plus parking fee required. 912-882-5256.
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Why are camouflage jokes so funny? You never see them coming! A program about how our local animals camouflage themselves in the winter, with an activity where you will get to practice your new skills! Meet at Picnic Shelter 2, call the front office to pre-register, or bring cash to the event. $1 plus parking fee required. 678-450-7726.
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Join us at the group shelter to watch an animated, PG-rated movie to end Winter Break! Doors open at 5 pm, and the movie will begin at 5:30 pm. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Call the visitor center for more information! Parking fee required. 678-450-7726.
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Celebrate monumental moments with us as we honor this year’s Georgia State Parks theme, Monumental Moments: America’s 250th! Take part in our on-site scavenger hunt and explore the park in a whole new way! Parking fee required. 706-663-4858.
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Archery Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 9 AM to 11 AM
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Archery target shooting adventure for ages 10 to adult. We provide basic instruction and equipment. Beginners welcome. Limited attendance of 12 per time slot. Groups can contact us for a special time. Pre-registration and pre-payment required by calling the park office 706-663-4858. Meet at archery field below dam. Park at boat dock. $20 plus parking fee required. 706-663-4858.
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Participants will go on a guided nature hike to explore
lichen on trees and rocks, learning about their ecological
significance from a ranger. After the hike, they'll create
botanical prints inspired by lichen, gaining a unique art
piece and appreciation for forest ecosystems. $5 plus parking fee required. 706-663-4858.
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The Highlanders came to Darien in the 1730s, along with their own meals, some strange and some familiar. Visit with a Highlander in the Highland Cottage to find out just what a Bubbly-Jock was! If ye are kind, he might share a sample... $4.75-$8.25 912-437-4770.
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Explore the park after dark with our ranger-led Super Moon Hike. During this 3-mile hike, we will observe the first full moon of 2026. $5 per person parking fee required. 912-727-2339.
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Come join us every Saturday for a long, leisurely stroll on our inner-loop (yellow trail). Bring provisions, as we typically take 3-4 hours to complete this 7-mile loop hike. Pet-friendly! This hike starts & ends at the Visitor Center parking lot. Please pre-register & pay at the Visitor Center. $5 plus parking fee required. 770-867-3489.
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Come view the year's first supermoon from the trail! We'll hike out from the Visitor Center along the paved Wilkins Greenway Trail to watch the full Wolf Moon make its rise in our sightline. This hike is fully accessible & pet-friendly. Meet at the Visitor Center fire ring. Please pre-register & pay at the Visitor Center before 5pm day of event. $5 plus parking fee required. 770-867-3489.
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At Hard Labor Creek, we have a fully functional blacksmith shop that the CCC used in the 1930's to make hinges, nails, door handles, brackets, and much more. Join the park staff to enjoy a brief history of the park, and a demonstration on how the tools in the shop worked. Parking fee required. 706-557-3001.
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This ranger-led hike will take visitors along Lake Rutledge on a portion of our Beach Trail, and then up to see one of the only Civilian Conservation Corps Camps left standing in America. Participants will learn about CCC and Hard Labor Creek history. Hike geared toward active participants 8 years old and above. Pre-registration required Parking fee required. 706-557-3001.
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Wonder why Panola Mountain is a restricted area? Come on a guided hike for a close look at our unique ecology and see how outcrop plants scrape out a living in this harsh environment. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water. Register in advance. $10 plus parking fee required. 770-389-7801.
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Join us for our first Saturday hike of 2026. One of our rangers will guide you along the red, white, and blue trail, which will take you through the ravine, to learn more about the Battle of Pickett's Mill and the historical significance of key areas of the site. $5. 770-443-7850.
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Come and meet some of our most elusive residents, the box turtles, and learn about their habits and amazing characteristics. Meet in the Interpretive Center Parking fee required. 912-598-2300.
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Join a Ranger for a guided paddle on the Okefenokee at sunset. Watch as the sky bursts with color and birds fly overhead to roost. Experience the silence and stillness of the swamp as night begins. $35 plus parking fee required. 912-637-5274.
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Explore the geologic strata of the canyon from the bottom up in this advanced look at the rocks and minerals that make up the lower part of the canyon. Meet at the Interpretive Center, then we'll drive to the lower Sitton Gulch Trailhead. This is a moderate 2-mile hike. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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In collaboration with the Camden County Audubon Society, enjoy a relaxing morning as you go on a birding adventure with a Master Birder.
This class will teach you the basics of birding as we hike and explore around Crooked River. Meeting at the Nature Center. Parking fee required. 912-882-5256.
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*!Pre-registration is required at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time!*
Enjoy a fun afternoon of building your own mini terrarium while learning about the environmental cycles that will take place within it. $10.00 plus parking fee required. 912-882-5256.
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Join us at the Highlander House as we make candles in the style of the 18th century. Learn about the life of a chandler (ye ol' candle-maker) around the fire! Take a look at this interesting process, from hand-dipping to mold pouring. $4.75 - $8.25 912-437-4770.
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iNaturalist 101 1st Sunday of Month 1 PM - 3 PM from Jan 4, 2026 until Feb 1, 2026
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We'll learn the basics of the app together, then take a hike through the rock garden along the lakeshore out to the rocky point at the fishing hole, observing species along the way. With our identifier in-hand, we'll search for birds, bugs, lizards, & snakes, and we're sure to find plenty of flora! Check-in & register at the Visitor Center. $10 plus parking fee required. 770-867-3489.
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Shelter building, fire building, knot tying: Work by yourself or as a family team to create your own shelter using the forest around you (surrounding sticks, branches, vines). Then, learn helpful skills about fire building and tying knots. All supplies provided. Geared toward ages 8 years and older. Pre-registration required. $10 plus parking fee required. 706-557-3001.
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Join a ranger on a short, hike on the Rock Outcrop Trail (0.75 mi) to learn about plants and animals that are around in the wintertime. This hike is suitable for ages 6+ and is considered a moderate hike. Call the Park Office to register. Parking fee required. 770-389-7801.
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Join a ranger for a free educational program to learn about native animals that call Panola Mountain home and what we can do to protect them. Program includes either a live snake or turtle. Meet at the Nature Center. For all ages, but recommended for children ages 5-10. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Parking fee required. 770-389-7801.
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Hike with a park naturalist through the canyon bottom to the base of Hemlock Falls. This is a four mile round trip and requires going up and down seventy-five stairs to see the falls. Meet at the Interpretive Center. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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Explore the geologic forces that formed the canyon and the surrounding area. This moderately strenuous hike (just under 2 miles) begins at the Main Overlook and proceeds down to Cherokee Falls. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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This peculiar looking creature has spread through two continents and is now found in nearly two dozen US states. Get the low-down on this interesting and unusual animal and learn why they are so bad at crossing roads. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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Come by the Interpretive Center to learn all about one of our ambassador rat snakes. You will have the opportunity to meet and touch the snake while you learn about its behavior, habitat, and more! Parking fee required. 912-598-2300.
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Cloudland Canyon is the only state park that lies within the Cumberland Plateau, and the only one that contains caves. This 1hr presentation explains why this region is riddled with holes, and will introduce you to the fragile environment of caves and some of the fascinating creatures found in them. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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This guided, mostly flat, 1.5 mile walk along the Overlook Trail introduces you to some of the trees and plants that stay green all year long. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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Learn the difference between salamanders and lizards in this program highlighting five species of the Appalachian region. We will bring to light their secretive lives with interesting facts and tales about these special creatures. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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Young children will enjoy getting out for this hour of interactive reading. Listen to nature stories perfect for children with a love of the outdoors. Meet in the Interpretive Center. Parking fee required. 912-598-2300.
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Hike the West Rim three mile loop with the park Naturalist and see the beautiful sights of Cloudland Canyon. Meet at the Interpretive Center then you will drive to the West Rim Parking area $5 plus parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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Let us introduce you to the nine woodpeckers of Georgia. In this thirty minute program you will learn about their diets, nesting habits, calls, and anatomical features that make them different from other birds. You can choose to stay afterwards to make a pinecone woodpecker feeder. $3 plus parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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Come check out our beautiful granite outcrop. It boasts various plants such as the prickly pear, reindeer lichen, green shield lichen, and animal tracks! $5 plus parking fee required. 770-254-7271.
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This program will introduce you to some of the most common and not so common fossils that may be found in the different rock strata of the Cumberland Plateau. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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Explore the geologic strata of the canyon from the bottom up in this advanced look at the rocks and minerals that make up the lower part of the canyon. Meet at the Interpretive Center, then we'll drive to the lower Sitton Gulch Trailhead. This is a moderate 2-mile hike. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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Hike with a park Naturalist on the two-mile Backcountry Campsites loop. This is an easy hike. Meet at the Interpretive Center, then we'll drive to the Backcountry Camping Trailhead. Duration Approx, 1.5 hours Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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This guided, mostly flat, 1.5 mile walk along the Overlook Trail introduces you to some of the trees and plants that stay green all year long. Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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