Monumental Moments Events

Events starting 1/1/2026


Thursday, January 1, 2026

First Day Hike: Dawn of the 250th
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 6:30 AM to 8 AM
Skidaway Island State Park - Savannah, GA
First Day Hike: Dawn of the 250th Step into history as we welcome the new year and the nation’s 250th anniversary. Join us at sunrise over the Skidaway marsh, where the golden light will illuminate the same breathtaking coastal views seen in 1776. Together, we’ll reflect on how this coast has changed since the nation’s founding and look forward to the future, one sunrise at a time. Parking fee required. 912-598-2300.
Monumental Moments Event First Day Hike Event 
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First Day Hike: Duke's Creek Falls Hike
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 1 PM to 3 PM
Smithgall Woods State Park - Helen, GA
Start your New Year's resolution off right! This hike will begin at the Visitor's Center, and we will make a pit stop approximately 1.3 miles away at our primitive cabin. There, by a toasty fire, you can warm yourself against the winter chill. If you are feeling adventurous, you can then continue an additional 1.2 miles to Duke's Creek Falls. Parking fee required. 706-878-3087.
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First Day Hike: Dawns Early Light in the Okefenokee Swamp
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 8 AM to 9 AM
Stephen C. Foster State Park - Fargo, GA
Greet the New Year in primordial beauty. Start your year on the right foot with an easy .75 mile hike on our Boardwalk Trail out into the swamp and continue if you choose with a .75 hike on the Nature Trail. Parking fee required. 912-637-5274.
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First Day Hike: Dawns Early Light in the Okefenokee Swamp
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 10 AM to 11 AM
Stephen C. Foster State Park - Fargo, GA
Greet the New Year in primordial beauty. Start your year on the right foot with an easy .75 mile hike on our Boardwalk Trail out into the swamp and continue if you choose with a .75 hike on the Nature Trail. Parking fee required. 912-637-5274.
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Before the Sun Rises First Day Hike
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 5 AM to 6:30 AM
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs, GA
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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Sunrise First Day Hike
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs, GA
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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ADA First Day Hike
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 10 AM to 12 PM
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs, GA
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.
Accessible Event Outdoors Beyond Barriers First Day Hike Event 
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Children's First Day Hike to the Playground
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 1 PM to 2 PM
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs, GA
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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Into the Mill Ruins, Starting the New Year by Looking to the Past
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs, GA
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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Last Chance! First Day Hike
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 5:30 PM to 7 PM
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs, GA
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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Polar Bear Plunge
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 1 PM to 2 PM
Tallulah Gorge State Park - Tallulah Falls, GA
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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Inspiration Loop and Sunset Burden Burn - First Day Hike
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 4 PM to 5 PM
Tallulah Gorge State Park - Tallulah Falls, GA
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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First Day Hike - Muscadine Nature Trail
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 12 PM to 1 PM
Tugaloo State Park - Lavonia, GA
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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First Day Hike 2026
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 10 AM to 12 PM
Unicoi State Park and Lodge - Helen, GA
Unicoi State Park and Lodge Start the New Year off on the right foot! Join us for a guided hike around our beautiful lake to ring in the first day of the year! Parking fee required. 706-878-2201.
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First Day Sunrise Hike at Victoria Bryant State Park
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 7 AM to 9 AM
Victoria Bryant State Park - Royston, GA
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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First Day Sunset Hike at Victoria Bryant State Park
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 5 PM to 7 PM
Victoria Bryant State Park - Royston, GA
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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First Day Hike at Vogel
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 9 AM to 11:30 AM
Vogel State Park - Blairsville, GA
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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First Day Hike- 141 Years of Watson Mill Bridge
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 10 AM to 11 AM
Watson Mill Bridge State Park - Comer, GA
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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First Day 5K
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 1 PM to 2 PM
Watson Mill Bridge State Park - Comer, GA
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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First Day Hike - Full Distance
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 10 AM to 12 PM
Wormsloe Historic Site - Savannah, GA
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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First Day Hike - Half Distance
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 2 PM to 3:30 PM
Wormsloe Historic Site - Savannah, GA
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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Monumental Moments: 1st Day Hike Through History
Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 5 PM to 7 PM
Wormsloe Historic Site - Savannah, GA
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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Friday, January 2, 2026

Hitting The Trails: Riverside Trail Hike
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 1 PM to 2 PM
Chattahoochee Bend State Park - Newnan, GA
Start your New Years Resolution with an easy 2.6-mile flat hike along the Chattahoochee River. $5 plus parking fee required. 770-254-7271.
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Let's ROCK: Geology Hike
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 10 AM to 11:30 AM
Cloudland Canyon State Park - Rising Fawn, GA
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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Holey Ground: Caves and Karst of the Cumberland Plateau
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 10 AM to 11 AM
Cloudland Canyon State Park - Rising Fawn, GA
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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Knock, Knock..Who's There?
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 to Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 - 1 PM to 1:30 AM
Cloudland Canyon State Park - Rising Fawn, GA
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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Winter Greenery: Evergreens of Cloudland Canyon
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 1 PM to 2 PM
Cloudland Canyon State Park - Rising Fawn, GA
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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Fishing FUNdamentals
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 9 AM to 10 AM
Crooked River State Park - St. Marys, GA
*!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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Squid Dissection
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 2 PM to 3 PM
Crooked River State Park - St. Marys, GA
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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Cozy by the Campfire
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Crooked River State Park - St. Marys, GA
Settle in for the night with some fun, games, and s'mores around a campfire with a ranger! Parking fee required. 912-882-5256.
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Friday at the Forge
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 10 AM to 1 PM
Fort McAllister State Park - Richmond Hill, GA
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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Fireside Fun in the Campground
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 6:30 PM
Fort McAllister State Park - Richmond Hill, GA
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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Community Campfire
Fridays 7 PM - 8 PM until Sep 4, 2026 
Fort Yargo State Park - Winder, GA
Welcome campers! Join us every Friday night at the Visitor Center fire ring for FREE s'mores or hot chocolate & interactive story or sing-along. This program is free, fully-accessible & open to the public. Parking fee required. 770-867-3489.
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Friday Fun Game Night
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 5 PM to 6 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park - Rutledge, GA
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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Campfire and Hot Cocoa
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 6 PM to 7 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park - Rutledge, GA
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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We Are Going To Explore: Kolomoki Kids First Challenge of the New Year
8 AM - 5 PM until Jan 31, 2026 
Kolomoki Mounds State Park - Blakely, GA
Children, of all ages, are encouraged to come by the Visitors Center and pick up the Challenge Form! Once they have completed their challenge, they may return it the Visitors Center to pick up their small prize. This is a 'Monumental Moments" program and each participant qualifies to receive a Monumental Moments bookmark with a Kolomoki Stamp. Parking fee required. 229-724-2150.
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Camp Lawton Tour
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 1 PM to 2 PM
Magnolia Springs State Park - Millen, GA
Gather at Camp Lawton History Center for a ranger led hike to Camp Lawton's 161 year old earthen fort. Along the way we will discover more about this Civil War prisoner of war camp built to hold 40,000 prisoners. Admission to the History Center is included. Ages 3 and under are free. $5 plus parking fee required. 478-982-1660.
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Valentine's Campfire Trivia Night
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Magnolia Springs State Park - Millen, GA
Gather around our cozy campfire at the campground picnic shelter. Enjoy roasted marshmallows and valentine trivia. Parking fee required. 478-982-1660.
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Snakes of Skidaway: Meet the Corn Snake
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 11 AM to 12 PM
Skidaway Island State Park - Savannah, GA
Come by the Interpretive Center to learn all about one of our ambassador corn 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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Sunset on the Swamp Cruise
Friday, Jan 2, 2026 5 PM to 6 PM
Stephen C. Foster State Park - Fargo, GA
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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Saturday, January 3, 2026

Hike to find the 1st Bloom of the New Year
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 1 PM to 2 PM
Chattahoochee Bend State Park - Newnan, GA
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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First Saturday Hike of 2026
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
Chief Vann House Historic Site - Chatsworth, GA
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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Bear Creek Hike
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 10 AM to 12 PM
Cloudland Canyon State Park - Rising Fawn, GA
This short but strenuous guided hike will go from the Interpretive Center down to the ford at Bear Creek (approximately 3 miles roundtrip). Parking fee required. 706-657-4050.
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Going Deep: Geology of the Canyon Bottom
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 10 AM to 11:30 AM
Cloudland Canyon State Park - Rising Fawn, GA
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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Tails on Trails
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 1 PM to 2 PM
Cloudland Canyon State Park - Rising Fawn, GA
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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Possum on the half-shell: The rise of Armadillos
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 2 PM to 2:30 PM
Cloudland Canyon State Park - Rising Fawn, GA
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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Intermediate Birding Hike
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 9 AM to 10 AM
Crooked River State Park - St. Marys, GA
Join one of our interpretive rangers 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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Regurgitation Operation
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 2 PM to 3 PM
Crooked River State Park - St. Marys, GA
*!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 per person parking fee required. 912-882-5256.
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Monumental Moments Scavenger Hunt
8 AM - 5 PM until Jan 31, 2026 
Don Carter State Park - Gainesville, GA
There is something to celebrate in Georgia history every month of the year! Ask for a scavenger hunt sheet from the visitor center and walk the Overlook Trail to learn about this month's Monumental Moments. When you return the sheet completed, you will earn a prize! Parking fee required. 678-450-7726.
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Camouflaged Critters
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 12 PM to 12:30 PM
Don Carter State Park - Gainesville, GA
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. Pre-registration required, call the visitor center to save your spot. $1 plus parking fee required. 678-450-7726.
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To Sleep or Not to Sleep: Georgia's Hibernating Animals
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM
Don Carter State Park - Gainesville, GA
A hike on the Huckleberry Trail that explores where our animals go in the wintertime. Learn the difference between hibernation, brumation, torpor, and migration. Pre-registration is required, call the visitor center to save your spot. $1 plus parking fee required. 678-450-7726.
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Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 9 AM to 4 PM
F.D. Roosevelt State Park - Pine Mountain, GA
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
F.D. Roosevelt State Park - Pine Mountain, GA
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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Lichen Lessons: Exploring Nature’s Tiny Architects
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 9:30 AM to 11 AM
F.D. Roosevelt State Park - Pine Mountain, GA
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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Bubbly-Jock and Barley - Cooking a Highlander's Fare
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 10 AM to 2 PM
Fort King George Historic Site - Darien, GA
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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cancelled Full Moon Hike
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 6:30 PM
Fort McAllister State Park - Richmond Hill, GA
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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Loop Around the Lake
Saturdays 9 AM - 12 PM  
Fort Yargo State Park - Winder, GA
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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Hike by the Light of the Moon
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 7 PM to 8 PM
Fort Yargo State Park - Winder, GA
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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Blacksmith Demo -- CANCELLED FOR 1/24
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 12 PM to 1 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park - Rutledge, GA
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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History Hike - Follow in the Steps of the CCC
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 3 PM to 4:30 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park - Rutledge, GA
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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Historic Hike: From Igneous Rock to Southern Rock CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 10 AM to 11 AM
High Falls State Park - Jackson, GA
Come learn how the Mesozoic Era, the Muscogee Creek Nation, the American Civil War, the Industrial Revolution, the Allman Brothers Band, and the Flood of '94 all shaped the land and water that is now High Falls State Park. This is a Monumental Moments event. Participants will receive a stamp on their bookmark. Parking fee required. 478-993-3053.
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Campfire Building 101
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 2 PM to 3 PM
High Falls State Park - Jackson, GA
Need to brush up on your campfire building skills? Meet at the fire ring in the Program area to learn the basics of campfire construction. Parking fee required. 478-993-3053.
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S'mores Safari
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 5 PM to 6 PM
Jack Hill State Park - Reidsville, GA
Join Jack Hill State Park for sweet treats and wild discoveries! Come treat your taste buds to some s'mores while learning about the animals that call our state of Georgia home. Parking fee required. 912-557-7744.
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We Are Going To Explore: Kolomoki Kids First Challenge of the New Year
8 AM - 5 PM until Jan 31, 2026 
Kolomoki Mounds State Park - Blakely, GA
Children, of all ages, are encouraged to come by the Visitors Center and pick up the Challenge Form! Once they have completed their challenge, they may return it the Visitors Center to pick up their small prize. This is a 'Monumental Moments" program and each participant qualifies to receive a Monumental Moments bookmark with a Kolomoki Stamp. Parking fee required. 229-724-2150.
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Crafts at the Park
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 2 PM to 3 PM
Laura S. Walker State Park - Waycross, GA
Join us at the Interpretive Center for crafts for all ages! There are many crafts to choose from. Let your imagination run wild and create something truly original. Pre-register at the Visitor Center prior to the craft. We will see you there! $5 plus parking fee required. 912-287-4900.
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Lake Trail Sunset Hike
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 5 PM to 6:30 PM
Laura S. Walker State Park - Waycross, GA
Join our Naturalist on a guided hike down our Lake Trail! We will stop on our boardwalk to admire the sunset! Please bring a flashlight for the hike back so we can check out our Park after dark. We will meet at the Interpretive Center to hit he trail! Sign up at the Visitor Center prior to the event. We will see you there! $3 plus parking fee required. 912-287-4900.
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Hand Dipped Candles
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 10 AM to 10:30 AM
Magnolia Springs State Park - Millen, GA
Make your own old fashioned hand dipped candle at Camp Lawton History Center, Ages 6 and up $3 plus parking fee required. 478-982-1660.
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Camp Lawton: Prison Life
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 1 PM to 2 PM
Magnolia Springs State Park - Millen, GA
Camp Lawton held over 10,000 Civil War prisoners of war in late 1864. Join us at Camp Lawton History Center for a ranger led hike to the spring that provided essential clean drinking water. Along the way, we will discover more about these prisoners’ struggle for survival. Admission to the History Center is included. Ages 3 and under free. $5 plus parking fee required. 478-982-1660.
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Beginners Archery
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 3 PM to 4 PM
Magnolia Springs State Park - Millen, GA
Try your hand with a compound or recurve bow after learning the basics from a certified instructor. Archery equipment will be provided. Ages 8 and up $10 plus parking fee required. 478-982-1660.
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Guided Mountain Hike
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 9 AM to 12 PM
Panola Mountain State Park - Stockbridge, GA
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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First Saturday Hike
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 10 AM to 11 AM
Pickett's Mill Battlefield Historic Site - Dallas, GA
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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Unboxing the Box Turtle
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 1 PM to 2 PM
Skidaway Island State Park - Savannah, GA
Come 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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Life and Times of the Okefenokee
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 3:45 PM to 4:30 PM
Stephen C. Foster State Park - Fargo, GA
Learn more about the rich lives of the people who have lived here in the Okefenokee. Get up close and personal to historic tools and step back in time with period photos of our swamp. Parking fee required. 912-637-5274.
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Sunset on the Okefenokee Swamp Paddle
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 5 PM to 6 PM
Stephen C. Foster State Park - Fargo, GA
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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Campfires 101
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 1 PM to 2 PM
Tallulah Gorge State Park - Tallulah Falls, GA
Join us in the conference room of the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center to learn how to safely build and extinguish a campfire, and to build your own edible campfire! $5 plus parking fee required. 706-754-7981.
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Full Moon Hike
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 6:15 PM to 7:45 PM
Tallulah Gorge State Park - Tallulah Falls, GA
Hike 310 stairs to the suspension bridge to watch the moon rise above the gorge $10 per a person parking fee required. 706-754-7981.
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Explore the Nature Hut
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 2 PM to 4 PM
Tugaloo State Park - Lavonia, GA
Come by the Nature Hut to see some taxidermied animals you would see in the area and take the opportunity to meet two of our live snakes! Parking fee required. 706-456-4362.
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Sunday, January 4, 2026

Going Deep: Geology of the Canyon Bottom
Sunday, Jan 4, 2026 10 AM to 11:30 AM
Cloudland Canyon State Park - Rising Fawn, GA
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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Birding Basics
Sunday, Jan 4, 2026 9 AM to 10 AM
Crooked River State Park - St. Marys, GA
Enjoy a relaxing morning as you go on a birding adventure with one of our interpretive rangers. 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.
Wild Georgia Event 
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Pocket Park
Sunday, Jan 4, 2026 2 PM to 3 PM
Crooked River State Park - St. Marys, GA
*!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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Monumental Moments Scavenger Hunt
8 AM - 5 PM until Jan 31, 2026 
Don Carter State Park - Gainesville, GA
There is something to celebrate in Georgia history every month of the year! Ask for a scavenger hunt sheet from the visitor center and walk the Overlook Trail to learn about this month's Monumental Moments. When you return the sheet completed, you will earn a prize! Parking fee required. 678-450-7726.
Monumental Moments Event 
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Chat with a Chandler
Sunday, Jan 4, 2026 1 PM to 4 PM
Fort King George Historic Site - Darien, GA
Join us 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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Walk With a Ranger
Sundays 9 AM - 11 AM  
Fort Yargo State Park - Winder, GA
-CANCELLED 9/14/25- Come meet our naturalist on a leisurely, 2-3 mile stroll through our bird sanctuary around the Wilkins Greenway Trail. We'll head out from the Visitor Center to find a forest habitat teeming with songbirds, and we may even spot a beaver! This event is stroller & pet-friendly. Every Sunday 9 AM & 11 AM. $3 plus parking fee required. 770-867-3489.
Accessible Event Wild Georgia Event 
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iNaturalist 101
1st Sunday of Month 1 PM - 3 PM until Feb 1, 2026 
Fort Yargo State Park - Winder, GA
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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Survival Skills
Sunday, Jan 4, 2026 1 PM to 2:30 PM
Hard Labor Creek State Park - Rutledge, GA
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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