Georgia might be known for its beaches and southern hospitality, but it should also be known for its parks. This coastal state is home to some of the country's most amazing national parks, from its sandy shores to its historic and protected battlegrounds. With the best of both worlds - the beach and the mountains - Georgia also offers the most in scenery for those visiting.
With plenty of history to learn about and the beautiful landscape that paves the way for a good portion of the Appalachian Trail, here are some of Georgia's most amazing national parks worth visiting.
10 Appalachian National Scenic Trail
The section of the Appalachian Trail that stretches through Georgia is designated as a national park, and one does not need to be a thru-hiker in order to experience its beauty. While the trail extends through 14 states, it either begins or ends (depending on where a hiker starts) on Springer Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest. With plenty of wildlife to observe and trails to seek out, this is the perfect place for those looking to spend a few days in Georgia's backwoods.
9 Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
Located in northern Georgia, this national recreation area is an easy day trip from the bustling city of Atlanta. With 48 miles of river to explore, it's a favorite for hiking enthusiasts as well as those who partake in recreational water sports. It's important to note that anyone who plans on boating or fishing along the river should check the dam water levels before heading out.
8 Chickamauga And Chattanooga National Military Park
Calling all history buffs! This national military park is a must-visit for anyone who's interested in Civil War-era history. Places of interest include both the Chickamauga and Lookout Battlefields, as well as the park's many memorials dedicated to the war. Additionally, visitors can find informational exhibits For those looking for a scenic view, the summit of Lookout Mountain is the perfect place to gaze down at the state line and Tennessee River.
7 Jimmy Carter National Historic Park
Those interested in presidential history will be happy to spend some time at this national historic park, which is also home to the late president's childhood home. Located in Plains, Georgia, this park is also home to an old train depot and the Plains High School, which is also the visitor center. The Rosalynn Carter Gallery, The Carter Center, and the Carter Presidential Library and Museum should also be on the list of stops when visiting this park.
6 Cumberland Island National Seashore
Georgia has a little something for everyone when it comes to national parks and protected land, and that includes the Cumberland Island National Seashore. It's worth the drive to reach St. Mary's before hopping on the ferry to Cumberland Island if only to experience its practically untouched coastal beauty for oneself. The beach is often home to wild horses that inhabit its undisturbed beaches, which is a big draw for those visiting the area.
5 Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
Yet another Civil War-era park, Kennesaw Mountain covers an incredible distance of more than 2,900 acres. After stopping at the visitor center, it only makes sense to tackle one of many of the park's hiking trails. With more than 20 miles of trails to explore, it's easy enough to spend an entire day here learning about the iconic battle that took place beneath the feet of its visitors. This is also one of the most visited parks in Georgia, as well as in the U.S., as a whole.
4 Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park
Visitors to Atlanta should not leave without visiting Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park, which details the incredible life story and mission of the late civil rights activist and leader. Included in this park are protected sites such as the Ebenezer Baptist Church which is where MLK Jr.'s father preached before he joined as a co-pastor, the King Center which is where visitors can find exhibits detailing his life's work in Freedom Hall, and the King Birth Home, where he was born in 1929.
3 Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park
Located in central Georgia, this national park is open to visitors year-round and is home to a unique archeological site. While there are trails that hikers can follow through the park, the main draw is its ceremonial mounds, along with its 12,000-year history that dates back to the Pleistocene Epoch. Additionally, this land also played a role in the European Exploration and the Revolutionary War, making it multi-faceted in the eyes of history buffs.
2 Andersonville National Historic Site
This historic site is also home to a historic Civil War-era prison, as well as the National Prisoner of War Museum and the National Cemetery. The prison, which was built by the Confederacy, was intended to hold Union soldiers who were captured during battle. The nearby cemetery was created as a final resting place for the prisoners who lost their lives while imprisoned here, dealing with conditions that were less than ideal, which is what gave the prison such a reputation. Today, visitors will learn the history of each of these areas as they walk through its many historic sites.
1 Fort Pulaski National Monument
While not a full park in the traditional sense of the word, this national monument is home to a historic fort not far from Savannah. Visitors can walk the grounds surrounding the unique fort, which became crucial to the Civil War fought in Georgia, as it maintained control of the Savannah River. The surrounding wetlands are incredibly scenic, and it's a great place for both history buffs as well as nature lovers.