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Recent Press Releases:
ATLANTA, February 6, 2012 -- Even in nature, “there’s an app for that.” The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced a new mobile app for both iPhones and Androids. The Georgia DNR Pocket Ranger®Mobile Tour Guide uses some of the most advanced GPS smartphone technology to provide outdoor enthusiasts with features to enhance their visits. Developed by ParksByNature Network, the free app is available by visiting Apple iTunes, Android Market or StateParkApps.com.
ATLANTA, GA, February 3, 2012 -- Everyone knows that exercise is one key to being healthy, but not everyone enjoys going to the gym. Georgia’s State Park system has teamed up with the Georgia Association of Physician Assistants (GAPA) to make healthy living a bit more fun. Through the new “Rx for Fitness” Program, physician assistants can prescribe healthy hikes in the great outdoors, and patients can turn in their “prescriptions” for free park passes.
ATLANTA, GA., January 30, 2012 – Those who love hiking, fishing and other outdoor pursuits can save money during 2012 with an Annual Georgia ParkPass. The $50 pass covers the usual $5 parking fee at all of Georgia’s State Parks, such as Amicalola Falls, Fort Yargo and Skidaway Island. The pass can be a big savings for those who made New Year’s resolutions to get more exercise.
ATLANTA, GA., January 30, 2012 – Chilly February is when many of us start daydreaming about warmer weather and weekend escapes. The newly published “2012 Guide to Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites” is the perfect resource for planning a quick getaway, spring break and summer vacation. The free, 64-page booklet is filled with tips on the state’s best hiking and biking trails, top fishing spots, affordable accommodations, family reunion destinations and more.
ATLANTA, January 25, 2012– The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced new mountain bike trail fees and passes at three state parks. Beginning March 1, a $2 daily or $25 annual pass will be required at Fort Yargo, Hard Labor Creek and Unicoi state parks. The existing $3 trail fee at Fort Mountain State Park will not change.
ATLANTA, January 5, 2012– Spring Break can be easy on the waistline and wallet with budget-friendly adventures from Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites. With more than 60 state parks and historic sites to choose from, families will find endless outdoor fun nearby, without paying hefty airplane fares or gas prices. From free days to overnight staycations under the moonlight, Georgia’s state parks offer five easy ways to get out, get fit, and have tons of fun this Spring Break:
ATLANTA, December 20, 2011 -- The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has scheduled two public meetings to discuss proposed mountain bike trail fees at three state parks. DNR officials are considering charging a $2 fee at Fort Yargo, Hard Labor Creek and Unicoi state parks to help offset operational and maintenance costs.
ATLANTA, December 5, 2011 -- All across the country, State Parks are inviting families to start the New Year with a “First Day Hike” and a commitment to healthy living. In Georgia, a dozen state parks have planned guided hikes where families can connect with nature and even re-connect with each other. The nationwide event is sponsored by America’s State Parks, with New Year’s Day hikes being led in all 50 states.
ATLANTA, November 18, 2011 – Georgia’s State Parks provide families and couples alike a staycation alternative for the holidays and long winter months ahead. From festive Christmas packages and golf retreats to winter rates with savings up to 30%, Georgia’s State Parks offer a cozy and affordable vacation getaway without the hustle and bustle of traffic and crowds. Below is a sampling of the holiday and winter packages currently available.
ATLANTA, November 3, 2011 -- The votes are in. When Georgians want to get out and play, state parks are often their favorite destinations. In Georgia Magazine’s recent Reader’s Choice Awards, three state parks in the mountains and one historic site near Columbus received top honors.
October 2011 -- Celebrity Chef and Georgia native Todd English introduced a “Healthy Picnic in the Park” menu recently to support Georgia State Parks and invite citizens to use the Tons of Fun Fitness Challenge for healthy outdoor activity. The event was held at the St. Regis Hotel in Atlanta and attended by program partners and members of the media. Sponsors included Big Green Egg, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, Farmer D Organics, FreshPoint, Honest Tea, Springer Mountain Farms and High Country Outfitters.
ATLANTA, GA - September 15, 2011 – Georgia’s State Parks & Historic Sites make holiday shopping easy on the wallet and waistline by providing gift ideas that encourage outdoor recreation and fitness, and also give back by helping protect Georgia’s natural and historic resources.
ATLANTA, October 10, 2011 -- Celebrate fall’s arrival with a free day dedicated to healthy living, outdoor recreation and fresh, local food. Browse a farmer’s market, learn about organic gardening and composting, and even enjoy a free “picnic in the park” created by celebrity chef Todd English. The day will be filled with guided hikes, a climbing wall, geocaching clinics, walking shelter dogs, outdoor games and more. Panola Mountain State Park is just southeast of Atlanta, showcasing a unique granite outcrop, paved biking trail, shaded hiking trails, fishing ponds, playground and nature center.
ATLANTA, GA (September 12, 2011) – Every October, Georgia’s forests transform into a brilliant blanket of red, orange and gold, inspiring leaf peepers to pull out their cameras and lace up their hiking boots. To help track the changing leaves and plan autumn escapes, Georgia’s State Parkswill launch Leaf Watch 2011 beginning October 1 at GeorgiaStateParks.org/LeafWatch.
ATLANTA, August 5, 2011 ~~ Hiking to the top of the Southeast’s tallest waterfall isn’t good just for your soul; it’s good for your health as well. That’s the basic message of the Georgia State Park system’s new “Tons of Fun Fitness Challenge” kicking off this summer. To help combat the growing obesity epidemic, officials are reminding citizens that nature holds the key to healthy lifestyles through exercise and nutrition, and that outdoor recreation can be a lot more fun than traditional exercise routines.
ATLANTA, GA., July 18, 2011 ~~ Three of Georgia’s State Parks – Little Ocmulgee, Amicalola Falls and Florence Marina ~~ are currently in the Top 10 list vying to be named “America’s Favorite Park” and win a $100,000 grant. The contest is part of the America Is Your Park campaign which encourages families to get active outdoors.
ATLANTA, GA, June 23, 2011 ~~ RV campers have always saved money by traveling with everything they need, from their own bed to the kitchen sink. Now they can save even more by frequenting Georgia’s many state parks. The new Georgia State Parks’ RV Club rewards avid campers with a free night after staying for nine. Club membership is free.
July 6, 2011 ~~ Outdoor Nation Summer Youth Summits Build Momentum in Atlanta
Youth-led Movement for the Outdoors Plans Agenda—with more than $100,000 in Dedicated Funding for Youth Project Ideas—to Expand Access, Activity, and Appreciation
NEWNAN, GA, June 20, 2011 ~~ On July 1, Georgia will unveil its newest state park, Chattahoochee Bend. Located in northwest Coweta County off Flat Rock Road, the park protects seven miles of river frontage and has been eagerly anticipated by paddlers, campers and anglers. A public grand-opening ceremony is scheduled for 11 a.m. at the park’s visitor center. State Rep. Lynn Smith and Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Mark Williams are scheduled to speak.
ATLANTA, GA, June 15, 2011 ~~ For years, golfers have enjoyed challenging play and rates as low as $25 on Georgia’s State Park Golf Courses. Now, they can save even more with the new Golf Club Member Card. For a $25 annual fee, golfers can enjoy a variety of discounts and specials at nine award-winning, well maintained courses across the state.
ATLANTA, JUNE 13, 2011 – Grab your beach towels, pack a picnic and spend the Fourth of July weekend at your favorite Georgia State Park. From lakeside swimming beaches to shaded picnic areas and playgrounds, a Georgia State Park visit is a great way to build lasting family memories that are also easy on the pocketbook.
ATLANTA, June 6, 2011 – Georgia residents don’t need to get down and dirty this summer to help plant trees for their state parks. With the ease of a mouse click, visitors to www.odwalla.com/plantatree can designate a tree to be planted in Georgia through the Odwalla Plant a Tree program – a partnership to support the environment and help with important reforestation and planting initiatives.
ATLANTA, GA – May 9, 2011 – Give Dad a gift that keeps him happy and fit in the great outdoors with four budget-friendly ideas from Georgia State Parks. Whether Dad enjoys golfing, fishing, camping, hiking or just a quiet weekend away, a gift from Georgia State Parks is sure to please. Several of the parks have even planned special events for families celebrating the day outdoors. For a calendar of events, photo galleries and details on all of Georgia's State Parks, visit www.GeorgiaStateParks.org.
ATLANTA, May 24, 2011 ~~ Swimming Beaches and Pools, Junior Ranger Camps, Free Park Admission and Affordable Lodging Provide Families Gas-Friendly Summer Recreation
PINE MOUNTAIN, GA., May 16, 2011 ~~ The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced that F.D. Roosevelt State Park's Liberty Bell swimming pool will not open this summer. Like other state parks across Georgia, the Pine Mountain attraction is moving toward becoming less dependent on state revenues for operation.
TRENTON, GA, May 3, 2011 ~~ After Cloudland Canyon State Park announced its “Name the Waterfalls” contest in February, more than 800 park fans submitted suggestions for the two cascades. Names ranged from long-forgotten Cherokee words to those honoring loved ones. Picking just two was difficult, with park officials choosing names that described the waterfalls’ scenery and reflected on their Native American past. Waterfall #1 will now be called Cherokee Falls and Waterfall #2 will be named Hemlock Falls.
ATLANTA, April 27, 2011 ~~ DNR will soon launch a new geocaching quest that involves 14 state historic sites and requires players to learn about Georgia’s rich and varied history.
The History Trail GeoChallenge kicks off May 14 at Kolomoki Mounds Historic Park in southwest Georgia, but the game can be played any time throughout the year.
ATLANTA, April 14, 2011 ~~ The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently awarded $2.1 million in Recreational Trails Program grants to 25 government agencies. The grants will assist with the construction and maintenance of trails and trailheads throughout the state.
ATLANTA, March 1, 2011 – Just in time for Spring Break, Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites are offering five top ways to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank. From affordable golf to overnight adventures, and from animal programs to hayrides, the parks have something for all ages and interests.
STOCKBRIDGE, GA, March 23, 2011 ~~ A new archery range at Panola Mountain State Park in Stockbridge is now available for archers, bow hunters, youth groups and others interested in perfecting their traget skills. The public grand opening celebration is set for 9 a.m. on Thursday, April 7, with hotdogs and hamburgers provided by Friends of Panola Mountain State Park.
TRENTON, GA, February 24, 2011 ~~ Deep within one of north Georgia’s most scenic state parks are two waterfalls that have never had formal names. In fact, officials have always called them simply “waterfall #1” and “waterfall #2.” Now the rangers at Cloudland Canyon State Park have decided they would like help in christening the waterfalls with names that are as pretty as the falls themselves.
February 25, 2011, Fargo, Ga. – The newly opened Suwannee River Eco-Lodge in Clinch County is a welcome addition to those planning meetings, weddings, reunions and retreats in southeast Georgia. Located near the famed Okefenokee Swamp, it is an affordable and unique destination for groups as well as individuals.
Helen, Ga., February 17, 2011 -- When Georgia Mountain BirdFest kicks off this spring at Unicoi State Park, it will be northern Georgia’s only major birding festival. With more than 60 field trips, programs and hands-on activities to choose from, it is open to birders of all ages and skill levels. Ornithologist Marshall Iliff of Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Giff Beaton, author of Birding Georgia, will be among the many guest speakers.
ATLANTA, GA., February 1, 2011 – Outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy Georgia’s many state parks can save money with a 2011 Annual ParkPass. The $50 pass exempts visitors from paying the $5 parking fee at state parks such as Amicalola Falls, Red Top Mountain, Kolomoki Mounds and Skidaway Island.
ATLANTA, GA., February 1, 2011 – Chilly February is when many of us start daydreaming about warmer breezes and weekend escapes. The newly published “2011 Guide to Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites” is the perfect resource for planning quick getaways, spring breaks and summer staycations.
ATLANTA, January 18, 2011 – Couples looking for a romantic escape can warm up with great savings and take advantage of smaller crowds at Georgia State Parks this winter. Through February 28, 2011, solitude-seekers can book a lodge room, cottage, campsite or yurt and save 25% on weekends (Friday and Saturday) and 30% on weeknights (Sunday through Thursday), based on availability.
ATLANTA, January 24, 2011 - Longer days, warmer weather and eye-catching blooms like dogwoods, azaleas and irises are sure signs of Spring. To celebrate the season, Georgia State Park rangers are hosting a series of guided wildflower hikes throughout the state providing nature enthusiasts a close-up look at these spectacular blooms.
ATLANTA, (DEC. 8, 2010) – On Saturday and Sunday, December 4 and 5, the Georgia Junior Golf Tour (GJGT) closed the season with the Champion’s Cup at Little Ocmulgee’s Wallace Adams golf course in McRae, Ga. The top 15 places from each age division played the par 72 course in pairs. The 6,625 yard course was full of challenges and required a great deal of skill to maneuver the green.
ATLANTA, August 11, 2010 – The end of summer doesn’t have to mean the end of fun in the great outdoors. As Labor Day approaches, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages families to get outdoors over the holiday weekend and continue enjoying outdoor activities into the fall.
CORDELE, GA. (July 29, 2010) – Beloved storybook character Thomas the Tank Engine™ is set to roll into Georgia Veterans State Park for the Day Out With Thomas tour this October. Children of all ages will have the chance to ride a real train, meet characters such as Sir Topham Hatt™, play with Mega Bloks™, join in on storytelling and crafts, and more. Thomas the Tank Engine™ is presented by HIT Entertainment, a worldwide leader in children’s entertainment.
ATLANTA, GA., November 3, 2010 – Wrap up a gift from Georgia’s State Parks & Historic Sites and give a year of fun while protecting Georgia’s most precious places. A gift of the outdoors is a healthy alternative to clothing and gadgets, and it’s a practical option for those who seem to have it all.
ATLANTA, GA, September 1, 2010 – For many people, the perfect autumn weekend includes cozy campfires, gooey s’mores and fiery-hued forests. To help leaf peepers plan their fall escapes, Georgia’s state parks will soon launch “Leaf Watch 2010” in partnership with Georgia Forestry Commission to track fall color as it moves across the Peach State and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
ATLANTA, GA, August 24, 2010 ~~ Put away your wallet and pull out your fishing pole or hiking boots. Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites is offering free admission on Saturday, September 25 as part of National Public Lands Day. The statewide celebration is a way to thank park visitors and volunteers for their support of outdoor recreation and historic preservation.
RICHMOND HILL, GA., August 30, 2010 ~~ Nat and Delene Broeckling of Bryan County are the first Georgians to complete all three recreation challenges sponsored by Georgia’s state park system. The couple earned bragging-rights t-shirts and the pride of knowing they completed the Canyon Climbers, Muddy Spokes and Park Paddlers clubs.
ATLANTA, August 27, 2010 ~~ The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is requesting public comments on a proposed rule change that would eliminate “free Wednesdays” at all state parks. Under current rule, park visitors are exempt from paying the $5 parking fee on Wednesdays at sites such as Amicalola Falls, Indian Springs and Crooked River. Written comments will be accepted until October 22, and the change could go into effect February 2011.
ATLANTA, July 28, 2010 – Just because the kids are heading back to school doesn’t mean families need to shelve their fitness regimen for next year. Georgia State Parks makes it easy to stay on track with challenging heart-pumping recreational programs and outdoor activities for every age and fitness level. Fall is the perfect time for families to re-energize and resolve to keep outdoor recreation an ongoing part of the weekly itinerary.
FARGO, GA, July 27, 2010 ~~ Gators galore! A Georgia fisherman’s video of a rare alligator “feeding frenzy” is bringing unexpected attention to the Okefenokee Swamp. Ray Cason of Homerville had just launched his boat at Stephen C. Foster State Park on July 10 when he documented hundreds of alligators feeding in a narrow canal. His short video was posted by the Clinch County News and has since been picked up by Southeastern media and viewed by nearly 50,000 people.
The ninth annual Bat Blitz is set for July 25-29 at Fort Mountain State Park near Chatsworth. The event kicks off at 6:30 p.m. Sunday night with kids activities, bat displays, and researchers hoping to capture bats to show participants. Admission is free but there is a $5 parking fee.
GAINESVILLE, Ga (July 13, 2010) - Anticipating more than 10,000 users each year, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources opened a new megaramp on July 13, 2010 at Tugaloo State Park on Lake Hartwell, giving boaters and anglers greater access to the lake.
ATLANTA, June 28, 2010 ~~ When David and Tina Pilgrim of McDuffie County first started geocaching, they had no idea they’d become two of the most successful ”treasure hunters” in Georgia. They recently became the first finishers of the Georgia State Parks Geo-Challenge – a quest to find 45 hidden boxes in 42 state parks.
CARROLLTON, GA, June 21, 2010 ~~ The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will transfer management of John Tanner State Park to Carroll County effective July 1. All park amenities are expected to remain open, including the beach, campground and accommodations.
ATLANTA, June 14, 2010 – Summer vacation – the perfect time for spending quality family time in the Georgia outdoors. No need to invest in pricey day camps this year. Simply pack a lunch, grab a towel or trail shoes and head to Georgia’s State Parks for affordable recreation that’s not only fun, but also encourages kids to stay active and get outdoors this summer.
ATLANTA, June 11, 2010 ~~ Picnics and campouts will be just a part of this year’s Independence Day Celebration at Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites.
ATLANTA, GA – June 2, 2010 – Georgia’s State Parks & Historic Sites make finding the perfect Father’s Day gift easy by providing affordable gift ideas suitable for every dad and grandfather.
ADEL, GA, April 21, 2010 ~~ The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has appointed Colquitt County native Suzanne Passmore as the new manager of Reed Bingham State Park. Passmore was previously the resource manager at Little Ocmulgee State Park in McRae, and she started her new position in Adel on April 16.
REIDSVILLE, GA., May 25, 2010 ~~ Gordonia-Alatamaha State Park in Reidsville will host a public ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new rental cottages. The ceremony will be held at 10:30 a.m. on June 3. Senator Jack Hill, Senator Tommie Williams and Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Clark are scheduled to speak.
ATLANTA, May 26, 2010 ~~ Eric Bentley of Fort Yargo State Park in Winder was named Manager of the Year by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. The award was presented during the DNR Board’s May meeting in Atlanta.
ATLANTA, May 26, 2010 ~~ Randell Meeks of Soperton, Ga. was named Ranger of the Year by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. The award was presented during the DNR Board’s May meeting in Atlanta.
ATLANTA, GA, May 19, 2010 ~~ Value-conscious golfers can save 10% through June 30 on the annual GreensPass good at seven Georgia State Park golf courses.
Atlanta, May 20, 2010 – As the heat of summer approaches and more people head outside, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages families to get outdoors and “Go Swim!” Whether you are splashing in a creek, jumping off a dock or swimming at a state park beach, Georgia has plenty of places for you to cool off.
ATLANTA, February 9, 2009 ~~ Georgia’s State Park System has unveiled a new club just for canoe and kayak enthusiasts. The Park Paddlers Club includes six state parks with waterways ranging from tidal rivers to the celebrated Okefenokee Swamp. Members can earn a bragging-rights t-shirt by paddling all 22 miles at Crooked River, George L. Smith, Magnolia Springs, Reed Bingham, Stephen C. Foster and Sweetwater Creek state parks.
The Artist-in-Residence Program is no longer being offered by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
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