Events in June 2011 at Georgia State Parks
MEMORABLE STAYCATIONS Group Hayrides
Fridays, June 3, 10, 17 and 24
Victoria Bryant State Park – Royston
Bring your group for a fun-filled, old-fashioned hayride, available every Friday from March 4 until November 25. A minimum of 15 people is required and groups must register in advance. $5 per person. $5 parking. (706) 245-6270.
Outdoor Adventure Weekend (Natl. Trails Day)
Saturday, June 4 through Sunday, June 5, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge – Dawsonville
Celebrate the fun of the great outdoors Bring the family for an early morning kids’ Fishing Rodeo on Saturday. Participate in trail maintenance and guided hikes to honor National Trails Day. $5 parking. (706) 265-969.
Hewell Pottery Demonstration
Saturday, June 4, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge – Dawsonville
Meet members of the Hewell family who have been making pottery for more than 150 years. See live demonstrations and shop for items to take home. $5 parking. (706) 265-4703.
Junior Ranger Program
Saturday, June 4, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Cloudland Canyon State Park – Rising Fawn
This hands-on program is for ages 6-12. A different topic is covered each week, with games, crafts, and activities. Participants will also learn about the Junior Ranger badge program and receive a Junior Ranger book to complete. $5 parking. (706) 657-4050.
Dahlonega Appalachian Jam
Saturdays, June 4, 11, 18 and 25, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site – Dahlonega
Mountain music pickers and singers flock to the Dahlonega Gold Museum for the Appalachian Jam. Tour the museum then enjoy the live entertainment in our courtyard from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Bring a folding chair and listen or bring your instrument and join in! $3.50 – $5 (706) 864-2257.
Siege Yargo TrailBlazer Race
Saturday, June 4, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Fort Yargo State Park – Winder
Join us for this adventure race with teams of three people. Racers will paddle, run, mountain bike and face other challenges through this scenic park. Race fee plus $5 parking. (770) 867-3489.
National Trails Day at Vogel
Saturday, June 4, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Vogel State Park – Blairsville
The Georgia Appalachian Trail Club and Vogel State Park are teaming up to celebrate trail use and protection. Take a hike, help out with trail maintenance, and even talk with an AT through-hiker. Drinks, snacks and desserts will be provided by the GATC. Join the Appalachian Trail Club and enjoy group hiking throughout the U.S. National Forest in your area. $5 parking. (706) 745-2628.
Georgia Master Naturalist
Mondays, June 6, 13, 20 and 27, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Smithgall Woods Conservation Park – Helen
In cooperation with the University of Georgia (UGA) Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, an eight-week training in conservation and wildlife issues relevant to our southern Blue Ridge ecoregion will be offered. Register by May 20. $190 pays for the series and certification as a “Georgia Master Naturalist” through UGA. $5 parking. (706) 878-3087.
Family Camp
Monday, June 6 through Friday, June 10, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Saturday, June 11, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Unicoi State Park and Lodge – Helen
Make your family vacation memorable by attending Unicoi Family Camp. Spend each day attending classes or workshops while enjoying time with your family. No age limits. Pre-registration required. $5 parking. (706) 878-2201 ext. 305.
Smithgall Jr. Ranger Deer Badge Camp
Thursday, June 9 through Friday, June 10, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Smithgall Woods Conservation Park – Helen
Activities, hikes, and games bring the Jr. Ranger activity book to life. Children 7-14 can work towards earning their Jr. Ranger Deer badge as they learn about the natural world. Register in advance. $25 plus $5 parking. (706) 878-3087.
Medicinal Plant Series: Herbs of Summer
Saturday, June 11, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Smithgall Woods Conservation Park – Helen
In the second of this three-part series, explore summer wildflowers, trees and shrubs that are used medicinally. Participate in processing plants for fun ways to “make the medicine go down” – such as honeys, vinegars and infusions. $35 or $90 for series (see April and November classes in series). $5 parking. (706) 878-3087.
Kids Fishing Rodeo
Saturday, June 11, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Vogel State Park – Blairsville
Wolf Creek will be stocked with plenty of trout to be tempted by anglers 12 and younger. Prizes will be given to the lucky ticket holders; families will enjoy watching the children as they have a blast. Each adult must be accompanied with their child or children to register prior to fishing. Coke refreshments will be provided. A limited amount of fishing poles will be provided. $5 parking. (706) 745-2628.
Summer Sky Observation
Saturday, June 11, 9 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Tugaloo State Park – Lavonia
Observe the summer skies with members of the Atlanta Astronomy Club. This event is open to anyone — experienced astronomers and newcomers. A slide show will be followed by observation outdoors with several telescopes. Meet at Shelter 5 behind the park office. $5 parking. (706) 356-4362.
Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike
Tuesday, June 14, 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Wednesday, June 15, 9 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls
Join Tallulah Rangers on a moonlit hike down into the gorge. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. (706) 754-7981.
Exploring Your Native American Ancestry
Saturday, June 18, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
New Echota Historic Site – Calhoun
Genealogy experts will present a program on records crucial to ancestry research associated with Cherokee Indians. Cost includes workshop and 2 p.m. guided tour of New Echota Historic Site. Register in advance. Hosted by the Georgia Trail of Tears Association and Friends of New Echota. $20. (706) 624-1321.
Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals
Saturday, June 18, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Smithgall Woods Conservation Park – Helen
Children and their special “big person” can fish in a lake stocked with catfish, bass, and bream. Fish caught can be kept. Bring your own bait and rods. Some rods are available for loan. Call for directions to the future Buck Shoals State Park. $5 parking. (706) 878-3087.
Smithgall Jr. Ranger Fox Badge Camp
Thursday, June 23 through Friday, June 24, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Smithgall Woods Conservation Park – Helen
Jr. Rangers, ages 7-14, can continue the challenge learning about the natural world and how to take care of it. Participants must have already earned their Deer Badge. Register in advance. $25
plus $5 parking. (706) 878-3087.
Forks in a Stream: Cherokees in the Tugaloo Valley
Saturday, June 25, 8 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Tugaloo State Park – Lavonia
Did you ever wonder what the word Tugaloo meant to the Cherokee? Learn about Native Americans who lived along the banks of the Tugaloo River before the arrival of the white man. Artifacts, tools, games and crafts will be displayed, along with legends and tales from long ago. Meet at the amphitheater in the campground. $5 parking. (706) 356-4362.
COASTAL GEORGIA
Barrington Lake Canoe Trip
Saturday, June 4, 10 a.m.
Fort King George Historic Site – Darien
Includes canoes, paddles, and life jackets. Participants are responsible for their own food and other amenities. 2 hour trip. $20 must register in advance. (912) 437-4770.
Canoe Miller Lake to Barrington Lake
Saturday, June 18, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Fort King George Historic Park – Darien
Enjoy a 9-mile trip down the Altamaha to learn about native flora and fauna. The trip will pass the historic San Savilla Bluff, site of Mary Musgrove’s Mount Venture colonial trading post. The trip will end with a walk up one of the river’s tallest sand bluffs on Barrington Lake. Reservations required. $25. (912) 437-4770.
Archery Summer Day Camp
Tuesday, June 14 through Friday, June 17, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Laura S. Walker State Park – Waycross
Campers will learn archery skills and techniques through target practice and games. Other outdoor activities will include wildlife presentations, outdoor exploration, fishing, and hunting safety. Ages 9-15 may register. $50 plus $5 parking. (912) 287-4900.
Night Hike
Friday, June 3, 8:30 p.m.
Mistletoe State Park – Appling
Use your senses of touch, hearing, and smell to explore the woods by night. Will wetting your nose increase your sense of smell? Can you identify trees by the feel of their bark? Bring a flashlight and wear good walking shoes for this nighttime adventure. Leader: Cathy Black. Meet at the Assembly Shelter in the campgrounds. $5 parking. (706) 541-0321.
Junior Fishing Rodeo
Saturday, June 4, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
A.H. Stephens Historic Park – Crawfordville
The fishing tournament will be held at beautiful Lake Liberty. Children younger than 16 are invited to compete for prizes in several categories. Members of the Metro Atlanta Hawg Hunters fishing club will be on hand to give fishing tips. Ga. Chip will also be on hand to make identification cards for children. Lunch will be provided. Registration is 7:30 – 8 a.m. $5 parking. (706) 456-2602.
Alligator Day
Saturday, June 4, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Florence Marina State Park – Omaha
See live alligators at the Kirbo Interpretive Center and take guided boat tours to view these reptiles in their natural habitat. Alligator experts and trappers will be on hand, sharing their knowledge. Lake Walter F. George is a beautiful location to view wildlife and birds. $5 plus $5 parking. (229) 838-4706.
Creek Walk
Saturday, June 4, 10 a.m.
Mistletoe State Park – Appling
Wear comfortable shoes—preferably ones that can get wet. We’ll take a short hike to Cliatt Creek, net some creek critters, and see what we can learn about our aquatic friends who call the creek home. Leaders: Frank Carl and Judy Gordon. Meet at the Nature Center. $5 parking. (706) 541-0321.
Geology Day
Saturday, June 4, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Providence Canyon State Park Outdoor Recreation Area – Lumpkin
Professor Rich McWilliams of Thomas University in Thomasville, Ga. will lead visitors into the canyons and back in time to discover the geological history of the canyons. The floors of the canyons are often wet and muddy, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear. Bring water and your camera. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. (229) 838-4706.
National Trails Day
Saturday, June 4, 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Reed Bingham State Park – Adel
In celebration of National Trails Day we will be hosting a leave no trace workshop followed by a guided hike. Leave no trace is an educational program that educates children on the importance of outdoor etiquette. Children will participate in games and other educational activities. Please meet at the trailhead. $3 plus $5 parking. (229) 896-3551.
Tribute to Rosie the Riveter and D-Day Commemoration
Saturday, June 4, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Roosevelt’s Little White House Historic Site – Warm Springs
FDR portrayer will deliver the 1944 D-Day prayer, Betty the Homemaker will provide living history and Carol Cain will portray Rosie the Riveter. Kellys Zeroes will display equipment used by soldiers during WWII. $5-$8. (706) 655-5870.
Support Our Troops with Care Packages: OPERATION Heartfelt
Saturday, June 4, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Roosevelt’s Little White House Historic Site – Warm Springs
We are collecting care-package items with Operation Stars and Stripes for those soldiers who don’t receive packages from home. Playing cards, sudoku and word search books, new or gently used CD’s/DVD’s, beef jerky, trail mix and powder drink mixes in individual servings are being sought Bring two or more items from the list and receive special admission rate. $7-$10. (706) 655-5870.
Kids Fishing Rodeo
Saturday, June 11, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Reed Bingham State Park – Adel
Kids, grab your rods and reels! The small ponds will be open to the kids for an entire day of fun fishing. $5 parking. (229) 896-3551.
Junior Fishing Rodeo and Outdoor Education Day
Saturday, June 11, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Seminole State Park – Donalsonville
Join Seminole State Park and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a day of fun and education. The fishing rodeo is open to those 18 and younger. Featured programs are water safety, canoe safety and snakes. There will also be a casting contest. $5 parking. (229) 861-3137.
Senior Fishing Rodeo
Saturday, June 18, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
A.H. Stephens Historic Park – Crawfordville
This awesome tournament will be held at Lake Liberty, recently stocked with more than 2,500 catfish. Anglers 55 and older can compete for great prizes in several categories. A hot lunch will be available. Registration will be held from 7:30am to 8:00am at the park office. $5 parking. (706) 456-2602.
Birding and Wildflower Hike
Saturday, June 18, 9 a.m.
Mistletoe State Park – Appling
The woods are alive with activity! Bring water and wear comfortable walking shoes for this 2-mile walk on the Cliatt Creek Trail. In addition to identifying early summer wildflowers, we’ll look for birds that have returned after spending the winter as far away as South America. Leader: Joyce Billue. Meet at the Nature Center. $5 parking. (706) 541-0321.
Mountain Dulcimer Workshop
Saturday, June 25, 10:30 a.m.
Mistletoe State Park – Appling
METRO ATLANTA
Nature at Night
Friday, June 3, 10, 17 and 24, 8 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Red Top Mountain State Park – Cartersville
Every Friday in June, meet at the far side of Visitor Center parking lot for a ranger-led night hike. All sorts of seldom-seen creatures come out at night, so we’ll keep our eyes and ears open. We’ll be hiking about one mile on an easy trail, which makes this great for the whole family. $5 parking. (770) 975-4226.
Junior Ranger Day Camp
Friday, June 3, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
This day camp is for children ages 6-12 who have not previously been in a Junior Ranger program. This program focuses on attaining the Level I Deer Badge. There will be nature hikes, a live animal program, and nature oriented arts and craft projects. Register in advance. $20 includes lunch. (770) 732-5871.
National Trails Day Celebration
Saturday, June 4, 9 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Explore the secret valley of Panola Mountain State Park. You will be guided on a hike through wetlands to upland forest and be able to view stunning outcrops. Be prepared for all weather conditions and bring good hiking boots. Meet at the nature center 30 minutes before program begins. Register in advance. $10 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.
Introduction to Backpacking
Saturday, June 4, 3 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
This beginner’s class will take place in an outdoor classroom. This is a great introduction on how to prepare for backcountry hiking; what is essential, how to save weight, and what to leave at home. Meet at the nature center 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $7 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.
Mountain Music Series
Saturday, June 4, 11, 18 and 25, 8 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Red Top Mountain State Park – Cartersville
Relax and enjoy a bluegrass concert at the Vaughan Cabin from 8 – 9 p.m. Not enough music for you? Bring your instrument and a buddy for jamming from 2 – 5 p.m. $5 parking. (770) 975-0055.
Sunday Afternoon Fly Fishing
Sunday, June 5, 2 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Casting is the backbone of this clinic; however, if time permits will also cover equipment, knot tying, and safety issues and other tricks of the trade. Master Instructor C. H. Brown suggests wearing long pants/shorts and hiking shoes, and bringing snacks, water and sun lotion. Georgia fishing license required. Meeting at the Alexander Lake Parking Area. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $15 or $12 with own gear. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.
Sunday Mountain Hike
Sundays, June 5, 12, 19 and 26, 4 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
This hike allows visitors to see Panola Mountain up close, as the Ranger explains why it’s protected and what we can do to preserve the natural beauty of granite outcrops. Bring sturdy shoes, water, bug spray, and your camera. Register in advance. $7 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.
Frog Slog
Thursdays, June 9, 16, 23 and 30, 6 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Investigate wetlands and streams in search of frogs and salamanders. Be prepared to get wet, muddy, and bring a flashlight and headlamp, nets, seines and buckets. Meet in the Alexander Lake parking area. Register in advance. $7 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.
Day of Discovery at Etowah
Saturday, June 11, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site – Cartersville
Archaeologist Adam King will speak at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Dr. King is an authority on early cultures and authored “ETOWAH: The Political History of a Chiefdom Capital,” His presentations always bring new information about Etowah and the surrounding area. $3.50 – $5.00 plus tax (770) 387-3747.
Lost Person Prevention
Saturday, June 11, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Learn simple techniques for not getting lost and keeping track of your family when venturing into the great outdoors of Georgia. Search and Rescue Dog Team will be joining the class unless a SAR activity is occurring. Meeting at the nature center. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.
Basic Fly Fishing
Saturday, June 11, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
The two-hour clinic covers equipment, knot tying, casting, safety issues and other tricks of the trade. If time permits participants may stay to catch the “Fish of Fish.” Instructors C. H. Brown and Michael Reilley suggest wearing long pants/shorts and hiking shoes, and bringing snacks, water and sun lotion. Georgia fishing license required. Meeting at the Alexander Lake Parking Area. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $15 or $12 with own gear. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.
Panola Mountain Night Hike
Saturday, June 11, 8 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Join us for an enchanted evening as we hike to the mountain top under the watchful eye of the full moon. We’ll head out just before sunset and enjoy the stroll as the moon begins to rise. Bring flashlights, hiking boots and water. Meet at the nature center 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $7 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.
Geology Hike
Saturday, June 11, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
Geologist and “Friends of Sweetwater Creek State Park” member John Johnston will lead a moderate 2-mile hike identifying rock types and explaining how they formed. There will also be a visit inside the ruins of the Civil War era New Manchester Mill alongside the beautiful rapids of Sweetwater Creek. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.
“Runis to Rapids” Full Moon Hike
Friday, June 17, 8 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
This 1.5 mile hike is moderately difficult and goes inside the Civil War-era textile mill ruins of New Manchester and follows the lovely rapids (up to class IV) of Sweetwater Creek. A flashlight and sturdy shoes are required. No children under 6 or dogs. Meet inside the Visitor Center. Register in advance. $6 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.
Saturday Mountain Hike
Saturday, June 18, 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
These guided hikes depart from Panola’s nature center and are for people in good physical condition. This hike allows park visitors to see Panola Mountain up close, as the Ranger explains the reasons Panola Mountain is protected, and what we can all do to preserve the natural beauty of granite outcrops. Bring sturdy shoes, water, bug spray, and your camera! The Panola Mountain hike starts at 10am and generally lasts 2-3 hours. Rain or shine. Meeting at the nature center. $7 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801
Iron Pour and More
Saturday, June 18, 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Red Top Mountain State Park – Cartersville
Head on back behind the Park Office for a day of fun and discovery. Explore our 1850s log cabin and blacksmith shop, enjoy a live concert, watch a nighttime iron pour, and more. $5 parking. (770) 975-0055.
Tree Top Excursions: Introduction Climb
Saturday, June 18, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge
Join us “on rope” for an adventure exploring the canopy above. This is an introductory climb to Canopy-Adventure-Research-Educational Technical Tree Climbing (CARE TTC). Participants will use rope and harness for this moderately strenuous activity. Meeting at Naomi-Ruth Climbing Tree. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $15 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.
Skins and Skulls Wildlife ID Class
Saturday, June 18, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
Want to learn how to identify wildlife like a professional tracker? This class will teach beginners interested in the outdoors how to identify wildlife like the experts. This indoor class will be held in the Interpretive Center. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.
Junior Ranger Day Camp
Friday, June 24, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
This day camp is for children ages 6-12 who have not previously been in a Junior Ranger program. This program focuses on attaining the Level I Deer Badge. There will be nature hikes, a live animal program, and nature oriented arts and craft projects. Register in advance. $20 includes lunch. (770) 732-5871.
Introduction to Flyfishing
Saturday, June 25, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs
Join an expert angler and learn about the art of fly-casting on the banks of Sweetwater Creek. Participants will meet at the Interpretive Center at 1:00 pm. Poles will be provided for the class, or anglers can bring their own tackle. Class is geared toward 7 years and older. Space is limited, pre-payment required for registration. $10 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.
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- Georgia State Parks January Events
- Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites Events and Programs for December 2011
- August 2010 Georgia State Parks
- Georgia State Park Events for February 2012
- June 2012 Calendar of Events of Georgia State Parks
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