Never Been Camping at a State Park? Try It This Summer with the First-Time Camper Program

Want to try camping? Not sure how to start? The Georgia Department of Natural Resources wants to help. 

What's the cost? Just $50 plus a $5 ParkPass for the length of your stay. Who can participate? Anyone who has never camped in a Georgia state park. 

When first-time campers arrive, park staff will help you set up camp and will provide insider tips. Equipment includes one six-person tent, four sleeping pads, a camp stove with fuel, four roasting forks, a lantern and two camp chairs. Participants must bring sleeping bags or blankets and pillows. 

The DNR recommends aspiring campers make reservations at least two weeks in advance. For questions, contact program coordinator Cindy Reittinger by calling 770-389-7279 or e-mailing cindy.reittinger@gadnr.org. You can also call Fort Yargo at 770-867-3489. 

Want to make your first camping trip a weekend get-away? These parks are offering the first-time camper program: 

• A.H. Stephens State Park in Crawfordville
• F. D. Roosevelt State Park in Pine Mountain
• Fort Mountain State Park in Chatsworth
• General Coffee State Park in Nicholls
• James H. Floyd State Park near Rome
• Reed Bingham State Park in Adel
• Skidaway Island State Park in Savannah

Want more information? Click here. 

The DNR suggests checking out Reader's Digest's seven reasons why camping is a great activity.