Celebrate 4th of July At Georgia State Parks

CARTERSVILLE, GA -- Burgers in the shade and camping under the stars are some of the favorite 4th of July activities offered in Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites.

If you plan to spend your Independence Day enjoying the best of what nature has to offer, then the state agency encourages visitors to reserve campsites, cabins, picnic shelters and yurts in advance.

Reservations can be made up to 13 months in advance by calling 1-800-864-7275 or online at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org.

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Can’t get away for the whole weekend? State parks welcome visitors to come for just the day as well. For a $5 parking fee, guests can cool off at lakeside beaches, explore hiking trails, and even fish for their dinner – all for free. Many state parks rent stand-up paddleboards, aquacycles, bikes and kayaks for a small fee.

Some of the state’s historic forts will showcase America’s history with musket firings, military drills and displays.

Park rangers encourage visitors to bring picnics, but to leave fireworks at home because sparklers and explosives are not allowed in Georgia’s state parks.

If you want more affordable activities to explore on the holiday, then check out these suggestions:

• Find ranger-led hikes, games, firework displays and more programs on the Georgia State Parks calendar listing.
• Covered picnic shelters and enclosed group shelters can be reserved for family reunions and parties. All offer pretty views, and grills and restrooms are nearby. Reservations should be made in advance for these popular shelters. Individuals can use picnic tables scattered throughout all of Georgia’s state parks for free.

Lakeside swimming beaches are free once visitors pay a $5 parking fee. You can check out sandy beach locations -- including Bartow County's Red Top Mountain State Park -- at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/swimming.

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Image via Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites