The 20 Best Historic Sites in Georgia to Visit

Wormsloe State Historic Sites in GA entrance

[Updated August 23, 2023] Established as the fourth state after ratifying the United States Constitution in 1788, Georgia has a rich and diverse state history. The state is known for its sprawling oak trees in Savannah, rolling Blue Ridge Mountains in North Georgia, and a largely agriculture-based economy.  English philanthropist James Oglethorpe first settled the state of … Read more

Visiting the Dahlonega Gold Museum in Dahlonega GA

Dahlonega Gold Museum in Dahlonega GA

Located in the mountain town of Dahlonega, the Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site chronicles the discovery of gold in Georgia and the pivotal role it played in the history of Georgia.  Gold was first discovered in Lumpkin County in 1828, and it triggered the first major gold rush in the country by 1829. (There … Read more

The 15 Best Campgrounds in North Georgia

Campground at James Sloppy Floyd State Park GA

[Updated 5/25/2022] Taking day trips to explore the myriad North Georgia State Parks, hiking trails to waterfalls, and other outdoor attractions are fun and rewarding in their own right. But camping overnight (or for the weekend) allows us to explore these natural wonders in much greater depth. There’s nothing quite like being fully immersed in the … Read more

Hiking & Camping at Fort Mountain State Park Near Ellijay GA

Cool Springs Overlook at Fort Mountain State Park near Ellijay GA (1 of 1)

Everyone has their favorite North Georgia State Parks, whether it’s the massive gorge and waterfalls of Cloudland Canyon or the far-ranging Blue Ridge Mountain vistas of Black Rock Mountain.  But if you’re interested in state parks primarily for camping, hiking, or history, Fort Mountain State Park deserves to be right up there at the top … Read more

The 10 Best State Parks With Cabins In Georgia

State Parks with Cabins in Georgia

Whether you want to spend a day hiking through scenic forests, enjoying a sun-drenched day on the lake or river, or experiencing Fall in the North GA mountains, there are numerous state parks that offer countless outdoor adventures. When your day of exploring is done, many of these Georgia State Parks offer cottage and cabin rentals. … Read more

Things to Do at James H Floyd State Park in Summerville GA

Fishermen at James H Sloppy Floyd State Park

[Updated on 7/20/21] We honestly didn’t know much about James H Floyd State Park (a.k.a. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park) before our first visit to Summerville GA.    But the 561-acre park’s laid-back blend of immense natural beauty and rich (some would say colorful) history won us over within minutes after we pulled through the gate.  … Read more

The 15 Best North Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites

Black Rock Lake

[Updated on 7/14/21] Growing up in a lower middle class family in metro Atlanta, the North Georgia mountains were our playground. My parents led the youth group at our church when I was a young boy, and I can recall countless trips hiking and camping on Blood Mountain, Springer Mountain, and Brasstown Bald (the highest … Read more

Exploring the Dark History of the New Echota Historic Site in Calhoun GA

Vann Tavern at New Echota Historic Site in Calhoun GA

[Updated on 7/20/21] Though most Georgia residents have never heard of it, the New Echota Historic Site in Calhoun GA is one of the most important indigenous sites in the United States.  In 1825, the Cherokee Nation established New Echota as its capital, building the “New Town” right at the headwaters of the Oostanaula River.  … Read more

Inside the Utterly Unique Unicoi State Park Barrel Cabins in Helen GA

Unicoi State Park Barrel Cabin

[Updated October 26, 2021] Georgia State Park cabins are arguably among the best deals you’ll find for cabin rentals in North Georgia. Most cost around $160 a night for a 2-bedroom cottage with a full kitchen that can sleep 6 to 8 people.   And when it comes to Unicoi State Park lodging, their rental … Read more

Things to Do in Moccasin Creek State Park on Lake Burton

Lake Burton Boathouse at Moccasin Creek State Park

[Updated on November 26, 2021] After becoming empty nesters in 2019, my lady and I decided that we wanted to start the process of looking for our future home.  I’d grown up hiking in the North Georgia mountains with my family, spending many a memorable summer day at my grandparents’ humble cabin on Lake Hartwell.  … Read more