Long-time campers know the anticipation of getting to a campground early so they can pick their favorite spot. Beginning this August, four of Georgia’s State Parks will allow visitors to reserve their favorite campsite in advance. Called “site-specific,” the reservations will be available for the entire campgrounds at Richard B. Russell (Elberton) and James H. Floyd (Summerville), and select sections of Reed Bingham (Adel) and Laura S. Walker (Waycross) state park campgrounds.
Campers enjoy bathhouses with hot showers, water and electric hookups, grills and picnic tables, and pretty scenery. Reservations may be made up to 13 months in advance by calling 1-800-864-7275 or at www.GaStateParks.org/reservations.
Located on 26,650-acre Lake Russell near Elberton, Richard B. Russell State Park offers some of the state’s finest fishing and boating. The park’s campground and cottages are located on or near the water’s edge for a relaxing getaway. Most park facilities are designed for wheelchair accessibility, including the swimming beach. Guests can enjoy disc golf, nature trails, geocaching and bike rental. Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course offers affordable tee times and a pro shop. (706-213-2045, http://gastateparks.org/RichardBRussell)
James H. Floyd State Park in northwest Georgia offers fishing on two stocked lakes, boat rental, playgrounds and picnic shelters. A hiking trail leads to a former marble mine and small waterfall, plus the trailhead to the 60-mile Pinhoti Trail is only a 1.6-mile hike away. (706-857-0826, http://gastateparks.org/JamesHFloyd)
Reed Bingham State Park, located in south Georgia, is just six miles from I-75. Visitors enjoy ranger programs, boating, fishing, picnicking, mini-golf, bike rental and boat rental. Pontoon tours of the lake highlight wildlife such as alligators, raccoon and numerous bird species. The park’s campground has sewage hookups in addition to water and electric hookups. (229-896-3551, http://gastateparks.org/ReedBingham)
Laura S. Walker State Park in Waycross is near the famed Okefenokee Swamp. It is popular for boating, skiing, fishing and swimming, as well as ranger programs. Group shelters and picnic shelters can be rented for family reunions, weddings and parties. The Lakes Golf Course has a pro shop, relaxing atmosphere and affordable rates. (912-287-4900, http://gastateparks.org/LauraSWalker)
