September 2012 Calendar for Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites
September 2012 Calendar for
Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites
Unicoi State Park and Lodge, Helen
Below is the September 2012 Calendar from Georgia's State Parks and Historic Sites. More information on events, accommodations and recreation can be found at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org or 1-800-864-7275. For a complete calendar, visit www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/events. You can also become a fan on Facebook , follow us on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter on GovDelivery. Thank you for helping promote Georgia's natural and historic resources!
September 29 is "Your State Parks Day" FREE Day. Georgia's State Parks and Historic Sites will waive parking fees and admission in honor of National Public Lands Day. September 2012 Events - Divided By Region
NORTHERN GEORGIA:
Holiday Gorge Floor Hike
Saturday, September 1, 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 2, 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Monday, September 3, 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Tallulah Gorge State Park - Tallulah Falls, This is a strenuous trek; include hiking down 531 stairs, a river crossing jumping from rock to rock, and climbing boulders along the side of the river to Bridal Veil Falls where you can swim. Total miles are 3.5. No pets; wear appropriate footwear; children must be 10 or older; bring food and water. $5 plus $5 parking. (706) 754-7981.
Full Moon Hike
Saturday, September 1, 8:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.
Friday, September 28, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 29, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Sunday, September 30, 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Tallulah Gorge State Park - Tallulah Falls, Enjoy the gorge in the magical, shimmering light of the full moon. The hike will begin at the Interpretive Center, following the North Rim Trail, with a descent of the Hurricane Falls Trail staircase to the suspension bridge over Hurricane Falls. This is considered a strenuous hike, consisting of approximately 1.5 miles and 1,099 steps. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. (706) 754-7981.
Tugaloo Triathlon
Saturday, September 8, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Tugaloo State Park - LavoniaParticipants will swim 1.5 kilometers, bicycle 42 kilometers and run 10 kilometers in this Olympic-style event that is exciting for spectators as well as participants. Space is limited, so athletes should sign up early. Do it or watch it! Co-sponsored by Tri-Atlanta Multisports Association and Friends of Tugaloo State Park. $5 parking. (706) 356-4362.
Mountain Music and Arts and Craft Festival
Saturday, September 8, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Vogel State Park - Blairsville
This popular event includes Appalachian, bluegrass and gospel music. There will also be art and craft booths with handmade items for sale, and food concessions provided by Vogel Volunteers. $2-$5 plus $5 parking. (706) 745-2628.
Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals
Saturday, September 15, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Smithgall Woods State 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 (no corn) and rods. This event is not at Smithgall Woods, but at Buck Shoals, a nearby-unopened state park. Call for directions. Occurs every third Saturday through September. $5 parking. (706) 878-3087.
Historical Rock Hike
Saturday, September 15, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Tallulah Gorge State Park - Tallulah Falls
Prepare for a very strenuous hike to see unique rock formations that were named in the late 1800s. We will be hiking off the beaten trail along steep cliffs, down treacherous embankments and rocky terrain. Bring lunch and water. $5 plus $5 parking. (706) 754-7981.
Traveler's Rest Pioneer Days
Saturday, September 15, 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Travelers Rest Historic Site - Toccoa
Talents and skills of the early 1800s pioneers are brought back to life. Demonstrators will be on hand for spinning, weaving, blacksmithing, hearth cooking, doll making and other pioneer skills. Visitors will also enjoy live period music and dancing. $2.75-$4. (706) 886-2256.
Bark in the Park
Saturday, September 15, 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Unicoi State Park and Lodge - Helen
Bring your leashed pooch and join in the fun. There will be contests, a silent auction, vendor booths, shelter adoption booths, a food vendor, and live music. Sponsored by Friends of Unicoi. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. $5 per dog. $5 parking. 1-706-878-2201 ext. 305.
Outdoor Adventure Day
Saturday, September 22, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Unicoi State Park and Lodge - Helen
Learn how to catch a trout, paddle a canoe and shoot a shotgun, and then try your skills at fly tying and casting, trout fishing, archery, air guns and skeet shooting. Wildlife shows, hunting dog demonstrations and hayrides will be available. $5 parking. 800-573-9659 ext. 305.
National Public Lands Volunteer Workday with REI and YABA
Saturday, September 29, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Fort Yargo State Park - Winder
We will be working on building and maintaining trails at Fort Yargo State Park. (404) 656-6533.
Women for the Woods ll
Saturday, September 29 through Sunday, September 30, 8 a.m.
Smithgall Woods State Park - Helen
Women, get your fill of fishing, orienteering, shooting a bow, and much more at this event for women, taught by women. An evening meal around the campfire and optional camping provides the perfect ending to this active day. $60 plus $5 camping fee or $65 plus camping fee after September 15. $5 parking. (706) 878-3087.
Rivers Alive at Unicoi
Saturday, September 29, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Unicoi State Park and Lodge - Helen
Help clean up Smith Creek in honor of Georgia's Rivers Alive program. 800-573-9659, ext.305.
COASTAL GEORGIA:
Labor Day at Fort McAllister
Saturday, September 1
Fort McAllister Historic Park - Richmond Hill
Civil War-era labor was much like ours is today. From blacksmith to wood worker, all trades were needed to keep this fort in operation. Come see how it was done. $3.75 - $6.50. (912) 727-2339.
Tools and Skills that Built a Colony
Saturday, September 1 through Monday, September 3, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Wormsloe Historic Site - Savannah
See craft demonstrations such as woodworking, blacksmithing, cooking, spinning, flintknapping, leatherworking, woodsman skills, pewter casting, and more. $4.50-$8. (912) 353-3023.
Labor Day Commemoration
Monday, September 3, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Fort Morris Historic Site - Midway
Commemorate Labor Day holiday with hourly soldier talks and musket and cannon firings at this scenic coastal fort. $3-$4.50 (912) 884-5999.
Stargazing
Saturday, September 15, 8 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Stephen C. Foster State Park- Fargo
Come out to the cul-de-sac at the end of 177 where we'll have an 18" telescope set up. You'll be able to see planets, star clusters, nebulae, and other celestial bodies. Learn new constellations you may not be familiar with. $5 Refuge Parking Fee. $3. (912) 637-5274.
Suwannee River Clean up
Saturday, September 22, 9 a.m. 5 p.m.
Stephen C. Foster State Park - Fargo
Join us at the Suwannee River Visitor Center on the first day of fall to pick up litter on the Suwannee River to keep it beautiful. We'll provide the canoes, kayaks, paddles, pfd's, and trash bags. Registration required. (912) 637-5274.
Full Moon Bike Ride Down Suwannee River Sill
Friday, September 28, 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Stephen C. Foster State Park - Fargo
Bring your bike for this ranger-led ride under the full moon. Look for alligator's eyes shining bright red. Listen to gators bellowing and to a chorus of frogs and toads. Look for snakes resting on the pavement still warm from the day. Listen for owls and watch bats overhead. Cross your fingers for a shooting star! $5 Refuge Parking. (912) 637-5274.
A Murder Mystery in Colonial Darien
Saturday, September 29, 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Fort King George Historic Site - Darien
Have fun with the garrison as you play killer colonial Clue! Guests will become amateur sleuths during this engaging evening. Uncover clues as this dramatic episode unfolds before your eyes. All guests who solve the crime receive a prize, while two lucky guests receive free tickets to the next garrison dinner. Light hors d'oeuvres served. Reservations required. $35. (912) 437-4770.
SOUTHERN and CENTRAL GEORGIA:
Labor Day On The Lake
Friday, September 1 through Sunday, September 3, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Florence Marina State Park - Omaha
Let's get outside and have a little fun on the park. Our family celebration including games, nature programs, and crafts. $1 - $5, $5 parking. (229) 838-4706.
Moonlight Hike
Saturday, September 1, 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Hard Labor Creek State Park - Rutledge
Join a park ranger on this guided hike under the full moon. Wear comfortable shoes, insect repellant, and bring a camera to record the journey, as we listen for insects, frogs and other nocturnal creatures. Meet at the Hard Labor Creek Trading Post. $5 plus $5 parking. (706) 557-3001.
Swim the Warm Springs
Saturday, September 1 through Monday, September 3, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Roosevelt's Little White House Historic Site - Warm Springs
Swim in the historic pools built by President F.D. Roosevelt as a place for therapy. Normally kept empty for preservation, the shallow pools will be filled with naturally warm spring water. Tickets may be purchased over the phone with credit card. Space is limited to 80 per session. Reservations suggested. Ages 6 and older $20 adults; $12.50 ages 6 to 17; Family Package $80 (706) 655-5870.
Evening Kayak and Wildlife Watching Adventures
Friday, September 7, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday, September 8, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday, September 15, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday, September 21, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday, September 22, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday, September 29, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Hard Labor Creek State Park - Rutledge
The stealthy kayak is a great vessel to sneak up on all sorts of wildlife. This ranger-led paddle will take participants around Lake Rutledge for viewing birds, mammals, dragonflies and other wildlife. Trips will start at the Lake Rutledge Boat Ramp. Ages 4 and older. Register in advance. $15 includes equipment. $5 parking. (706) 557-3001.
Archery Explorer Train Ride
Saturday, September 8, 22 and 29, 9:30 a.m. - 4:40 p.m.
SAM Shortline Excursion Train - All Aboard! - Cordele
Riding in air-conditioned, 1949 vintage train cars, you will travel across Lake Blackshear to Plains and back. Explore President Jimmy Carter's boyhood farm (Jimmy Carter National Historic Site), go shopping and sample peanut butter treats. Groups and parties welcome. 1-877-427-2457.
Second Sundays on the Farm
Sunday, September 9, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
General Coffee State Park - Nicholls
The Heritage Farm will feature demonstrations of late 1800s farm life on the second Sunday of every month. A different demonstration will take place every month. $5 parking. (912) 384-7082.
Presidential Flyer - Veterans Salute
Friday, September 14, 9:30 a.m. - 3:25 p.m.
SAM Shortline Excursion Train - Cordele
Riding in air-conditioned, 1949 vintage train cars, you will travel across Lake Blackshear to Plains and back. Explore President Jimmy Carter's boyhood farm (Jimmy Carter National Historic Site), go shopping and sample peanut butter treats. Groups and parties welcome. 1-877-427-2457.
Coca-Cola Space Science Center Observing Night
Saturday, September 15, 8 p.m.
F.D. Roosevelt State Park - Pine Mountain
Join presenters from Coca-Cola Space Science Center (Columbus University) at our amphitheater on Highway 190 to view the stars above. The evening will include star talks, star maps, and viewing of the night sky. $5 parking. (706) 663-4858.
Special Excursion -"The Peanut Festival Special"
Saturday, September 15, 9 a.m. - 4:50 p.m.
SAM Shortline Excursion Train - Cordele
All aboard for a wonderful adventure with a parade, food and lots of peanuts. Vendors with arts and crafts will fill the park as you step off the train. You can also ride to the Boyhood Farm for an additional fee. 1-877-427-2457.
Georgia State Astronomy - Observatory Open House
Saturday, September 22, 7:35 p.m. - 10:05 p.m.
Hard Labor Creek State Park - Rutledge
Georgia State University's Observatory will have an open monthly. In case of inclement weather, facilities will be open for a tour and slideshow. Large groups need reservations: 404-413-6024. Programs start one half hour after sunset. (706) 557-3001.
METRO ATLANTA:
Mountain Music Series
Saturday, September 1, 8 p.m.
Red Top Mountain State Park - Cartersville
Enjoy our free bluegrass concert series where bands play every Saturday night for an hour or more. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on, and meet at the Vaughan Cabin located behind the park office. $5 parking. (770) 975-0055.
The Creek and Cherokee People of Georgia
Saturday, September 8, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site - Cartersville
Learn about the prehistoric people of Georgia and hear how the Creek and Cherokee lived before European contact. Discover what changes were necessary for the survival of these people. $3.50-$5.00 (770) 387-3747.
Basic Fly Fishing Clinic
Saturday, September 8, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park - Stockbridge
The clinic covers casting, safety issues and other tricks of the trade. If time permits participants may stay to catch the Fish of Fish. Instructors suggest wearing long pants/shorts and hiking shoes, and bringing snacks, water and sunscreen. Georgia fishing license required. Register in advance. $15 or $12 with own gear. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.
Lost Person Prevention
Saturday, September 8, 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. Meet at the nature center. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before each program. Register in advance. $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.
Butterfly Safari
Sunday, September 9, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park - Stockbridge
Panola Mountain's grassland habitats provide great butterfly viewing areas. Bring a digital camera to record these incredible creatures. A ranger will point out plants along the way that are important food, and we'll look for a variety of species including Buckeye, Tiger Swallowtail, and many types of grass skippers. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 389-7801.
Introduction to Fly-fishing
Saturday, September 15, 10 a.m. - 12 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. Poles will be provided, or anglers can bring their own tackle. Class is geared toward 7 years and older. Register in advance. $10 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.
Geology Hike
Saturday, September 22, 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.
Candlelight Hike to the Mill
Saturday, September 22, 8 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs
This mile-long guided night hike is easy to moderately difficult and goes inside the Civil War era textile mill ruins of New Manchester. Candle lanterns will be provided. No children under 6 years or dogs permitted. Space is limited and is on a first-come first-serve basis. Meet and register at the Interpretive Center. $5 plus $5 parking. (770) 732-5871.
