The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced a new program aimed at encouraging high school students to explore careers in conservation.

New Year’s Day adventures offered in Georgia’s State Parks & Historic Sites

Many of Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites are home to remnants of forts and earthworks dating back to the 17th century. At these special places, history doesn’t just live on plaques and markers; it literally comes alive during re-enactments held occasionally during the year. In honor of Veterans Day on November 11, visit one of these five sites that highlight the history of Georgia’s earliest battles through the American Civil War. Find more about Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites at GaStateParks.org/History.

Georgia’s Division of State Parks and Historic Sites is preparing to host a dozen state park directors from across the Southeast. The annual conference of the Association of Southeastern State Park Directors will be held October 24 to 28 at Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa in Young Harris.

This holiday season, wow friends and family with the gift of the great outdoors. Choose from the below eight ideas and watch a simple present turn into a new infatuation with Mother Nature.

Several Georgia State Park and Historic Site employees were honored recently during a conference at Unicoi State Park. Managers attended an awards ceremony celebrating those who make more than 60 State Parks and Historic Sites outstanding destinations across Georgia. They also attended training sessions and shared ideas on park operations. Below are this year’s award winners.

“When will fall color peak?” is a common question for park rangers in autumn. Only Mother Nature knows for sure, but Georgia’s most vibrant hues usually come toward the end of October or early November. To help leaf peepers plan their fall escapes, Georgia State Parks has launched “Leaf Watch 2021” to track autumn color as it moves across the Peach State.

Imagine what our state and national parks would be like without those who protect them? Throughout July, Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites are recognizing these men and women in celebration of World Ranger Day on July 31. This annual holiday commemorates the founding of The International Ranger Federation, honors those who have been injured or killed while protecting parks across the globe, and celebrates their work in conserving natural and cultural resources.

For outdoorsy dads, fresh air and adventure are often the best gift of all. With Father’s Day just around the corner on June 20, Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites make it easy to share the gift of heartwarming memories. Check out these top five ideas below, and find even more on GaStateParks.org.

Panola Mountain State Park will host a public ribbon cutting celebration for its new outdoor classroom at 10 a.m. on May 22nd. The outdoor classroom will be a new space for children to play and learn about the natural world.

Skidaway Island State Park will host a public ribbon cutting celebration for its new visitor center at 10 a.m. on May 13. The 6,300-square-foot building is now the first stop for those enjoying one of Georgia’s most popular state parks.

Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites honors its staff with annual Rangers Conference held mostly virtual this year.

State and federal agencies are planning a controlled burn at Tallulah Gorge State Park this spring to benefit unique wildlife at one of Georgia’s most unique places.

One of Savannah’s most photographed historic sites will soon break ground on a new entrance and visitor center. Improvements at colonial Wormsloe, with its iconic arch and 300-year-old tabby ruins, will enhance guest experiences while also protecting its famed Avenue of Live Oaks.

This year marks the tricentennial of a turning point in North American colonial history. Three centuries ago, British soldiers established their first fort on land that was to become the colony of Georgia. Called Fort King George, it protected a low bluff on the mighty Altamaha River from French and Spanish explorers, as well as Guale Indians.

Top Seven Ideas for a Spring Outdoor Escape in Georgia’s State Parks & Historic Sites.

Five Tail-Wagging Adventures in Georgia's State Parks.

Several Georgia State Park and Historic Site employees were honored recently during a mostly virtual Rangers Conference. Because last year’s conference was canceled due to the pandemic, awards were presented for both 2020 and 2021. Around 125 assistant managers, park rangers and maintenance technicians participated in a day of training activities and sharing ideas. The conference ended with an awards ceremony celebrating the efforts of those who make more than 60 State Parks and Historic Sites outstanding destinations for Georgia’s citizens and visitors. Learn more at GaStateParks.org/awards.

One silver lining from 2020 has been discovering the joy of outdoor adventures. Parks all across the country welcomed record numbers of visitors looking for fresh air, peaceful scenery and heart-pumping exercise. The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to start daydreaming about future getaways. The newly published “2021 Guide to Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites” is a helpful resource for planning spring break, romantic retreats and summer vacations. The booklet is filled with tips on the best hiking trails, fishing spots, pet travel, golf courses, cabins and campsites, as well as many new photos shared by park users.

This Black Friday, chose waterfalls over online malls by joining the #OptOutside movement. Created by retailer REI, the national initiative encourages Americans to improve their well-being through outdoor experiences. Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites have plenty of trails and lakes to provide inspiration. An added bonus is working off that pumpkin pie, plus state parks are open Thanksgiving Day as well. Below are five ways to #OptOutside and breath in fresh air.