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Sweetwater Creek State Park

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PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of Georgia Department of Natural Resources
Sweetwater Creek Yellow Trail
Call: (770) 732-5871 or visit gastateparks.org

Sweetwater Creek State Park is a peaceful tract of wilderness only minutes from downtown Atlanta. A wooded trail follows the stream to the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a textile mill burned during the Civil War. Beyond the mill, the trail climbs rocky bluffs to provide views of the beautiful rapids below. Additional trails wind through fields and forest, showcasing ferns, magnolias, wild azaleas and hardwoods. Park rangers lead informative hikes to these areas throughout the year.

The 215 acre George Sparks Reservoir is popular for fishing and provides a pretty setting for feeding ducks and picnicking. However, there is no beach and swimming in the Reservoir is not allowed. Fishing supplies are available in the adjacent bait shop. During warmer months, the park rents fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and pedal boats. Visitors can join the Park Paddlers Club, which challenges them to explore waterways in six state parks. An award-winning Visitor Center—one of the most environmentally responsible buildings in the country—features exhibits on the area’s history, wildlife displays, trail maps, snacks and a renovated gift shop. A window-lined meeting room that seats 40 can be rented for gatherings.

Saturday September 19, 2015 08:00 PM EDT
This event takes the idea of a silent disco and combines it with a hike! Artists from the Atlanta area have composed songs specifically for the event with the idea of them being heard on a nature walk. We will meet at the park, with our headphones at the ready, and sync our playlist for the hike. Th... [click here for more]

Friday August 28, 2015 08:00 PM EDT
Georgia State Parks presents the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for yurts and camping at Sweetwater Creek State Park. This is a landmark occasion to showcase the first-ever overnight accommodations at Atlanta’s closest state park. Visitors can tour the 10-unit yurts and the park’s te... [click here for more]

Monday December 29, 2014 07:00 PM EST
This camp is for children ages 6 to 12 who have not previously been in a Junior Ranger program. It includes nature hikes, a live snake program, and nature-oriented projects. Registration is required. Lunch not included. [click here for more]

Friday December 26, 2014 07:00 PM EST
Sweetwater Creek State Park Cost: $5 per person
This mile-long hike involves a ranger or historian leading visitors to the New Manchester Mill along Sweetwater Creek. Closed-toed shoes are required. Reservations are recommended. $5 per vehicle parking. [click here for more]

Saturday December 20, 2014 07:00 PM EST
This 1.5-mile hike takes visitors to the Indian Cave” as they learn about the Native American history of the area. Closed-toed shoes are required. Reservations are recommended. $5 parking along with admission.” [click here for more]

Friday December 19, 2014 07:00 PM EST
There is a tractor-pulled hayride to Jack’s Hill and a campfire to make s’mores. Park rangers and local historians share stories from the park. Reservations are required. $5 parking along with admission. [click here for more]

Friday December 19, 2014 07:00 PM EST
Visitors learn about live, non-venomous snakes in a presentation by Park Manager David Jordan. Advanced registration is recommended. $5 parking along with admission. [click here for more]

Thursday December 18, 2014 07:00 PM EST
This 2-mile night-hike takes visitors to the yellow trail bridge to gaze at the stars and planets above. Binoculars are recommended. A flashlight and closed-toed shoes are required. No dogs or children under 12 years permitted. Reservations are required. $5 parking along with admission. [click here for more]

Saturday December 13, 2014 07:00 PM EST
The public is invited to join staff and other volunteers in undergoing park maintenance. Bringing gloves and water are recommended, but bringing tools is optional. Registration is recommended. Free admission, but parking is $5. [click here for more]

Friday December 12, 2014 07:00 PM EST
This mile-long guided night-hike goes to the New Manchester Mill along Sweetwater Creek. Candle lanterns are provided. No dogs are children under 6 years permitted. $5 parking along with admission. [click here for more]
1750 Mount Vernon Road
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
(770) 732-5871
Park

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