Ten Ways to Get the Kids Outdoors this Spring Break

Ranger Programs – Park rangers have planned a calendar filled with guided hikes, archery classes, kayaking excursions, wildlife encounters, kids’ crafts, campfire sing-a-longs and more. This year’s theme is “Wild Georgia,” with events highlighting the State Wildlife Action Plan and species of concern. You’ll find programs for all age groups and interests on Explore.GaStateParks.org/events.

Camping Under the Stars – Build a lifetime of memories when you toast gooey s’mores by the campfire. Camping encourages the entire family to enjoy the simple pleasures of swapping stories while looking up at the stars. Georgia State Park campgrounds have water and electric hookups, picnic tables and firepits, plus hot showers. Many offer sewage hookups for RVs. GaStateParks.org/Camping

Glamping Getaways – For a unique getaway, go “glamorous camping” in a yurt. These wood and canvas structures are like a cross between a tent and cabin, with furniture inside and hot showers nearby. Each one has its own campfire ring, picnic table and grill as well. Yurts are available at Cloudland Canyon, High Falls, Fort Yargo, Sweetwater Creek, Tugaloo and Red Top Mountain state parks. GaStateParks.org/UniqueAccommodations

Get Cozy – For an affordable and convenient staycation, book a cottage surrounded by a week’s worth of outdoor activities. Cottages feature fully equipped kitchens, screened porches and beautiful scenery right outside the door. Bring your four-legged family members along when you reserve a dog-friendly cabin in advance. Cottage rates already include cleaning fees, making for an even more affordable stay.  GaStateParks.org/Cottages

Become a Junior Ranger – The kiddos will beam with pride when they earn site-specific Junior Ranger badges at each park they visit. Through activity books or ranger-led camps, kids of all ages will experience nature first-hand and explore Georgia's fascinating history. GaStateParks.org/JuniorRanger

Get on the Water – Grab your rod and reel and head out for a day of fishing at parks like High Falls, Kolomoki Mounds, Indian Springs or Seminole. There is no fee for casting a line, but a license is required for ages 16 and older. For families that would like to take their adventure up a notch, many state parks rent kayaks, canoes, aquacycles and fishing boats by the hour. GaStateParks.org/ParkFishing and GaStateParks.org/ParkBoating

Travel Back in Time – Mix entertainment with education when you step back in time at Georgia’s State Historic Sites. Children can explore colonial times at Wormsloe, Fort Morris and Fort King George, or Civil War bunkers at Fort McAllister. To learn about Native American history, visit Kolomoki Mounds, New Echota, Chief Vann House and Etowah Indian Mounds. GaStateParks.org/History

Take a Hike – From stroller-friendly nature trails to all-day hikes, our parks make it easy to find the perfect pathway. Stop by park offices for trail maps and expert advice, as well as essentials like water and snacks. Beginner hikers may want to visit Red Top Mountain’s Iron Hill Trail or Chattahoochee Bend’s Riverside Trail. For a heart-pumping workout, hike into Tallulah Gorge or Cloudland Canyon. GaStateParks.org/Hiking

Join the Club – Love a quest? Hikers, bikers, paddlers and even dog walkers can check off a list of parks to visit while wearing a members-only t-shirt. Visit them all and get a certificate of completion. Clubs include Canyon Climbers, Muddy Spokes, Park Paddlers and Tails on Trails. GaStateParks.org/ParkClubs

Passport to Adventure -- The keepsake Georgia State Parks Passport lets you document your journey while traveling across mountains to marshes. Produced by the Friends of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites, the passport is available in park gift shops. GaStateParks.org

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