The North Georgia mountains provide refuge for Atlanta's adventurous souls throughout the year, and a favorite destination is Hart State Park. Three miles north of Hartwell off US-29, the park lies a convenient 80 miles (130 kilometers) northeast of Atlanta. Two cottages are available by reservation, as well as 78 trailer and RV camp sites and 85 picnic sites. The park's lake features a boating ramp and dock, and fishing and waterskiing are permitted. Canoes are available for rent, and a small beach offers bathers a chance to get their feet wet.

This lush state park is located nine miles (15 kilometers) southeast of Waycross, or 240 miles (390 kilometers) southeast of Atlanta. Camping is a priority here, with 44 trailer and tent sites, pioneer camping, and more than 250 picnic sites. The park's lake features a boating ramp and dock, and private boats are allowed. Canoes and other boats are available for rent, and fishing and waterskiing is permitted. A swimming pool, golf course, and miles of nature trails round out the cornucopia of diversions.

This boaters' and campers' paradise is located just six miles west of Adel on GA-37 via Interstate 75, 180 miles (290 kilometers) south of Atlanta. Reed Bingham State Park features 46 tent and RV sites, 74 picnic sites, pioneer camping for the truly adventurous and six shelters for the day-trippers. The park's lake features a dock and a ramp for private boats, and hiking trails stretch throughout the park's domain. Waterskiing and fishing are permitted, and stream fishing is also allowed in the park's many small tributaries.

A short 50-mile (80-kilometer) trip heading south from Atlanta will bring you to one of Georgia's most peaceful state parks. Sprewell Bluff Park is located on Highway 74, about ten miles (16 kilometers) west of the small village of Thomaston. The enormous park features ten picnic sites, a scenic lake that allows private crafts (limits set on motors), hiking trails, and several streams. Fishing is permitted in the park's lake and streams in season. Open daily at 7a.

The beauty of Northern Georgia is on display during all seasons at Mistletoe State Park near Appling, Georgia. The park features ten cottages, 92 trailer/tent/RV sites, two primitive backpacking sites, and pioneer camping areas. For day-trippers, 33 picnic sites are available, including four with picnic shelters and a group shelter for large gatherings. Mistletoe's lake offers a public ramp and dock, and rental canoes and fishing boats are available for the boat-less among us. A beach, bike trails, and nature trails add to the park's many opportunities for outdoor entertainment.

Georgians know how to golf, and this is where many of them learn to perfect the art. Located just north of the city in ritzy Marietta, this facility offers lessons for everyone from the devotee to the true greenhorn. A driving range featuring 50 grass and 20 covered tees, all of which are lighted to provide golf well into the night. Two chipping greens, two putting greens, and two sand bunkers are also available. Whether you're looking to improve your all-around skills or perfect that one aspect that's holding you back, the Marietta Golf Center has the cure you seek.

Southeastern Expeditions offers rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking adventures in North Georgia and Tennessee. This high-adventure outfit also runs several rope and obstacle courses that will test your coordination and stamina. They have trips for all skill levels, leaving very often, depending on reservations and weather. In Georgia, most aquatic trips take place on the Chattooga River and offer a fun day of exciting rapids and beautiful scenery. If you're in the mood for adventure, try a Southeastern expedition. See website for packages offered, online specials, and lots more practical info.

Whether you enjoy rugged tent camping, RV-trailer life, or comfortable cottage living, the accommodations provided at George Smith Park near Twin City will welcome you with open arms. A lake with a boating ramp and rental boats allows for fishing and plenty of water sports, and miles of nature trails and hiking routes are laid out for more active types. 60 picnic sites are distributed evenly throughout the park, lakeside, riverside, and in some remote areas.

Options for nature lovers abound in Georgia, both in the Atlanta area and in more remote spots. Just one such setting is General Coffee Park, an unlikely-sounding name for one of the state's most bucolic retreats. Boaters, swimmers, and fishermen are attracted by the park's respectable lake, and the well-laid-out trail system is a delight for serious hikers and casual nature strollers alike. Picnic shelters, cottages, and camping sites for RVs and tenters are all also available.

Ah, the beauty of Georgia's soft-rolling hills and deep pine forests. Bobby Brown Park has it all, just a few hours east of Atlanta in some of Dixie's prettiest countryside. With more than 60 trailer sites and 40 picnic sites, there's plenty of room for large group outings, so corporate picnic planners have plenty of space. Canoes and paddle boats are available for rent at the small lake, and more cautious bathers will enjoy the swimming pool.