Inspiring Parks on Georgia's Coast
A roundup of inspiring places, scenic views, and recreational fun in coastal Georgia parks
Full of natural and cultural wonders, coastal Georgia is a traveler's dream destination. Historic cities, small towns, unspoiled beaches and unending scenic beauty can keep visitors mesmerized.
For those who love to spend time outdoors, the region's parks are not to be missed. From the world-famous Forsyth Park in Savannah to the coast's oldest English fort, coastal Georgia's parks are full of delightful surprises.
Add these five parks to your must-see list for your next trip to the Georgia coast.
Sunset at Crooked River State Park in St. Marys, Georgia. Photo by @katieclenney
Crooked River State Park in St. Marys
This park's spectacular sunrises and sunsets are worth seeing. Find a campsite surrounded by picturesque palmettos and Spanish moss-draped oaks to pitch your tent, or reserve a cottage near the water. Go fishing on the tidal river (the on-site bait shop has you covered), or meander through the maritime forest and salt marsh. Just down the road, you’ll find the ferry to Cumberland Island National Seashore. Plan a day trip to explore the island’s secluded beaches, incredible biodiversity, and historic sites.
Explore more: How to Spend One Amazing Day on Cumberland Island
Forsyth Park Fountain in Savannah, Georgia. Photo by @gcalebjones
Forsyth Park in Savannah
Encompassing 30 acres, take in the towering live oaks and colorful azaleas as you stroll, bike, or rollerblade Savannah's largest and oldest public park. Don't miss the fragrant garden for the blind and the iconic 1858 fountain, a must-photograph spot. At any given time, the park hosts concerts and recreational sports, and on Saturdays, swing by to catch the farmers market.
Explore more: Guide to Savannah
Children at Fort King George in Darien, Georgia. Photo by @2traveldads
Fort King George State Historic Site in Darien
The Georgia coast's oldest English fort, dating back to the 1700s, is this coastal park's centerpiece. Visitors are invited to enjoy both original and recreated buildings, the glittering Altamaha River, and myriad migratory birds. Kids will love playing in the recreated blockhouse and other fort buildings. Enlist them as junior rangers to get them fully engaged and immersed in the fort's history (program booklets are free and available at the visitors’ center). The site is also a part of the Colonial Coast Birding Trail.
Explore more: 25 Things to Do at Georgia's State Parks
Dog sitting by the water at Laura S. Walker State Park in Waycross, Georgia. Photo by @christiane.henderson
Laura S. Walker State Park in Waycross
Located near the northern edge of the mysterious Okefenokee Swamp, this 626-acre park offers a variety of activities from fishing to golfing, skiing and boating, and even a dog park for your four-legged friends. Walk or bike along the lake's edge and nature trail, where you may spot the shy gopher tortoise, numerous oak varieties, saw palmettos, yellow-shafted flickers, warblers, owls, and great blue herons.
Explore more: Extraordinary Escapes at Georgia State Parks
Family hiking at Skidaway Island State Park in Savannah, Georgia
Skidaway Island State Park in Savannah
The allure of the coast draws guests to this park bordering Georgia's Intracoastal Waterway. From trails through the maritime forest to a boardwalk over the water, you might see coastal wildlife, including fiddler crabs, egrets, and more. And if you need a beach break, Tybee Island's beaches are less than an hour away.
Explore more: Guide to Tybee Island
