After months of hot days on the beach (and maybe one too many sunburns), summer is officially over. It’s depressing, I know, but fall welcomes a whole host of weather-appropriate activities and trips. What better way is there to spend a crisp fall weekend than exploring a state park?

Black Rock Mountain State Park. Photo Courtesy of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites.
On Sept. 26, Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites is offering free admission at all 63 of its parks and historic sites to thank visitors and volunteers for their support of outdoor recreation and historic preservation during a difficult year. The regular $5 parking fee will be waived, historic sites will open their doors free of charge and anglers will not need to purchase a fishing license. Celebrate by partaking in one of the family-friendly activities, such as creating nature art or taking a guided night hike, or volunteer for a service project to help maintain the beauty of state parks for future visitors.
Visitors interested in extending their stay will find that many lodges have promotional rates starting at $69 per night and that campsites cost about $23 per night.
Nowhere near Georgia? Check out state parks in your area to see if discounted or free admission is being offered. Even if you have to pay a fee, state parks are a rewarding and inexpensive way to spend a weekend.
For more information, visit www.georgiastateparks.org.
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