You can power walk, jog, stroll and bike through Lilburn, thanks to the Camp Creek Greenway Trail, which runs east to west within the city limits.
The trail, comprised of pavement and boardwalk, connects Old Town with Rockbridge Road (1.36 miles) to the west and Killian Hill Road (1.04 miles) to the east. Both ends of the trail meet at Lilburn City Park.
Including the half-mile trail in the park, there are three miles of easily accessible trails that can accommodate walkers, runners and cyclists of all skill levels.
The Greenway weaves through wooded areas and alongside the railway that runs through town. There are bridges, rest areas and a passive park with a small loop trail. The trail has become a popular lunch hour activity for people who want to get a little bit of exercise in the middle of the workday.
Pets are allowed, but owners are expected to clean up after them.
Mason Mill Park is the largest park in the North Druid Hills community. Its major features include a multi-use field, tennis courts, recreation center, picnic area, lake and trails, a community garden and other amenities. It also underwent a major renovation in 2010 and upgrades continue.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park preserves a Civil War battleground of the Atlanta Campaign. The park is 2,923 acres and includes Kennesaw Mountain, along with three historic battlefield areas. Hikers may explore its many trails, which pass by earthworks and Civil War-era cannons. The park also offers educational programs such as the Junior Ranger Program.
Skidaway Island State Park is part of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources State Parks program. With six miles of hiking trails snaking throughout the coastal salt marsh, the park shows off many original Civil War earthworks and mounds that were used to defend Savannah.
How to get to Skidaway Island State Park
The park is accessible by private vehicle only. From historic downtown Savannah, take Harry S. Truman Parkway south. Exit at Whitfield Avenue after about 8.5 miles and make a left. Go straight for approximately four miles and then turn left onto State Park Road. Signs will guide you into the park.
Best and worst time to go to Skidaway Island State Park
It is best to avoid the heat of the day, and plan to arrive at 7:00 a.m. when the park opens. Alternatively, visitors may enjoy evening sunset hikes. The park closes at 10:00 p.m.
Admission to Skidaway Island State Park
Admission is assessed at $5.00 per vehicle. Passenger vans carrying 13-30 people are charged $30.00. Campsites range from $26.00 - $45.00.
Must see/do at Skidaway Island State Park
If you only have time for one hike on your visit, opt for the Sandpiper Trail Loop. At just one mile, it will take you over boardwalks and allow you to view the Liquor Still Site and the remaining Confederate Earthworks.
Other places to visit near Skidaway Island State Park
Historic downtown Savannah is a quick 15 minute drive, and the Tybee Island beaches are within a 30-40 minute drive.
Insider tip for visitors to Skidaway Island State Park
Be sure to grab a schedule when you stop in at the ranger's office to buy your parking pass. The park offers (nearly) daily programs that are kid-friendly. Offerings include lectures about the different types of wildlife on the island, craft activities, bird watching, and safety tips.
Author's bio: Jamie Davis is a freelance writer and top-selling author with Llewellyn Worldwide. She lives on Wilmington Island, an area of Savannah, Georgia. She loves all things coastal Georgia and if pressed to describe herself in one word, she would choose "traveler." She can be found at http://jamiedaviswrites.com.
Traveling East on Browns Bridge Road (GA Highway 369) this park is located just before the Six Mile Creek Bridge on Charleston Park Road. This 154-acre park is one of the newest leased parks from the Army Corps of Engineers, who are responsible for maintaining Lake Lanier. Full development of the park is still being considered with more recreation opportunities in mind. Currently the park provides boat ramps, trailer parking, picnic tables and grills. There is not a public beach at this park.