Camping at Picnic Shelters

Overview

George L. Smith State Park is a beautiful state park located in the U.S. state of Georgia, well-known for its cypress swamps, wildlife, and outdoor recreational opportunities. It is named after George Leonard Smith III, a former speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives who was instrumental in creating the park. The park is a popular destination for camping, fishing, hiking, and especially picnicking.

Picnic Shelters

Availability and Reservation: Picnic shelters in George L. Smith State Park can typically be reserved in advance. It is a good idea to book the shelters as early as possible, especially during peak seasons or on weekends, as they can fill up quickly due to the park's popularity.

Capacity and Amenities: The picnic shelters in the park are designed to accommodate a variety of group sizes, and amenities may include picnic tables, grills for cooking, nearby restrooms, and easy access to the park’s facilities and trails. Specific details about the capacity of each shelter and the included amenities will vary, so you should check with the park for the most accurate and current information.

Fees: There are user fees for reserving picnic shelters, which contribute to the maintenance and operation of the park. The fee structure can change, and there might be different rates for peak and off-peak times, as well as for different sizes of shelters or for resident and non-resident reservations.

Usage Rules: It's essential to familiarize yourself with the rules set forth by the park for the use of picnic shelters. Typically, these might include:

• Restrictions on the type of activities permitted within the shelter
• Cleaning up after your event to ensure the space is left in good condition
• Adhering to park hours and noise ordinances

General Park Information

Park Hours: Like most state parks, George L. Smith State Park has specific opening and closing hours that you need to adhere to when planning your picnic or other activities.

Activities: Aside from picnicking, George L. Smith State Park offers a variety of activities, such as:

• Boating
• Fishing on the park's 412-acre millpond
• Hiking on various nature trails
• Bird watching
• Paddle boarding and canoeing
• Geocaching

Wildlife: The park is home to a wide range of wildlife. Visitors have the opportunity to see various bird species, turtles, alligators, and perhaps even deer and other mammals.

Accommodations and Facilities: For those wishing to stay overnight, accommodations such as camping sites, cottages, and group lodges may be available. Facilities could include a museum, a visitor center, playgrounds for children, and boat rentals.

Contact Information: For the most up-to-date and detailed information, it is wise to contact the park directly by phone or through their official website. Park staff can provide the latest on shelter availability, fees, rules, and other recreational opportunities.

When planning your visit to George L. Smith State Park, always check local weather conditions and bring suitable outdoor equipment to ensure a comfortable and safe outing. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park’s natural beauty for future visitors.