20 Attractions to Explore Near Hard Labor Creek State Park

Lake Rutledge is a 650-acre lake in Morgan County. It is a popular fishing and recreation destination, making it an important asset to the local community. Visitors enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, camping and other outdoor activities on the lake’s pristine waters. The lake has a maximum depth of 30 feet and is stocked with different species of fish throughout the year, including largemouth bass and bream which make great catches for anglers.

Hard Labor Creek State Park offers a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere for visitors to explore and relax amid nature. Camping areas, cabins, and group lodges are available for overnight stays in the beautiful area. Its many trails provide an opportunity for hikers to discover local wildlife and plants. Fishing is also permitted on Hard Labor Creek Lake where there is an array of largemouth bass, redear sunfish, and catfish waiting to be caught.

Bonar Hall, is a charming and picturesque antebellum mansion built in 1862 near the Oconee River. The hall was named for William Bonar, the former owner, and for generations has been home to various cotton farmers. Today, it stands as a restored example of Southern hospitality and historical architecture: a reminder of simpler times gone by. Boasting three stories that stretch across nearly 5,000 square feet of living space.

Madison Historic District, is a colorful reminder of the past. Founded before 1810, the district is largely comprised of 18th and 19th century architecture, including Federal, Greek Revival, Italianate and Gothic styles. Within the district are also several churches and cemeteries. These elements all contribute to the rich history that pervades every corner of Madison Historic District. Famous for hosting Samuel Elbert Day in 1862.

The Madison-Morgan Cultural center, is a beautiful performing arts and education center that provides exciting programs and activities year-round. It offers a 250-seat theater with state-of-the-art lighting and sound, as well as workshops for aspiring performers. Programs include drama and music classes, summer camps for kids, performances by local artists, special movie nights, holiday events, art exhibitions, and more.

Rogers House Museum is a stunning historic home built by William Dudley Rogers for his family in 1901 and is currently administered by the Madison Morgan Cultural Center. Drawing upon its rich history and cultural significance, Rogers House Museum offers a unique glimpse into early 20th century life complete with original furnishings and artifacts from the time period. Visitors can take guided tours of the house to learn about the history of local families.

Alcovy Mountain is a prominent geographical feature stands 620 feet tall, its undulating ridge running from the Georgia-North Carolina state line all the way to the bustling Atlanta suburbs. The mountain is a well-known landmark used to orient local residents and visitors, and it was once home to 19th century gold prospectors who aimed to strike it rich in its depths. Nowadays, the mountain's slopes are much quieter, but still draw fans of outdoor recreation.

The McDaniel-Tichenor House, was built in the 1840s by Dr. William and Mary Tichenor. This two-story house served as their family residence until 1865 when it was purchased by Benjamin McDaniel who, along with his wife Frances Jones, resided at the property for four decades. The house is a classic example of Greek revival architecture featuring plastered walls and columns on the front and back facades.

Monroe, is a charming small town with a population of about 13,000. Located in the northeast Georgia foothills, Monroe has access to Lake Lanier and the mountains of North Georgia for outdoor activities like fishing, boating and camping. There are plenty of shopping and dining options downtown, including fun family attractions like Puzzle Gardens and Boardtown Games. Monroe also offers diverse cultural attractions such as museums and art galleries that are sure to keep visitors entertained.

The Steffen Thomas Museum of Art is an impressive site that captures the very essence of southern art and culture. The museum features both permanent and rotating exhibits from a variety of talented artists, all of which resonate with the local heritage. Works span American portraits and landscape paintings, as well as early European representations in oil, watercolor, wood carving, plus sketches and drawings.

Lake Oconee is a true Georgia gem located in the rolling hills of Morgan County. It boasts over a hundred miles of shoreline perfect for fishing, skiing and boating adventures. The lake is ideal for swimming and leisurely relaxation, with its crystal clear waters that give way to superb views of the natural surroundings. Its size allows plenty of space to explore, with many coves, inlets and trees scattered around its edges that are home to abundant wildlife.

This Wildlife Center, offers a unique opportunity to experience the nature and wildlife of this beautiful area. The center provides access to nearly 10,000 acres of managed wildlife habitats, ranging from upland hardwoods to wetlands. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities from fishing, biking and bird-watching to photography and archery. There are also educational programs centered around conservation, sustainability and appreciation for the environment for all ages.

Covington Square, is an ideal place to take a stroll and explore some delightful attractions. Its beautifully landscaped park features a gazebo for visitors to relax and a bubbling fountain at its center. For those who prefer to enjoy the outdoors, there are walking trails that weave through nearby woods and gardens blooming with exotic flowers. The historical courthouse and jail sit on the square's perimeter, offering glimpses into the area's fascinating past.

The Emory-Blakeman-Penick House, located in Woodford County, Kentucky, is a historic landmark reflecting the architectural heritage and cultural significance of the region.

The Elder Mill Covered Bridge is a unique and charming structure that bridges the North Oconee River. It was built in 1904 and is still an important transportation link for the surrounding areas, as well as a popular spot for hikers, cyclists, and sightseers. Its 105-foot span is one of the longest single-lane covered bridges in the state. The bridge pays homage to its heritage with its design which features intricate latticework and diamond pattern trusses.

The William Harris Homestead is a true marvel. Constructed around 1835, it is one of the earliest examples of Greek Revival architecture in east Georgia. In 1999, the house was placed on the National Register of Historic Places due to its architectural and historical importance. Although much of what makes the homestead so impressive is its outside structure, it also contains five rooms that are full of original family artifacts.

The Georgia International Horse Park is known for its great horseback riding opportunities. The 632 acre park was opened in 1996 as part of the preparations for the 1996 Summer Olympics, making it one of only six equestrian sites to have ever been used for an Olympic Game. Designed to accommodate various riding styles from pleasure-riding to competitive events, the park offers 20 miles of well maintained trails that extend into a beautiful countryside full of wildlife.

Piedmont Park is an idyllic spot for a picnic or a day of outdoor recreation. Nestled deep within the woods, this serene spot offers plenty of open space to explore and enjoy. Visitors find miles of trails, lush greenery and trickling streams that meander alongside the park. In addition to its more traditional offerings, Piedmont Park also features amenities such as horseshoe pits, disc golf courses and playgrounds for children.

The first and oldest organized garden club in the United States is the Ladies' Garden Club of Athens, Georgia. It started in 1891 with a gathering of twelve women friends who shared plants and plant cuttings. It was formally organized the following year. is an organized group of people with a shared interest in gardening, gardens, and plants.

The State Botanical Garden of Georgia is a botanical garden of 313 acres in the United States, with a conservatory operated by the University of Georgia. It is located at 2450 South Milledge Avenue, Athens, Georgia. The Garden contains eleven botanical and horticultural collections