38 Forests to Explore in Georgia

The Altamaha Wildlife Management Area is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Spanning across 43,200 acres of land and 688 acres of water, the area is a hotspot for numerous species of fish, birds and mammals. Here you can find Marsh Wrens, American White Pelicans and Ospreys nesting among its giant Oak and Bald Cypress trees. Fishing opportunities abound thanks to its interesting topography – from hundreds of acres in shallow or submerged areas to deep depression ponds.

Amerson River Park contains 180 acres of pristine forests, meadows, and wetlands surrounded by a river oxbow. The park boasts several high bluffs that provide beautiful views of the river and its banks.

Bartram Forest Wildlife Management Area, is a dream destination for nature lovers. Spanning over 870 acres, the area offers a fascinating array of flora and fauna. The forest is home to many species of birds, deer, turkeys and other wildlife creatures which make it an ideal spot for hunting and bird watching. Bartram is well connected with various hiking trails and roads so visitors can explore the natural beauty of the region easily.

The Blue Ridge WMA provides a unique wildlife viewing and recreational experience. Covering more than 4700 acres of heavily forested mountains, this area is a haven for many species of birds, mammals and other wildlife. Visitors to the area can enjoy activities like hunting, fishing, hiking and camping while taking in the picturesque surroundings, which include waterfalls and rolling hills. The WMA also offers access to trout streams, hunting camps, rustic roads and so more.

Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge offers a landscape like no other. Established in 2000, it's comprised of more than 4,400 acres covering swampland, streams and upland forests. Visitors enjoy multiple trails for hiking and bird watching, as well as nature programs for children and adults alike. The swamp itself is home to several species of native wildlife including river otters, deer and turkey, while the uplands offer sightings of various birds and reptiles.

The beautiful Broad River Wildlife Management is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Located between the main stem of the Broad River and two oxbow lakes, the area provides plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, hunting, hiking and other outdoor activities. It consists mostly of mature hardwood forests with some small clearing for native grasslands and wetlands. The scrub pine flatwoods along the rivers also provide habitats for many plant and animal species.

The Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery is filled with marvelous sights and sounds. Here, it's possible to get close up with some of the most abundant fish species native to the area, including Rainbow and Brook Trout, Striped Bass and Brown Trout. Guided tours and educational programs provide fascinating insight into this unique ecosystem. Visitors can also explore a seventeen-acre historic building located on site, that was once used for hatching eggs.

The Chattahoochee Nature Center is a private, non-profit environmental education facility in Roswell, Georgia. Located on 127 acres adjacent to the Chattahoochee River, the nature center focuses on educational outreach through the use of live flora and fauna. The mission of the Chattahoochee Nature Center is to connect people to nature.

The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests offer a wide range of outdoor activities for nature and adventure enthusiasts. These spectacular forests are home to over 600 miles of trails, enabling visitors to traverse the region on foot or by bike. Wilderness camping is also available, offering an immersive experience in the mountainous landscape that makes up the area. Additionally, numerous rivers and lakes within the region host boating and fishing activities.

This two-million-acre park provides recreational opportunities for thousands of visitors every year, from hiking and kayaking to fishing and archery. Along with its spectacular trees, shrubs and wildlife, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is also part of the longest section of the Appalachian Trail – the 3 million acres that stretch from Maine to Mountain City, GA. With 15 designated wilderness areas complimentary camping sites around lakes and streams.

The Chattooga River Trail offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for outdoor adventurers. Spanning 13 miles along the historic and scenic Chattooga River, the trail provides a breathtaking view of numerous waterfalls, cascades, and deep gorges. Hikers will also find a variety of wildflowers and trees among their route. For those looking to explore further into nature, the trail has many campground sites near the river allowing visitors to spend extended periods of time in the surrounding area.

Chehaw Park is an 1,100-acre nature park perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. With 18 miles of trails for hikers and bikers as well as paddleboats and canoes, the park allows guests to explore the environment up close. Just a few of the animal inhabitants of the area include river otters, bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, blue herons, and wild turkeys. There is also a reptile house as well as a kid's petting zoo where visitors can interact with indigenous wildlife safely.

Cohutta Wilderness lies in southeastern Tennessee and northwestern Georgia. Spanning over 35,000 acres, it offers a natural, breathtaking sight for those willing to explore it. The Wilderness is covered in rolling hills and streams, making it popular amongst hikers and campers alike. It also provides an environment for abundant wildlife, including black bears and wild turkeys. In Morgan County, Georgia, visitors can enjoy the nearby Conasauga River and Jacks River trails.

Cohutta Wilderness is a popular destination for outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts. With over 35,000 acres of rugged terrain, the area boasts an impressive variety of activities including hunting, fishing, backpacking, camping, hiking and more. With its sprawling trails that stretch across numerous mountain ranges, visitors can expect to come across some beautiful vistas of alpine forests and meadows.

Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area is an excellent spot for nature-lovers. Home to a variety of flora and fauna, the area is immensely popular among hikers and bird watchers. Spanning approximately 5,000 acres of lush mountainside vicinity and riverside meadows, the area boasts dozens of species including warblers, pileated woodpeckers, wild turkeys and white-tailed deer. It also has more than 130 species of vascular plants that attribute to its vibrant beauty.

Dauset Trails Nature Center is a private, non-profit nature center located near Jackson, Georgia. The nature center is open year-round, except for certain holidays. Its mission is "to provide quality environmental education, outdoor recreation, and an understanding of early farm life through close and intimate contact with Georgia’s preserved flora and fauna.

The Dawson Forest - City of Atlanta Tract, is a beautiful forested area covering approximately 3,435 acres. It consists primarily of pine and hardwood trees that provide a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Activities such as fishing, hiking, and camping are popular amongst visitors who come to experience the natural beauty of this area. Home to lake Julius and Crystal Lake, two man-made reservoirs providing numerous recreational activities for visitors such as swimming and boating.

The Dawson Forest Wildlife Management Area covers over 12,000 acres of rural terrain composed of loblolly and short leaf pines, as well as some hardwoods. It is well known for its deer and turkey hunting that is available to the public year-round. The area also serves as a sanctuary for endangered species like the gopher tortoise, indigo snake and timber rattlesnake. In addition there are several great places to explore such as the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site and Cohutta Wilderness.

The Emery Creek Trail is a hidden gem! 2.6 miles long, the trail meanders through some of the region's most serene woodlands, offering beautiful views of lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. You'll pass over bridges and along bubbling brooks as you make your way further down the trail. Whether you're looking for a new place to explore or want to reconnect with nature, this trail is an ideal destination for outdoor adventurers.

F.D. Roosevelt State Park is a must-visit for anyone who loves outdoor recreation. Spanning over 9,049 acres of land, the park features miles of hiking trails and ten lakes from which to enjoy swimming, boating, fishing and more. For those looking to picnic with friends and family, there are numerous pavilions or you can rent one of the 12 cottages right in the park. Visitors come back again and again for the incredible birdwatching opportunities.