38 Forests to Explore in Georgia

Fernbank Forest is a 65-acre urban hardwood forest, provides visitors the perfect opportunity to take a step back and explore nature. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the area, such as bird watching, and self-guided educational trails that discuss local flora and fauna. At Fernbank Forest, one can experience a diverse range of habitats, including swamps, creeks, wetlands, bottomland hardwoods and tidal ponds that support a plethora of wildlife.

Guale Preserve is a stunning natural area that provides the perfect opportunity to explore the outdoors. Mature hardwood hammocks at 44 feet high are some of the tallest trees in Georgia, providing amazing wildlife and bird watching opportunities. Picturesque blackwater creeks and marshlands interweave through the preserve, allowing visitors to view all manner of wildlife including Wetland species such as red-bellied turtle, fiddler crab, and roseate spoonbill.

Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge is a 2,762-acre refuge providing an important habitat for a number of wildlife species. Home to hundreds of birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles, the refuge also serves as a key migratory stopover and resting point for osprey, northern Harriers and bald eagles. Visitors to the refuge can enjoy four hiking trails that range from one to six miles long as well as five story observation towers which allow visitors to observe wildlife from above.

Len Foote Hike Inn offers a unique way to immerse oneself in nature. Located five miles from Amicalola Falls State Park, this rustic retreat features 20 cozy cottages that allow visitors to experience the beauty of the outdoors with all of the comforts of home. All meals are included with a two-night stay, and there is also a laundry service for guests. Plus, access to 22 miles of trails and trips to nearby destinations can be arranged for those looking for adventure.

This Preserve, offers an adventure into stunning natural beauty and a unique ecosystem. Visitors can explore the beautiful canyon by hiking along the rim or wading in the river below. The 15,000-acre preserve encompasses land charged with history of the Creek Indians and Cherokee Nation as well as a number of sites listed on the US National Register of Historic Places. Vistas from high atop Lookout Mountain offer breathtaking views of both the river and towering cliffs below.

The Ocmulgee Wildlife Management Area is a stunningly beautiful 26 acre parcel of land used for hunting and wildlife observation. Visitors can engage in archery hunting throughout the year as well as firearms deer hunting during designated seasons. The area also has extensive wetlands complete with boardwalks that makes it a great birding location when the weather is agreeable. The area also holds educational programs that explore the Hawks Reads program.

The Chattahoochee–Oconee National Forest in northern Georgia comprises two United States National Forests, the Oconee National Forest in eastern Georgia and the Chattahoochee National Forest located in the North Georgia Mountains. The Chattahoochee National Forest is composed of an eastern and western forest. The western forest contains Johns Mountain, Little Sand Mountain, and Taylor Ridge. One of the beautiful trekking destination in Georgia.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is a magical paradise where nature thrives and visitors can spot wild animals ranging from alligators to turtles to 218 species of birds. Here, visitors can explore the swamp on canoes, kayaks and boats as they take in the breathtaking views offered. The refuge offers six maintained trails for biking or hiking that allow guests to get up close and personal with nature's wonders.

The Okefenokee Wilderness, is known as one of the largest and most pristine wetlands in North America. Spanning over 400,000 acres of prairies and forests, it harbors a variety of wildlife species within its borders. It's also home to hundreds of species of trees, plants and wildflowers which make the serene landscape come alive during spring and summer months. Additionally It is composed of 900 lakes and vistas of peaceful salt marshes that stretch for miles along the shorelines.

Raven Cliffs Wilderness is a nature lover's paradise. It consists of 4,891 acres and has breathtaking waterfalls, miles of trails for both hiking and backpacking, and diverse wildlife. It has many elevated points with stunning views of this beautiful forest on the Appalachian Mountains. You can fish in the trout-stocked Dukes Creek or swim in its clear waters. Four-thousand acre Raven Cliffs Wilderness offers memories to be made while enjoying those perfect moments of connecting with nature.

Reynolds Nature Preserve in Clayton county, Georgia, is a natural wonderland that will delight all ages. Spanning over 400 acres, the preserve offers something for everyone—hikers and wildlife enthusiasts alike can enjoy the many trails and boardwalks throughout the woods, as well as marvel at the abundant flora and fauna. Visitors can take part in bird watching through a variety of habitats, including wetlands, swamps, and upland forests.

Rich Mountain Wilderness spans 12,000 acres of stunning beauty, framed by the peaks of the Chattahoochee National Forest and sweeping down 2,000 feet to the Coosawattee River, this area is a haven for wildlife. The terrain offers gorgeous vistas with lush vegetation including hardwoods, hemlocks and pines. For those seeking a deeper exploration, 160 miles of trails will lead ambitious outdoors adventurers across the creeks and rivers of the region in search of waterfalls.

Rich Mountain Wilderness is an incredible outdoors experience. Boasting more than 17,000 acres of lush green forest, this region will astound you with its sheer beauty and grandeur. From hiking trails to camping spots, fishing to swimming in various creeks, visitors are left with a sense of serenity that is hard to replicate anywhere else. The Rich Mountain Wilderness also boasts some magnificent animal life with deer, raccoon and river otter amongst the wildlife commonly seen by visitors.

Sapelo Island Wildlife Management Area is a stunning example of coastal nature and wildlife. Located just off the coast of Georgia, Sapelo Island covers over 4,500 acres of marshes, tidal creeks, maritime forests, sand dunes, and beachfront. There are incredible opportunities here to witness more than 200 species of birds soar across the skies and explore their habitats throughout the island.

Savannah National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful piece of nature. It encompasses nearly 30,000 acres of protected habitat and coastal marsh, sloughs and waterways, providing a safe haven for more than 280 species of birds, 45 species of amphibians and reptiles, 31 types of mammals, fish, and various other kinds of wildlife. The refuge also consists of several trails that bring visitors right into the heart of nature and evidence Savannah’s rich Native American presence.

Stafford Plantation, Founded in 1786 by Samuel Stafford and his brother John, the land was developed for farming that provided coastal-salt marsh hay to meet the demands of soldiers in fort McAllister. The plantation went through many owners over most of the 19th century until eventually it fell into disuse. In 1972, Carol Gartrell-Stafford purchased the property and began renovating it. Today it is used as an event venue space for weddings, receptions, and corporate events.

Swallow Creek Wildlife Management Area is a stunning natural escape. Famous for its wildflowers and great variety of species of both animals and birds, this area covers 3,250 acres. Besides the natural beauty, there are also primary activities that include camping, hunting, fishing and nature observation. One can stay overnight anywhere in the management area; however camping is only allowed in the 2 designated campsites which have restroom facilities available.

Tray Mountain Wilderness is a remote and sprawling mountainous region of 4,921 acres. With altitudes ranging from 1,400 to 4,410 feet above sea level, this wilderness area is characterized by steep ravines and mountain ridges covered with oak and poplar forests. It is also home to several tumbling waterfalls, including Dicks Creek Falls which cascades over 300 feet. For those seeking adventure and stunning scenery alike, Tray Mountain has something unique to offer.