Bike Trails Paths Near Me in Wray
Stephen C. Foster State Park
17515 Hwy. 177, Fargo, GA
This remote park is a primary entrance to the legendary Okefenokee Swamp—one of Georgia's seven natural wonders. Spanish moss-laced trees reflect off the black swamp waters, while cypress knees rise upward from the glass-like surface. Here, paddlers and photographers will enjoy breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. Alligators, turtles, raccoons, black bears, deer, ibis, herons, wood storks, red-cockaded woodpeckers and numerous other creatures make their homes in the 402,000 acre refuge. Stargazers will appreciate the particularly dark sky.
Same-day reservations are recommended for guided boat tours of the swamp. Sunset and night tours may be available. More adventurous visitors may wish to rent canoes, kayaks or jon boats for further exploration of the swamp, including a trip to historic Billy’s Island. Fishing in the lake is excellent, particularly for warmouth, bluegill, catfish, chain pickerel and bowfin. Boating is dependent upon water levels.
Perhaps the most famous inhabitant of the Okefenokee Swamp is the American Alligator. Officials estimate that 12,000 of the country’s largest reptile live within the refuge. To safely view these creatures, visitors should admire them from a distance and keep hands and feet inside boats. Pets are not allowed in boats, even privately owned vessels.
Things To Do & See
Astronomy
Biking
Birding
Boating — 10 HP limit
Fishing
Geocaching
Hiking — 1.5 miles of trails
Paddling— 15 miles of waterways
Park Paddlers Club
Photography
Programs & Private Tours
Bike Rental
Boat, Kayak & Canoe Rental
Archery (no open range, events only)
Panola Mountain State Park
2620 Highway 155 SouthWest, Stockbridge, GA
Just 15 minutes from Atlanta is a recreational haven for all ages and interests. Visitors can picnic while children work off energy on the playground. Anglers can bring their fishing poles to catch dinner at Alexander Lake. The park even offers archery, boat rental, geocaching, orienteering, birding and tree-climbing programs. A paved trail is open for biking, roller blading, jogging and dog-walking, while forested fitness trails are open for hiking and running.
Panola Mountain is a 100-acre granite outcrop similar to Stone Mountain, but smaller and much more pristine. Park visitors will see the outcrop and its rare ecosystem just as Native Americans did centuries ago. Reservations are required for ranger-led hikes that teach about the rare plants and animals found in this habitat.
Panola Mountain State Park is the crown jewel of the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, one of only three National Heritage Areas in the state. The park’s unusual natural beauty and intriguing cultural changes are the basis for this special recognition. Over the years, this area has been home to early settlers, immigrant rock cutters, freed slaves and even Trappist monks. Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area is a partnership among the state of Georgia; DeKalb, Henry and Rockdale counties; the Monastery of the Holy Spirit; and numerous communities and public-private partners. Panola has also been designated a National Natural Landmark.
Things To Do & See:
Archery — Archery Range Information (fee - annual pass available)
Biking — PATH Trail
Birthday Parties
Birding
Bouldering — permit required
Fishing
Geocaching
Hiking — 25 miles of trails, PATH Trail
Interpretive Programs
Muddy Spokes Club
Orienteering
Picnicking
Tree Climbing
Weddings — park approval required
Bike Rental ($10/hour)
Outdoor Fitness Equipment