Quite a lot. On Wednesday, August 27, the Board of Directors for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources responded to Governor Sonny Perdue's request for budget reductions by approving a budget proposal that could result in the closure of six state parks and seven state historic sites -- a total of 13 sites!
In addition to park closures, the budget proposal includes the privatizing of several lodges, the privatizing of our golf courses and the displacement of numerous state park employees.
Our system of 63 State Parks and Historic Sites ranks among the top three in the nation. Millions of visitors each year rely on our parks to provide amazing vacation opportunities and outstanding educational experiences.
You can help by visiting www.PreserveOurStateParks.org and by spreading the word to others!
Please help preserve our parks and historic sites!
Two new chapters form to help the parks!
On August 14th, the Board of Directors for Friends of Georgia State Parks voted unanimously to approve two new chapter Friends organizations. Roosevelt's Little White House State Historic Site and Mistletoe State Park now have active chapters to help with fund raising, volunteer efforts and advocacy. We welcome these chapters to our growing family and wish them much success as they work toward great things for their respective sites.
GO Georgia Day Attracts Crowds to Historic Hofwyl Plantation
On June 14 over 300 people took advantage of the invitation to experience the past at Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation. It was GO (Get Outdoors) Georgia Day, and the former rice plantation and dairy was among the many state-owned properties that waived admission fees for the day and welcomed visitors to take part in special activities. read more »
Hard work, good fun: Tallulah Gorge Workday
by Dan Nee, Secretary, Friends of Tallulah Gorge
Every state park has a number of items that need to be completed but somehow always keep dropping down the priority list due to lack of people power. Tallulah Gorge State Park is no exception. The Tallulah Gorge Workday in May allowed staff to make a list of things they would like to accomplish but can't due to other, higher priorities. TGSP supplied the list, the necessary tools and supplies while Friends of Tallulah Gorge partnered with Georgia Power Company Ambassadors to supply the people power. read more »
Georgia's Great Places - Spring 2008 Newsletter
Our latest newsletter contains articles about the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), updates on Hardman Farm and other features of interest to our members. Check it out online by clicking here.
Friends of DNR Search and Rescue needs your help
The Friends of DNR Search and Rescue is working hard to ensure the team is one of the best in the country. The DNR Search and Rescue Team conducts regular training and drills to keep their skills sharp and their team in top condition. As with any emergency response team, having access to the right tools, equipment and experience are critical to their success. You can help! read more »
Tom Mills of Friends Family on the Go, reviews the budget reductions that could impact the state park system.
'Staycation' at Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites
With gas prices hitting records in Georgia, many Georgians are choosing to travel closer to home by taking "staycations." Georgia's collection of 63 state parks and historic sites provides an amazing array of activities and places to stay. Your Friends membership can make your staycation even cheaper!
Deciding where to go can be a big challenge. With so many options in the park system, deciding where to go my be your biggest challenge. But with free camping and lodging discounts included in your Family membership, you'll save wherever you choose to stay. For a unique camping experience, try a yurt. For those looking for a higher level of comfort, a lodge may be for you.
Once you've decided where to lay your head at night, you'll need to plan some activities. Your Friends membership can save you money here too! A Family Membership includes a Historic Site Pass for up to six people. This means your entire family can learn about Sherman's march to the sea, colonial Georgia, or early Native Americans. Also, check out the event calendar to see what's going on around the state.
Your membership makes staycationing even cheaper. For example, a family of five might consider staying at the lodge at Red Top Mountain. From there, a day trip to Etowah Indian Mounds or Pickett's Mill Battlefield. With two free nights of camping in the Family membership, the family could camp for the weekend and visit both historic sites for FREE! How's that for an inexpensive vacation? Or, on Georgia's beautiful coast, why not consider a cottage at Ft. McAllister and then day trips to Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation and Fort Morris or take in the beauty and natural education opportunities at Skidaway Island!
Wherever you choose to go, and whatever you choose to do, we certainly hope you enjoy your staycation and we're glad you've chosen to be a Friend!