With three grandkids in tow, we decided to get out of the house and go on a day trip adventure to two nearby state parks.
Indian Springs State Park
Recognized as one of the oldest state parks in the United States, Indian Springs State Park has its origins in a series of treaties between the Creek Nation, the US, and the state of Georgia in the 1820s. Conflict stemming from expansion of white settlements onto historic Creek lands culminated in the Creek War of 1813-1814, treaties ceding Creek land to the US under pressure, and ultimately the Creek Removal of the 1830s in the Trail of Tears. The area directly around the springs was set-aside to became the oldest state-owned recreation area in the country. In 1927 the State of Georgia officially named the property Indian Springs State Park, making it Georgia’s oldest state park.
The first stop was the Indian Springs playground to get the wiggles out.
The next stop was the historic stone Spring House where folks still come to collect water from the natural artesian spring known for its homeopathic qualities and price (it’s free). The water picks up many minerals as it is forced to the surface, leading to its unique “sulphur” smell. The kids were intrigued, but they all agreed that it did not smell appealing (note Evelyn is holding her nose!).
Then, for the highlight of our trip we played in the rushing stream and climbed on the rocks and boulders of Big Sand Creek. Some brave souls slide down the rocks to small pools, but our party was too young for that.
We stopped by nearby Fresh Air BBQ in Jackson GA where they have been serving legit BBQ since 1925! As usual this place treated us right.
We all ate enough BBQ on this super hot summer day to earn some hand-dipped ice cream back in Indian Springs from the most adorable ice cream shop ever – Mrs. Lee’s Stagecoach Sweet Shop.
High Falls State Park
On the way home we made a quick detour to High Falls SP to see the tallest cascading waterfall south of Atlanta as it tumbles onto the Towaliga River. High Falls Lake is a top family bass fishing destination.
There was a small campground around the lake with the yurts occupying the premium spots (as usual).
What a fun day trip for all ages. The lesson of this story is to just do it! Get outdoors. Georgia State Parks have a lot to offer.