ATLANTA — Grilling burgers in the shade and camping under the stars are some of the July Fourth activities offered in Georgia’s state parks and historic sites.

Want to learn about our nation’s independence? Visit Fort Morris near Midway for the Colonial Faire and cannon firings. Want to see fireworks? Gather at Seminole State Park on July 2 for an early show.

July Fourth weekend is always busy in Georgia’s parks, so visitors are encouraged to reserve campsites, cabins and picnic shelters in advance. Reservations can be made up to 13 months in advance by calling 1-800-864-7275 or online at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org.

State parks welcome visitors to come for just the day as well. For a $5 parking fee, guests can cool off in a lake, hike trails and even fish for dinner. Many parks rent stand-up paddleboats and kayaks. Some of the state’s historic forts will showcase America’s history with musket firings, military drills and displays.

Rangers encourage picnics, but not fireworks, which are not allowed in any parks or sites.

Here are more ideas:

• Find ranger-led hikes, old-timey games, firework displays and more programs at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/events.

• Picnic shelters and enclosed group shelters can be reserved. All offer views, and grills and restrooms are nearby. Reservations should be made in advance for these popular shelters. Individuals can use picnic tables scattered throughout all of Georgia’s state parks for free.

• Swimming beaches are free once visitors pay the parking fee. Beaches are listed at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/swimming.