Georgia’s State Parks can make holiday shopping easy for the outdoor lovers on your list. Give them 36 lakes, 13 Indian mounds, eight golf courses, three forts, one train and a swamp when you wrap up gift cards and memberships for some of Georgia’s most beautiful places. Below are a few gift ideas that will last long after the egg nog is gone.
Gift Cards
Gift cards can be used for campsites, cabins, yurts, golf, retail shops, historic site admission, boat rental and numerous other outdoor activities. Cards come in any denomination starting at $5 and can be re-loaded for continued use. They may be purchased in most state park offices or by calling 1-800-434-0982. For a list of participating parks and details, visit www.GaStateParks.org/gift-card.
Annual ParkPass
Perfect for frequent park visitors, the Annual ParkPass provides unlimited access to 47 state parks with no $5 parking fee. For just $50 -- or $25 for seniors 62 and older -- pass holders can return again and again to enjoy hiking, fishing, paddling and relaxing. To purchase an annual pass, stop by a state park office, call 770-389-7401 or email CustomerService@GeorgiaStateParks.org.
Membership to Friends of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites
A “Friends of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites” membership helps protect Georgia’s natural and historic resources, while providing valuable discounts. Membership levels begin at $55 for an individual and include the benefits of a free Annual ParkPass, a free night of camping or round of golf, historic site admission discounts and additional perks. Visit www.FriendsofGaStateparks.org or call 1-888-948-2092.
Books, Hiking Sticks, Stuffed Animals and More
Many of Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites have gift shops filled with inexpensive presents for all ages, including nature books for children and travel guides for adults. Hiking and camping supplies, t-shirts and hats, toys and stuffed animals, and themed décor will make outdoor lovers know that thought went into their gift. History lovers will appreciate items from Etowah Indian Mounds, Fort King George, Roosevelt’s Little White House and other historic sites. To find a nearby gift shop, visit www.GaStateParks.org.
Golf Getaways
Natural scenery and diverse layouts make Georgia State Park golf a sought-after gift. Links lovers will appreciate a getaway to one of the eight state park courses. Package prices vary, depending on accommodations ranging from campsites to cabins. For details and the latest specials, visitwww.GaStateParks.org/golfing.
Georgia Natural Resources Foundation Donation
Make a gift in someone’s name to this 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports the preservation of Georgia’s natural and cultural resources through projects, activities and programs. To learn more about this foundation that works closely with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, visitwww.georgianrf.org.
For help in planning a holiday staycation for friends or family, visit www.GaStateParks.org or call 1-800-864-PARK (7275). Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites are operated by the Department of Natural Resources