Georgians: Want to Get Into Camping?

by
posted on March 3, 2015
nrafam_famadv.jpg

undefinedIf you've never camped out before, getting started may seem a bit intimidating. There's lots of gear to buy, and some of us aren't too sure we'd be good at putting tent parts together. Now Georgia State Parks' First-Time Camper Program, designed to let newbies "test drive" the fun of camping in a supportive environment, will be offered this March in 13 state parks across Georgia. The program, which includes free equipment donated by REI and Coleman, allows first-timers to see if they enjoy sleeping under the stars before investing in their own gear.

For just $50, guests spend two nights in a modern campground, trying out all the necessary gear. Park staff or volunteers will greet campers upon arrival, give tips on setting up the tent, and offer a Camping 101 lesson. Equipment donated by REI and Coleman includes a family tent, sleeping pads, chairs, camp stove, fuel and lantern. Bathrooms and hot showers are a short walk from the campsite. At the end of their getaway, campers return the gear and go home with memories to last forever.

Georgia's State Parks currently in the program include A.H. Stephens in Crawfordville, F.D. Roosevelt in Pine Mountain, Fort Mountain near Chatsworth, Fort Yargo in Winder, General Coffee near Douglas, Gordonia-Alatamaha in Reidsville, James H. Floyd near Summerville, Magnolia Springs in Millen, Reed Bingham in Adel, Red Top Mountain on Lake Allatoona, Richard B. Russell on Lake Russell, Skidaway Island in Savannah and Stephen C. Foster in the Okefenokee Swamp. Both Fort Mountain and Red Top Mountain have enough equipment for larger families or groups up to 20 people.

Anyone who has never camped in a Georgia State Park may participate. While leashed dogs are normally welcome in campgrounds, they are not allowed in the First-Time Camper program since gear is shared among participants. Once settled in, guests can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, boating, geocaching, mini-golf, wildlife programs and many other activities. Reservations are required and must be made by calling the individual parks.

To learn more, visit GeorgiaStateParks.org/FirstTimeCamper.

Latest

Cure A Flinch Lede
Cure A Flinch Lede

3 For Flinching! Tips to Iron Out That Flinch

Flinching at a loud sound and recoil is a natural response, but you can overcome it. Here's how.

Fun Friday: 6 Things You Didn't Know About Pronghorn Antelopes

Get the skinny on the critter affectionately known as a "speed goat."

Henry Guns For Great Causes: $25K For Pheasants & Quails

The lever-gun manufacturer supports Pheasants Forever and Quails Forever ... so we can enjoy wingshooting forever.

Video Review: Savage 93 Minimalist Rifle

Trim, simple, ergonomic and Savagely accurate ... the 93 Minimalist .22 rifle deserves a spot in your gun safe!

7 Questions To Find the Best Beginner's Shotgun

Answer these seven questions and you'll have the perfect first scattergun.

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.