Below is the August 2006 Calendar from Georgia's State Parks & Historic Sites. During 2006, Georgia State Parks will celebrate its 75th Anniversary with several commemorative events throughout the state. More information is available at www.gastateparks.org or 1-800-864-7275.
August 2006 * DIVIDED BY REGION
NORTH GEORGIA
Unicoi Station Celebration
Friday, August 4, 8 - 9 p.m.
Saturday, August 5, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Unicoi State Park and Lodge - Helen
This event is in honor of the 75th Anniversary of Georgia State Parks. Celebrate Unicoi's history as "Unicoi Station" with demonstrations on candle dipping, cider makin' and spinning. Concerts will feature Appalachian and old-time mountain music, and festivities will include clogging and Appalachian-style community dancing. $3 parking. (800) 573-9659 ext. 305.
Confederate Encampment
Saturday, August 5, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Hart State Park - Hartwell
Watch weaponry, drilling and marching demonstrations, and then learn about uniforms, tents and equipment from the Civil War. $3 parking. (706) 376-8756.
Gold Fever
Saturday, August 5, 9 - 10:30 a.m.
Smithgall Woods Conservation Area and Lodge - Helen
Gold mining is a fascinating part of the history of Smithgall Woods. Hear more about the history of local gold mining, the geology of the area, see specimens of nuggets, and watch a panning demonstration. Registration is required. $3 parking. (706) 878-3087.
Guided Hike to Martin Mine Trail
Saturday, August 5, 10:30 a.m. - 12p.m.
Smithgall Woods Conservation Area and Lodge - Helen
Enjoy a walk on the one and a half mile Martin Mine Trail and learn about the history of gold mining at this site. Participants will be transported to and from the trail by van, providing an opportunity to see more of the conservation area. Register in advance. $3 parking. (706) 878-3087.
White Tail Deer in Georgia
Saturday, August 5, 8 - 9 p.m.
Tugaloo State Park - Lavonia
Learn about these large mammals and how conservation efforts have been a tremendous success. $3 parking. (706) 356-4362.
Visiting Artist Series
Saturday, August 5, 12, 19 and 26, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday, August 6, 13, 20 and 27, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Unicoi State Park and Lodge - Helen
Talented artists and craftspeople from Georgia and surrounding states will demonstrate their art or craft and have samples for sale. Artists will be set up on the 3rd floor of Unicoi Lodge. $3 parking. (800) 573-9659 ext. 305.
Saturday Evening Music Concerts
Saturday, August 5, 12, 19 and 26, 8 - 9 p.m.
Unicoi State Park and Lodge - Helen
Some of the best musicians in the area will perform Appalachian Mountain, bluegrass and southern gospel music during this series which runs June through mid-November. "Pass-the-hat" donations to the musicians are welcome. $3 parking. (800) 573-9659 ext. 305
Confederate Encampment
Sunday, August 6, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Hart State Park - Hartwell
Watch weaponry, drilling and marching demonstrations, then learn about uniforms, tents and equipment from the Civil War. $3 parking. (706) 376-8756.
Youth Fishing Days
Saturday, August 19, 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Smithgall Woods Conservation Area and Lodge - Helen
Children and their special "big person" can fish in one of two ponds, stocked with catfish, bass, and bream. Fish caught in the ponds can be kept and staff are available to assist. Bring your own bait for the rods we provide. Use the Hwy. 75 entrance to the park. $3 parking. (706) 878-3087.
Flintknapping
Saturday, August 26, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site - Cartersville
Flintknapping is the making of projectile points from different types of stone. Come see demonstrations of this ancient art. $2.50-$4. (770) 387-3747.
METRO ATLANTA
Party with the 'Possums Night Hike
Friday, August 4, 11, 18 and 25, 8 - 9: 30 p.m.
Red Top Mountain State Park and Lodge - Cartersville
This Friday evening series highlights the park's nightlife during a 1.5-hour hike that's suitable for all ages. Bring a flashlight but no pets. Meet in the Visitor Center parking lot just before dark. $3 parking. (770) 975-4226.
"Ruins and Rapids" Full Moon Hike
Wednesday, August 9, 9 - 11 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs
This two-mile guided hike is rated "moderate" and follows the lovely rapids of Sweetwater Creek (up to class IV) to the Civil War-era textile mill ruins of New Manchester. Hikes will continue if it is overcast but will be cancelled if it is raining. Bring a flashlight and sturdy shoes. No children under 6 or dogs. $1-$2 plus $3 parking. (770) 732-5871.
Reptiles Alive
Saturday, August 26, 2 - 4 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park - Stockbridge
Teaching Youth To Observe (TYTO) will lead this reptile program featuring live snakes, lizards, turtles and an alligator. Register in advance. $3 parking. (770) 389-7801.
MIDDLE AND SOUTH GEORGIA
Canoe Clinic
Saturday, August 12, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
F.D. Roosevelt State Park - Pine Mountain
This clinic is designed as an introductory experience for the novice canoer. Participants should bring plenty of water, lunch, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing and footwear. Maximum 16 participants, ages 10 and up. An adult must accompany children. Register in advance. $20 or $15 if you supply your own equipment. $3 parking. (706) 663-4858.
Pine Mountain Trail Hike
Saturday, August 12, 10 a.m.
F.D. Roosevelt State Park - Pine Mountain
Join a member of the Pine Mountain Trail Association at the Dowdell Knob Parking Lot for a guided hike on the Pine Mountain Trail. www.pinemountaintrail.org $3 parking. (706) 663-4858.
An Evening of Astronomy
Saturday, August 12, 8:30 p.m.
F.D. Roosevelt State Park - Pine Mountain
Constellations and planets have been an important part of society and folklore since humans lived in caves. Join interpretive rangers at the Park Office Amphitheater for star talks, star maps and viewing of the night sky. $3 parking. (706) 663-4858.
Georgia Veterans Memorial Triathlon
Saturday, August 19, 7 - 9:30 a.m.
Georgia Veterans State Park - Cordele
This challenging event includes a half-mile swim in Lake Blackshear, a 13.6-mile bike race and a 3.1-mile run. Registration fee. $3 parking. (229) 273-1668.
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