1. Enjoy  the beauty of the season at  Radium Springs Gardens, one of Georgia’s Seven Natural Wonders. This unique garden pumps 70,000 gallons per minute of clear, 68-degree water from an underground cave. Take in the natural beauty as you walk through a courtyard where the former Radium Springs Casino once stood, admire foliage-draped hillocks, crystal clear waters and flora which are both indigenous and exotic. The park also features a restored terrace, new sidewalks, a casino garden and gazebos. Added bonus: Radium Springs Gardens is pet friendly and offers free admission.
2. Explore the area’s walking trails and enjoy the great outdoors at your own pace. Take an early morning or evening walk along Riverfront Park , a six-acre park spread out along the Flint River featuring the Greenways Trail System with a three mile Riverwalk. Visitors will love the park’s wide-open spaces perfect for family picnics and gatherings, music and light-animated play fountain and pavilion areas.
3. Check out Chehaw Park and Zoo, a 700-acre facility where 234 specimens representing more than 73 different species make their home. Outdoor, natural exhibits house exciting animals such as cheetahs, black rhinoceros’, black bears, alligators and more. Children and adults alike will love this. A slow-paced stroll across boardwalks leads visitors to the park and a beautiful look at the cypress swamp.
4. Looking to hit the trails on bike? Take in the area’s scenery on two wheels by exploring a variety of bike trails. Check out Chehaw Park’s mountain bike trails featuring miles of groomed single-track trail that runs along the wooded terrain near the creek. Access to trails is Included with Park admission.
5. Cool off by floating the Flint River by kayak or canoe. Visitors enjoy easy access points at the Georgia Power Dam, Riverfront Park Launch, Ray Charles Plaza Launch or the Marine Landing input areas. Kayak Attack Adventures has everything you need for a day on the water. Offering kayak and canoe rentals, along with an array of services from simple pick-ups and drop offs along local creeks and rivers to guided tours, private lessons and a ton of adventure, this is your one stop shop!
6. Nearby on the banks of the Flint River, be sure to stop by and have a seat on a piano key bench at the Ray Charles Plaza. The rotating, life-size bronze sculpture of one of the most influential singer-songwriters in American history sits at a baby Grand piano, while his most famous tunes–including the state’s official song, “Georgia on My Mind” plays continuous concerts. It’s a fitting tribute to the legend who was born here in 1930. This is a great spot to snap a selfie!
7. Looking for a great indoor activity? All American Fun Park has you covered! This family friendly establishment offers activities galore. With two miniature golf courses, a 1/4-mile go-kart track, sixteen bowling lanes and more, there’s endless fun to be had here.  This makes for a great rainy-day activity, too.
8. Nothing says summer like a nice, cold sweet treat! Stop in Cool Scoops  located in downtown Albany and treat yourself to an ultimate ice cream experience. Feeling frozen yogurt? Check out Freeze Frozen Yogurt for a colorful, frozen yogurt concoction of your dreams.

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From toddlers to teens, there are so many options to keep kiddos engaged this summer—no matter their age! Here’s a roundup of what’s in store.

DoubleGate Day Camp: This camp offers swimming, tennis, golf, games and lots of fun! This day camp offers four sessions in June. Click here for more information.

Starstuck Summer Camp: Taking place at The Clay Spot, this arts and crafts camp will have your pre-teens and teens exploring their creative side. Campers will make giant friendship bracelet garlands, disco tile picture frames and more. Available to kids ages 11 and up.

Magic Kingdom Summer Camp: The Clay Spot invites campers to discover the magic of art with Disney inspired crafts including mouse ear making, Mickey notebooks, Mickey ceramics and more. Available for ages 7-10.

Mixed Media Summer Camp: Campers will discover their creativity through different mediums and techniques at The Clay Spot’s Mixed Media Summer Camp. Two camps available, one for ages 7-10 and another for ages 11 and up.

Crafty Girl Summer Camp: Cottage core and coquette-style girlies, this camp is for you! Get crafty with taper candle painting, pipe cleaner botanical art, jewelry making and more! Available at The Clay Spot for girls ages 11 and up.  

Sugar Mama’s Summer Camp: Explore the world of baking at Sugar Mama’s Bakery this summer. From baking and decorating to trivia and more, this camp is sure to be sweet.

SOWEGANS Soccer Camp: Calling all soccer lovers! The kids will love the opportunity to train with Coach Jared Beauchamp and the players of SWEGANS, southwest Georgia’s premier soccer team! All skill levels are welcome and open to boys and girls ages 7-16.

Chehaw Park and Zoo offers several camps throughout the summer. These camps include daily trips to the zoo, animal encounters, crafts, games, activities, snacks and more! Take a deep dive into learning about nature, animals, habitats and more at these entertaining, educational and immersive summer camps.

Here’s a look at themed summer camps offered at Chehaw Park and Zoo:

• Enchanted Forest Summer Camp
• Birds of a Feather Summer Camp
• Locomotion Commotion Summer Camp
• Sink or Swim Summer Camp and Canoe Trip
• Horton Hears a Zoo Summer Camp
• Grossology Camp

Have kiddos that want to explore their creative side? Let their creative juices flow at the Albany Museum of Art. AMA gives kids the creative outlet they need this summer in Albany, Georgia. From culinary arts and fashion arts to unique adventures brimming with imaginative activities designed for specific age groups, there’s truly something for everyone.

Here’s a look at some of the summer camps offered at Albany Museum of Art:

• Arts and Sciences Camps
• Littles Camp 1
• Littles Camp 2
• Littles Camp 3
• Young Artrepreneurs Camp K-5th
• Culinary Arts Camp K-5th
• Fairytale and Folklore Camp K-5th
• Superheroes and Villains Camp K-5th
• Culinary Arts Camp for Middle and High School
• Textiles Camp for Middle and High School
• Artrepreneurs Camp for Middle and High School
• Multimedia Camp for Middle and High School
• Drawing Graphic Novels Camp for Middle and High School

There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Albany, Georgia this summer! For more on these summer camps, events and things to see and do in Albany, click here.

The post Summer Fun with Camps that Wow in Albany, Georgia appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

Here are just a few Blue Ridge activities that bring families closer together and, in the process, create lifetime memories. It will truly be a summer to remember. 

Live on Mountain Time

Pick the perfect place to stay, from lodging with stunning mountain views, creekside retreats, riverfront lodges, cabins on the lake and much more. The mountains are relaxing, and so are the amenities at cabin rentals for families, reunions, BFF weekends and solo retreats. Enjoy coffee on the porch breathing fresh mountain air and nights cooking s’mores around the fire, stargazing and chasing fireflies. Campers can choose among 15 RV and camp sites, from waterside to mountainside, luxury to roughing it. For those with furry companions, see the guide to Blue Ridge with Pets.

Cool off

Escape to mountain lakes and streams just outside of town. Enjoy water sports, boat rentals, marina and a beach on Lake Blue Ridge, located The Toccoa River offers different trips for tubing, a two-hour float for little ones who might get restless and a four-hour float for those wanting more relaxation. Whitewater rafting is available on the Oconee and Toccoa, all the way to Lake Blue Ridge. For an easy walk to the Toccoa, hike to the 270-foot-long pedestrian bridge, the longest swinging bridge east of the Mississippi River. Hikes to five refreshing waterfalls range from just .1 mile to 9.5 miles. Use this map and reference this comprehensive list of outfitters located throughout the area.

Track the trout

Fannin County is the Trout Capital of Georgia, with more than 100 miles of well-stocked trout fishing rivers, creeks and streams. Pick up the free Georgia Guide to Trout Fishing at the Visitor Center, for seasons, creel limits and size restrictions. Or work with one of 15+ fishing and outdoor guides to find the perfect spots. One artisan and fly-fishing aficionado has taken the art form of the fly rod to its ultimate expression. William “Bill” Oyster at Oyster Fine Bamboo Fly Rods in downtown Blue Ridge creates handcrafted fly rods and teaches classes. 

Retro movies

Take a trip back in time, load up the car and catch a movie at The Swan Drive-In, one of only four remaining drive-ins in Georgia. Hungry? Order from your car and sample some of Swan’s delectable snacks and dinners, from the popular Pub Steakburger to fried Oreos and funnel cakes, candy and popcorn. 651 Summit Street Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513; 706-632-5235

Pick some produce

Another memory-maker and long-standing tradition in Blue Ridge is Mercier Orchards. Bill and Adele Mercier opened in 1943 and now offer dozens of varieties of apples, strawberries, fresh-pressed cider, the most delectable fruit pies and more. Tour the farm, pick your own seasonal fruits, or buy fruit, vegetables and baked goods for your stay. Visit the tasting room and sample Georgia’s first hard cider and fruity wines like strawberry, blueberry, blackberry and apple. 8660 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, 30513; 706-632-3411  

Pick up a picnic

With such gorgeous mountain views, rivers and woods, a picnic is a must, and here are five idyllic spots. Take your favorite produce and baked goods from Mercier Orchards or visit a local winery for a tasty Georgia wine. Pick up picnic favorites such as specialty cheeses at Out of the Blue, delicious and unique snacks from Chester’s Provisions or a charcuterie board from the Pasta Market, all in downtown Blue Ridge.

Take a hike 

Today, 40 percent of the area surrounding Blue Ridge is protected land including the Chattahoochee National Forest. Hundreds of miles of hiking trails can be found in these mountains, some along rivers, some with waterfalls and many easy treks that are perfect for families with young children. Trek across the 270-foot-long Toccoa River Swinging Bridge, the longest east of the Mississippi. Hikes to five refreshing waterfalls range from just .1 mile to 9.5 miles. Two bucket-list hiking adventures, the Appalachian Trail and the Benton MacKaye Trail begin in southern Fannin County at Springer Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest. 

Find the wildflowers 

The mountain woods celebrate spring and summer with a burst of wildflower color. April through May brings 10 types, including Lady’s Slipper, Mountain Laurel and Trillium. 

May through June is Flame Azalea and Rhododendron season, when walls of colorful blooms can be seen almost everywhere you look. Look but don’t touch! Digging up wildflowers, picking them or collecting seeds is illegal for good reason. Multiply your little bouquet times even a handful of visitors on a weekly basis, and they can be gone forever. Human activity harms their ability to reproduce, and most wildflowers do not survive being transplanted. For details, go to https://www.blueridgemountains.com/blog/when-do-the-wildflowers-bloom/

Ride the rails

Climb aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, where vintage climate-controlled and open-air rail cars (including a handicapped accessible coach) take passengers on a winding ride alongside the Toccoa River, with a stop in the intriguing twin border towns of McCaysville, Georgia and Copperhill, Tennessee. Depending on the schedule, visitors have a layover with plenty of time to have lunch, shop for unique crafts and antiques or snack on ice cream and other treats. The Riverwalk Shops offers riverfront restaurants and boutique shopping. Stand in both states at one time at the Blue Line, which marks the spot where Georgia ends, and Tennessee begins. Use a walking map to help you discover these quaint mountain towns.

The newest rail ride is aboard a custom-built, four-person electric Railbike. It’s a leisurely, motor-assisted pedal from the depot in historic downtown Blue Ridge on an 11-mile round-trip adventure meandering alongside streams, vineyards. Halfway through, there’s a pause for photography. 

Soothe your soul

Have a spa day, whether enjoying a couples’ massage, Zen floating or a softly-illuminated Himalayan salt cave at Serenity in the Mountains. Ever wish you didn’t have to get up and go after a body treatment? Adjacent to the spa are luxury cabin-style accommodations with a king-size bed, fireplace, Jacuzzi tubs, full kitchens and oversized tile showers. Explore 15 centers for beauty, fitness and wellness, including day spas, salons, Crossfit, yoga, herbal therapy and more, and visit the blog for inspiration.

The post Summer Memories are Forever in Blue Ridge, Georgia appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

ALBANY, GEORGIA—MAY 2023—Summer is upon us and there’s no better way to celebrate a sizzling season than with Albany, Georgia’s “Splash into Summer” giveaway. From June through August, enjoy this family- and budget-friendly summer promotion to receive free admission to Albany’s attractions when booking a stay at one of Albany’s participating hotels. Located about an hour off I-10 and only 30 minutes from I-75, Albany is an ideal resting place or stopping point when en route to/from Savannah and Charleston or Florida.

Visitors can book a weekend night stay through the “Splash into Summer” website to automatically receive a family pack of four tickets to all of Albany’s featured attractions including Albany Civil Rights Institute, Chehaw Park and Zoo and Flint RiverQuarium. The package also includes $10 off a kayaking rental with Kayak Attack, a buy one, get one bike rental at the Welcome Center and a Visit Albany cooler filled with all coupons, tickets and special offers. The Family Pack of tickets and cooler bags will be provided at check-in. Year-round, visitors can also enjoy complimentary admission to Thronateeska Heritage Center and the Albany Museum of Art. Explore the secrets of the Flint River ecosystem, and learn about the Albany Civil Rights Movement, take a walk through nature and more. 

Chehaw Park offers a 100-acre zoo featuring over 200 animals including cheetahs, black rhinoceroses, alligators and many more. Patrons can take advantage of the BMX track, R/C car track and 18-hole disc golf course.

The Flint RiverQuarium is a phenomenal adventure following the river’s incredible 350-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. The 175,000-gallon Blue Hole is one of only a few open-air aquariums across the globe, featuring more than 100 species of fish, alligators, turtles and other marine life. Don’t miss the Cypress Pond Aviary where more than 30 indigenous (to Flint River watershed) birds make their home. Look for special events like dive shows and alligator feedings for over-the-top excitement.

Kayak Attack Adventures is a one-stop shop for all kayaking needs. Offering kayak and canoe rentals, with an array of services from simple pick-ups and drop-offs along local creeks and rivers to guided tours, private lessons and a ton of adventure, this shop has everything visitors need to get out on the water. Wind down the Kinchafoonee Creek, Muckalee Creek and the Flint River and get up close and personal with waterfalls, caves and secluded parts of the creeks. Kayak Attack Adventures, Flint River and Kinchafoonee Creek, Albany, Georgia, 31763; 229-669-1259

To claim a free family pack of tickets, book a hotel stay by clicking on the hotel links listed below:

Participating hotels include:

Baymont Inn – Book Now

Country Inn – Book Now

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Albany – Book Now

Merry Acres – Book Now

Park Inn – Book Now

TownePlace Suites – Book Now

Quality Inn – Book Now

Motel 6 – Book Now

For more information on the campaign and our attractions, call 229-317-4760.

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ALPINE HELEN-WHITE COUNTY, GEORGIA–MAY 2022–Looking for a destination that’s as much fun for pets as it is for people? An hour and a half north of Atlanta in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Bavarian town of Alpine Helen and White County provides all the amenities for fur-kids and their families. From luxury and budget-friendly accommodations to outdoor dining, trails, bark parks and grooming, every dog will enjoy its day (and night) along with its humans.

Lodging

Pups love properties that offer room for roaming and exploring the riverbank, like Riverbend Motel and Cabins and the Helendorf River Inn. Biscuit Inn is a small motel just four miles north of town that caters to cats and canines on 1.5 acres. Choose from four themed rooms with microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker and a small porch; all include a bone shaped pet bed and a bag of “gourmutt” treats. Satellite TV but no phones and no internet means a true vacation for fur-families (two-night minimum stay, 3573 Highway 356, Sautee, Georgia 30571;

706-892-9837). Also on the budget-friendly, pet friendly list are brands such as Amerivu Inn and Suites and Quality Inn. Red Roof Inn Helen, a mile from downtown and within walking distance of shops and restaurants, where large dogs are welcome, with no pet fee. Newly-renovated rooms, a pool and a fenced-in dog park with water and a waste station add to the appeal. Rates start at $64 per night (78171 South Main Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-8888).

On the luxury end, Valhalla Resort Hotel and Solasta Spa has stunning views of the North Georgia mountains, three fine and casual dining choices and a rooftop sky bar. It’s a relaxing retreat perfect for hiking, wine tasting, golfing and spa services. Furry guests are provided with a doggie bowl, treats and waste pick-up bags, and can visit the patio dining and outside sky bar (688 Bahn Innsbruck Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-2200).

Cabins are another great choice for larger families with pets. Check out Adventure Lodge-Unicoi State Park for rustic, modern cabins with great views, outdoor amenities like ziplining and nature programs and close proximity to popular Anna Ruby Falls. A wide range of cabin styles and settings can be found via Bear Creek Lodge & Cabins, Cabin Rentals of Helen, Georgia Mountain Rentals and many other rental services. Check here for a full listing of pet-friendly properties, or call or visit the Alpine Helen-White County website. 

Roaming and river fun

One of Helen’s most iconic experiences is floating the Chattahoochee River, and dogs can join the fun with Cool River Tubing. Lap-sized dogs can ride with their humans, and for no extra charge larger dogs can enjoy their own personal tube (706-878-9471). If Fido needs a fluff-up after a river run, The Barking Lot offers professional grooming, as well as boarding during the times pets are unable to accompany their people (5 East Jarrard Street, Cleveland, Georgia; 706- 865-3647). 

Back on land, leashed dogs are welcome on carriage rides through Helen. Pegasus Horse Drawn Carriages drivers even have canine co-pilots. Afterward, head to Steve’s Old Time Photo at 8600 Main Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-7048) for a family photo–with costumes. Pet-friendly shopping can be found at Reflections Mall of Cleveland, Ga., Mt Yonah Book Exchange and The Artisans Market. 

Dining with dog

Helen is an outdoor dining mecca, and pooches are welcome on patios and decks all over town. Have a dog with your dog at Chattahoochee Dog Haus, where they serve beef, turkey and vegetarian specialty dogs, corn dogs, Chicago dogs and German dogs, along with sandwiches and beer. This deck-only dining establishment serves lunch and dinner (8016 South Main Street Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-969-8912). At Hofbräuhaus Restaurant pets enjoy a free bratwurst while you dine riverside at picnic tables and savor traditional German dishes and beers (9001 North Main Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-2248). Hofer’s Bakery & Café is another great choice for German-inspired pastries and dishes like Hähnchen Schnitzel and Hungarian Goulasch (8758 North Main Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-8200). Overlooking the river and offering a wide menu (hamburgers, salads, humus, seafood and more), Café International is right on Main Street’s entertainment center (8546 South Main Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-3102). Cimmi’s Café is a local favorite breakfast spot for hearty portions of Southern comfort foods (8797 Main Street North, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-6037). For a full listing of local pet-friendly restaurants, visit the Alpine Helen-White County website. 

As noted, pets are allowed at establishments with outside or patio service, which includes wineries and breweries. In nearby Cleveland, NoFo Cleveland offers sour ales, pales ales, saison and Berlineer Weisse (1939 Helen Highway, Cleveland, Georgia 30528; 706-809-2888). JumpinGoat Coffee Roasters & Tasting Room Cleveland has a full espresso bar, wine and mead tastings, or by the glass or bottle, craft beer and baked goods. Sitting on a large property at the base of Mt. Yonah, spectacular views and a dog park are part of the experience. 

Trails and tails

Of course, most of the hiking trails and state parks all around Helen and White County welcome dogs (or cats) on leashes, including the Helen to Hardman Heritage Trail starting right in town. It’s a one-mile ADA accessible trail following the Chattahoochee River to Hardman Farm State Historic Site. Bring your pet along for this easy walk, including scenic stops and a little exercise at your own pace. Smithgall Woods State Park is another Helen retreat for hikers, anglers, picnickers and waterfall-chasers. For a more active hike, Unicoi State Park is within the Chattahoochee National Forest and offers beautiful trails leading to popular attraction points such as Anna Ruby Falls where you’ll hear the thundering rush of the double waterfalls well before you see them. Raven Cliff Falls Trail offers more challenging terrain featuring a lovely stream, waterfalls and amazing views. Just remember that Fluffy wants her owners to leave no trace, and that includes picking up after pets.

Upcoming Dog-friendly Event

49th Annual Helen to the Atlantic Balloon Race and Festival 

June 2: 7:00 a.m.- 6:30 p.m. 

Helendorf River Inn and Conference Center

33 Munich Strasse Helen, Georgia 30545

706-878-2271

The South’s oldest balloon event and the United States’ only long-distance hot air balloon race begins (weather permitting) with about 20 hot air balloons in a colorful mass ascension in North Georgia’s Alpine Village–Helen. Race competitors and local flyers will take to the sky at 7 a.m. Thursday, June 2, 2022. While the competition to the Atlantic continues, other balloonists compete in local events beginning Thursday evening around 6:00 pm. Local flying events will take place also on Friday and Saturday. The balloons will fly around 7:30 am and 6:00 pm each day (weather permitting). 

For more on where to stay, eat, and experience the charm of Bavaria in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, visit: www.HelenGA.org

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Looking for a summer adventure to remember? Look no further than Blue Ridge, Georgia. Just 90-minutes north of Atlanta and right off of I-575, Blue Ridge is packed with outdoor excursions that are perfect for families to unplug, connect with nature and create the kind of memories summers are made of.

Day 1

Day:
Head straight to one of the rivers that flow through Georgia’s favorite mountain town. If the family is full of thrill-seekers, journey to Ocoee River where the waters come alive in the warmer months. Rapid lovers travel from far and wide to paddle these white waters. Choose a local guide company to help you steer the wild currents aboard a raft. If you have little ones in your crew, or if you just prefer to ease into summer vacation, set sights on the Toccoa River. Take your time with a leisurely float down the tree-studded waters by tube, kayak, canoe or stand up paddle board. For information on Ocoee and Toccoa River rentals, visit: http://www.BlueRidgeMountains.com/rafting_tubing_kayaking.html 

Evening:
Check into one of the many cabins that dot the mountainous landscape. Whether looking for upscale chic or laid back and cozy, there is a cabin to fulfill every family’s desire. Cabins are located high above the gorgeous green landscape and alongside the rivers and Lake Blue Ridge. With so many options, families can rest easy knowing their perfect home away from home awaits in Blue Ridge. There are more than 30 cabin rental companies choose from; book a cabin by visiting:   https://www.blueridgemountains.com/where-to-stay/cabins-rentals/

Day 2

Day:
After a restful night’s sleep in a cabin retreat, head to Lake Blue Ridge. This picturesque mountain lake has 3,290 acres of gemstone waters and 65 miles of shoreline, 80 percent of which belongs to the Chattahoochee National Forest.

Drive to Lake Blue Ridge Marina. Here, you will find the ideal vessel to rent and explore the mountain-reflecting waters. Fit up to eight people in a pontoon boat and feel the wind blow through your hair while boating by the stunning shoreline. Rent a couple of tubes to tow the kids on a spin they won’t soon forget. Or, take it slow with a kayak or paddle board rental.

Evening:
A day in the sun is sure to work up an appetite for all. Treat taste buds to lunch or dinner on the lake at the Boat Dock Bar and Grill. Enjoy scrumptious waterfront favorites like loaded nachos, juicy cheeseburgers and shrimp tacos. Adults can wash it down with libations from the extensive beer, wine and fruity cocktail list.  For Lake Blue Ridge Marina information, visit: LakeBlueRidgeMarina.com 

Day 3

Day:
Stretch the sea legs with an invigorating hike. The hiking trails of Fannin County include some of the most notable in the United States. Two of the greatest outdoor adventures in the world, the Appalachian Trail and the Benton MacKaye Trail, begin in Fannin County at the top of Springer Mountain. Families can select trails that range from easy to moderate to difficult to find the right hike for the whole crew. For waterfall-seekers, local trail favorites include Fall Branch Falls, Long Creek Falls and Amicalola Falls. For a waterfall and trail guide, visit: blueridgemountains.com/things-to-do/outdoors/hiking/

Evening:
After resting up from the rewarding hike, head to downtown Blue Ridge for a night on the town, known as the “Culinary Capital of the Mountains.” Explore dozens of family-friendly restaurants. From local trout and barbecue to fried apple pies and biscuits and gravy, the Blue Ridge culinary scene has so much to offer. Cucinella’s Pizzeria, a family tradition since 1932, offers traditional and specialty pizzas along with other Italian favorites and temptations like Cinnamon Knots. Nearby in McCaysville, Burra Burra on the River serves classic American food, beer and wine with the option to dine al fresco on the river. For a full list of where to eat, click here. 

Day 4

Day:
Get ready for an all-day lake adventure at Morganton Point Recreation Area. For only $5 per vehicle, families get access to everything they need for an entire day of outdoor fun. Bring a lawn chair and dig toes in the sand of this beautiful beach. Rent fishing poles and buy bait to reel one in. Lake Blue Ridge is filled with bluegill, largemouth bass, white bass, smallmouth bass, walleye and even the occasional rainbow trout or yellow perch.

After all that work finding the perfect catch, rent floats and relax in the secluded aquamarine waters. Feeling hungry? Hit up the snack stand to buy drinks, chips and ice cream bars.

Evening:
Rent a kayak for a sunset paddle. Enjoy the grandiose mountain views as pink skies reflect off still waters. Head for dry land and enjoy a late afternoon hike on one of many tree-laden trails the area offers. Pack a picnic and savor dinner alfresco as the sun sets behind the mountaintops. Looking to spend a night under the stars? Morganton Point also offers 40 campsites. For more on Morganton Point, visit: https://gofindoutdoors.org/morganton-point/

Independence Day Celebrations:

Want to celebrate our country’s freedom with a bang? With multiple family-fun events, Blue Ridge is the ideal place for July 4th festivities.

July 3–Firecracker Special Train Ride
All aboard! Head to the Blue Ridge Depot for the McCaysville Fireworks. Ride the Firecracker Special to McCaysville to watch the pyrotechnic show, with no need to worry about where to park. Watch the fireworks from the comfort of your seat on the train or absorb the excitement around you by hanging out downtown. The train begins boarding at 7 p.m. and departs at 7:30 p.m. for a ride along the Toccoa River to McCaysville for the fireworks. Reservations are strongly suggested.

July 4–Fireworks at Lake Blue Ridge
Be dazzled by one of the Peach State’s finest fireworks displays on Lake Blue Ridge. Grab a picnic blanket or watch by boat. Lake Blue Ridge Marina hosts the spectacular display. The family can also enjoy the show from the top of the Dam and from Morganton Point Recreation Area.

For more on July 4th events, check out the community calendar:https://www.blueridgemountains.com/events/

With a summer vacation to Blue Ridge, Georgia, families will leave feeling connected, refreshed and fulfilled after days of both adventure and relaxation. This outdoorsy escape is complete with uptown attractions that will have families making Blue Ridge their annual summer vacation destination.

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