Gordonia-Alatamaha State Park

A true hidden gem. The calmness and peace of the lake create the perfect escape from everyday life. The water is still and soothing, the surroundings are beautifully quiet, and it feels like nature is gently inviting you to slow down and breathe. Whether you’re sitting by the water, or just enjoying the view, there’s a sense of serenity here that refreshes the soul. This park is the perfect place to relax, reflect, and reconnect with nature. Trails are still closed...

A respit for your daily life. Nestled behind the Dairy Queen and past the high school, Jack Hill State Park is just a stones throw from the center of Reidsville. As soon as you drive last the sign your on the wilderness. Past the gate, the playground, the splash pad, the basketball court and the mini golf course, you see a beautiful lake. On the other side is a campground and further on of the golf course. All are open year round, except the splash pad. Definitely not open in the cooler weather and rightly so. I didn't just a couple of days at the campground and I could easily stay another week or two. Quiet, comfortable, and the campsites and amenities are well maintained. I highly recommend Jack Hill if you live in the area for a place to get away. Or if you're traveling, as a quiet home on the road.

Beautiful park with great value entry free was inky $5 per car, which felt very reasonable. Facilities were well maintained and the picnic areas had everything we needed, including electricity, water and clean seating. We enjoyed our time cooking and eating together. The restrooms were clean and the children’s play area was also well kept. The outdoor workout area with exercise equipment was a unique and pleasant surprise. We attempted the 1 mile nature hiking trail, though much of it was still closed due to damage from last year’s Hurricane Helene. Lake allowed us to fish and also to ride boats which we did not do as we were busy on the picnic area. Overall, we had a good experience and would love to visit again.

Lovely State Park. It's a unique setting right in a small town, but still feels like it's out in the Wiregrass forest. The cabins and day use are all well-maintained with a fun mini golf course. Like most all State Parks, it's a hidden gem that's worth stopping in.

What could Jack have done at this State Park!?! On days he wanted to relax, he could sit in a swing and read a book, or grab his binoculars and watch the wildlife. It's so peaceful around the lake. Then, he could take the 1-mile walk on the Swamp Bay Nature Trail, or walk around the beautiful lake and grounds. There are grills all over where he could fix some lunch, or he could check the Office for a snack or something to drink. If the kids come along, there are several playgrounds to work off some energy, while the adults get a workout on the outdoor exercise equipment. Two of the pieces of exercise equipment are wheelchair accessible, not commonly found in parks. At times when he brought his wife and kids, they could all play a round on the 18-hole miniature golf course; or maybe he would play 18 holes at Brazell's Creek Golf Course, or just hit a bucket of balls on the driving range. The occasions when they wanted to stay for a few days, the options start from simple tent campsites, to sites with hookups for a camper or motorhome. Some of the campsite views are extraordinary. My favorite is #24. For a more cushy stay, there are numerous cottages of different sizes that can provide a comfortable and homie atmosphere. When there is a friendly gathering among friends, he could reserve a Shelter, or for a huge family reunion, the Group Shelter is an excellent place to entertain. There is plenty of space and it has a fireplace and restrooms inside. The Group Shelter has a separate building to cook on gas grills. Don't forget to bring your small boat (electric motors only), or rent a boat, kayak or aquacycle at the office to cruise around the 12-acre lake or to do some fishing. You can also rent bicycles. A sign is posted that a new ADA pier will be installed in the near future. Overall, much has been done to accommodate the handicapped, so they can come and enjoy the park, as well. Jack Hill was a lifelong resident of Reidsville and did a lot for his community. Thirty-three of his years were served in the Georgia Air National Guard. He was the longest serving Georgia state senator at the time of his death. He was also responsible for many of the improvements and expansion of this park, and he would be proud that the name was changed after his passing in 2020 to honor his accomplishments. The previous name was Gordonia-Altamaha State Park, for the nearby River and the nearly extinct Gordonia tree that grows here. Stop by the Office and pick up a memento of your visit. There is a nice selection of items for everyone. Lisa was very friendly and provided some good information. (ask her about the special Christmas Tree🎄) For reviews on other parks and many other great places to visit, click on my name and select a topic. thank you! 😀