South Georgia Roadtrips
Southeast Georgia is known for historic small towns, state parks, scenic rivers, barrier islands, and of course, North America’s largest “black water” swamp, the Okefenokee.
Thomasville
Along the borders with Florida and Alabama there are a number of small towns, such as Thomasville, Georgia’s Rose City. Peruse shops and restaurants along downtown’s historic brick streets and find historical homes and museums tucked around every corner. Take a tour at the Jack Hadley Black History Museum, get a selfie with The Big Oak, and do not miss the Sweetgrass Dairy and Cheese Shop. Chances are pretty good you have seen Sweetgrass Cheese on menus throughout Georgia, so make sure to stop in and see where this Georgia product comes from.
Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Located in McIntosh County, the Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge is the inland base for two neighboring barrier island natural refuges, Blackbeard Island and Wolf Island refuges, both located southeast of Harris Neck. Over 15 miles of paved roads and trails provide easy access to the many different habitats of the 2,762-acre site. Harris Neck is one of 18 sites forming the Colonial Coast Birding Trail with habitats including a mix of saltwater marshes, grassland and woods, that attract a diversity of bird species.
The Okefenokee
The Okefenokee opened its doors officially on October 8, 1946. Nearly a quarter of a million dollars was poured into the almost half of million acres creating a very unique community project, which the Okefenokee Swamp National Wildlife Refuge calls “the most unique community project on record.”
The Okefenokee Swamp is a vast wilderness, home to a variety of wildlife and is a true wildlife refuge. The wildlife seen in the swamp are seen their natural habitats and all inhabitants are protected by law. There are three entrances and many ways to explore this unique ecosystem, including guided boat tours, kayaking, cultural sites, hiking trails and camping adventures.
The Golden Isles
Between Savannah and Jacksonville, lies the mainland city of Brunswick and its four barrier islands, St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. This area is known as the Golden Isles. Tidal marshland, punctuated by small islands known as hammocks, define the landscape.
The Golden Isles of Georgia are brimming with activities. Go in-shore or deep sea fishing, discover archaeological remnants of shell rings dating back to 2500 BCE, golf, go shopping or eat your way through the area — don’t miss Southern Soul Barbecue. Or, simply get lost in the beauty of the sunrises and while relaxing on miles of beaches.
Some of the best-kept secrets and hidden gems of Georgia can be found in small towns, and even native Georgians don’t know about them. Get on the road and expand your understanding of Georgia, and have a blast while you do it.
