Swimming in Georgia State Parks

Welcome to Idlewilde Event Center at Indian Springs State Park

Conveniently located near I-75 in middle Georgia, Indian Springs is one of the oldest state parks in the United States and a popular spot for outdoor recreation.

Idlewilde Event Center at Indian Springs State Park is available for reservations. The name is derived from the majestic house on the property that serves as the park office and visitor center; and is on the National Historic Register. With another nod to past, the individual rooms in the center are even named after the historic hotels that once thrived in the village of Indian Springs. Idlewilde has 20,000 square feet of event space including a massive lake side porch with beautiful views of the water. With a capacity of 500 people, Idlewilde can accommodate a variety of events, from birthday parties and family reunions, to weddings and corporate retreats. Additional features include a catering kitchen and audio visual capabilities in every room.

For inquiries or to join the Idlewilde Event Center waiting list, please contact us on 470-707-8071.

Operated by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources

Available event hours: 8:00AM – 10:00PM

Total footprint 19,557 square feet

Opened September 2018

Swimming in Georgia State Parks

Don Carter State Park

Whether you prefer swimming in lakes or a pool, your family will take to Georgia State Parks like fish to water.

Lakeside Beaches

For just a $5 parking fee, you can enjoy cooling off and picnicking all day at our sandy swimming beaches. For safety reasons, swimmers should always stay in roped-off areas. Or better yet, spend the night and enjoy a few days at the water’s edge. Check ahead for hours and seasonality.

Parks that have a beach include: Don Carter, Elijah Clark, Fort Mountain, Fort Yargo, George T. Bagby, Georgia Veterans, Hard Labor Creek, Kolomoki Mounds, Laura S. Walker, Mistletoe, Red Top Mountain, Reed Bingham, Reynolds Mansion, Richard B. Russell, Seminole, Tallulah Gorge, Tugaloo, Unicoi, Vogel.

Pools

If swimming pools are more your style, take a dip at F.D. Roosevelt, Little Ocmulgee or Victoria Bryant state parks. Lifeguards are not guaranteed but are sometimes provided and a fee is charged. Be sure to call ahead about hours of operation.

Splash Pads (Spraygrounds)

For non-swimmers, Magnolia Springs, Little Ocmulgee and Jack Hill state parks offer “splash pads” perfect for toddlers.

"Sliding Rocks"

Many visitors to Watson Mill Bridge and Tallulah Gorge enjoy playing on their rivers' "sliding rocks." At Tallulah Gorge, you'll need a free permit. The number is limited and often runs out early in the day.