Elijah Clark State Park

Who needs the ocean when you have a giant lake to enjoy? Campers at Elijah Clark State Park can see for themselves just how much water they can explore at Clarks Hill Lake -- a body of water that boasts some 71,000 acres of volume! The park, named after one of Georgia's war heroes, is open all year round, so you can visit any time.

Once here, you'll have access to 176 campsites, some of which offer electric hookups. Ten of these are held for tent-only walk-ins and one is a pioneer-style lot. If you'd like to take the fuss out of staying in nature, you can reserve one of the 20 cottages at the park -- a few of which are doggo-friendly! The campsites each come with a campfire ring and a picnic table, regardless of what hookup option you have chosen. 

A ParkPass permit is required to enter the facility and costs $5. Nightly fees for sites start at $20 and go all the way up to $45 for pioneer camping. Cottages cost between $150 and $225 per night, and the picnic structures may be reserved for day use as well.

Activities at Elijah Clark State Park include taking it easy at the beach or heading into the water for a dip when the days get too hot. Canoe rentals are available here and boating out on the lake is allowed, so you can get out on the water as well as in it. If you'd rather explore the forest, you can take your pooch on one of the many hiking trails -- or even test your skills geocaching! For any history buffs out there, be sure to check out the replication of Elijah Clark's home, or pay your respects at the graves of him and his wife.

Four-legged campers are welcome to camp along with their owners as long as they stay leashed through their visit. Remember to always clean up after your doggo and to refrain from taking them into buildings or designated swimming areas.

If you'd like to experience Clarks Hill Lake with your family, Elijah Clark State Park is the place to do it!