F. D. Roosevelt State Park
Covering more than 9,000 acres, F.D. Roosevelt State Park is the largest state park in Georgia. Billed as a haven for hikers and backpackers, this beautiful nature preserve has mile after mile of trail to explore and plenty of spectacular scenery. The best part of all, however, is that you can experience it with your dog by your side.
Dogs are more than welcome in Georgia state parks and campgrounds, provided they're kept on a leash (maximum length of six feet) and under your control at all times. You're also responsible for cleaning up after your furry friend.
If you follow the rules and respect the rights of other campers and park users, you and your dog will have a grrr-eat time in this huge park. Set in rolling mountains just 80 miles southeast of Atlanta, F.D. Roosevelt State Park boasts around 40 miles of hiking trails. There are short day hikes and longer adventures to enjoy, including the well-known Pine Mountain Trail.
If you prefer to take things a little easier, the park is also home to two lakes — 15-acre Lake Delanor and 25-acre Lake Franklin. Fishing, boating, and swimming are all popular pastimes, while the Liberty Bell Swimming Pool is also open seasonally.
A Georgian gem, this beautiful state park gets its name from the fact that back in 1921, FDR came to this part of Georgia to swim in warm springs and gain relief from polio. He reportedly used to picnic and ponder important world issues at Dowdell's Knob, which overlooks King's Gap, and these days, visitors to the site are greeted by a life-size sculpture of the iconic president.
If you're looking to stay the night, F.D. Roosevelt State Park boasts 22 cottages and more than 100 campsites. A few cottages and many campsites are pet-friendly, so bring your pooch along to explore this lovely part of the world with you.
