Fort Yargo State Park

Looking for a nature escape to get away from the day-to-day grind of city life? Want to experience the best the great outdoors have to offer and do it all with your dog by your side? Fort Yargo State Park in Georgia could be just what you're looking for.

Located between Athens and Atlanta, this popular haunt features a host of great outdoor activities, and pets are welcome to enjoy it with you. You'll need to keep your furry friend on a leash of six feet or less, and make sure to follow all the signposted rules. As always, taking care to clean up after your pet and ensure that they're not a nuisance to other park users is essential.

The park gets its name from a log fort that was built by settlers in 1792 to provide protection against Cree and Cherokee Indians. It's undoubtedly a fascinating little piece of history, but the highlight for many visitors to Fort Yargo State Park is the 260-acre lake. This peaceful body of water features a large swimming beach and excellent opportunities for a spot of fishing.

Away from the water, a 20.5-mile network of trails winds its way through the park. They're popular with hikers and mountain bikers alike, and range from easy half-mile trails to the far more challenging 12-mile Mountain Bike Loop.

There's plenty more to see and do in the park, including a wooded disc golf course, and a whole stack of idyllic spots where you can spread out and enjoy a relaxing picnic. There are a host of accommodation options available, including some pet-friendly cottage and cabin options.

Fort Yargo State Park is well worth a day trip or a longer stay for anyone who wants to get back to nature. Just a 50-mile drive from Atlanta, it's the paw-fect place for you and your dog to escape the city for a little while.