George L. Smith State Park

If you’re looking for a quiet, fur-friendly outdoor getaway in southern Georgia, you’d be barking mad not to consider camping at George L. Smith State Park! The park offers entertainment for hound-dog history buffs and outdoorsy pooches alike, and you won’t need to sacrifice too many of your creature comforts during your stay. The park offers showers and laundry services, and some sites have electricity hookups to boot. Unfortunately, though, you won’t find any water or sewer hookups for your RV.

The campground is also in a seriously pretty spot. Perched on the shores of the lake and surrounded by tall cypress trees, you’re also likely to see wildlife wandering through camp. You might wake up to find a heron looking curiously at your tent, or a tortoise meandering along past your grill. Be sure not to trip over Georgia’s national reptile.

Not only that, but George L. Smith State Park provides plenty of ways to stay. If you’d like to save a few bucks, you can forgo the electricity and stay at a primitive site for only $8. Or if you’d prefer, you can camp out in a restored pioneer shelter for $50. A cottage will set you back $175, but your pupper will have to stay at home. There are also gazebos and picnic shelters available for day rental. Parking is $5.

You and your buddy are sure to sniff out something to do at this pawesome park! Cultured canines might get a kick out of learning about Georgia’s pioneer history by paying a visit to the lovingly restored Parrish Mill and Pond. Speaking of the pond, it’s well-stocked with all sorts of scaly swimming critters, so keen anglers should feel right at home. Just watch out for the two gators that call the park their home! The Watson Mill dam is also well worth a visit, and the covered bridge is a real mutts-see. The park doesn’t have much to offer serious hound-dog hikers, but the two-and-a-half-mile, tree-lined George L. Smith Loop Trail is still a lovely spot for a short walk.

WiFi isn’t available at George L. Smith, and cellular coverage varies from network to network. Fires are permitted, and you’ll find drinking water available on-site. Remember to bring waste bags for your doggo, and have a furrific time!