6 Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day Outdoors
Romantics love Georgia for all of its incredible scenery and the many quiet places, from mountains to the coast, that offer spots to connect with ones they care about most. If you and your special someone are drawn to the outdoors, Georgia has endless places to explore. Here are just a few ways to create classic romance for your outdoorsy Valentine in Georgia.
Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island, Georgia. Photo by @jodyo.photos
Escape to Coastal Georgia
Well-known for romantic inns, delicious cuisine and amazing scenery, Coastal Georgia is an ideal destination for a romantic trip. A stay in Savannah weaves a weekend of nature and nightlife. Farther down the coast, hop on a bike to explore 30 miles of historic sites, ocean views, shopping and eateries on St. Simons Island. And, don't forget one of the most romantic beaches in the world, Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island, known for its picturesque beach vistas.
Riverwalk in Columbus, Georgia
Explore the Chattahoochee River
There's nothing that better represents the timeless nature of love like Georgia's rivers. In Columbus, you can stroll along the river and find dining nearby at the Chattahoochee RiverWalk. You can even brave the rapids on a rafting trip or zipline across the river with Whitewater Express.
Fort Mountain State Park in Chatsworth, Georgia. Photo by @tfdecot
Picnic in a Park
Pack a blanket and carry a favorite meal to an overlook for a charming change of scenery at one of Georgia's State Parks. In Chatsworth, hike to a spacious wooden deck and a stunning view on Fort Mountain State Park's West Overlook Trail, and be sure to look for the heart-shaped stone in the fire tower at the park. Or, take a more leisurely stroll to picnic near the longest covered bridge in the state at Watson Mill Bridge State Park in Comer. Sample the spring water still flowing at Indian Springs State Park, one of the oldest state parks in the nation, or take in the view from Dowdell's Knob, where a president used to ponder at F.D. Roosevelt State Park in Pine Mountain.
George L. Smith State Park in Twin City, Georgia. Photo by @mpwhidby
Get Out on the Water
Take a scene from classic love stories and serenade your sweetheart, guiding a canoe or kayak among the cypress trees at the secluded George L. Smith State Park. Rent a boat from the park or bring your own, and spend hours exploring miles of blackwater trails. A multitude of blue heron and white ibis, soaring and nesting above, lends a surreal, jungle-like feel to the paddle.
James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park in Summerville, Georgia. Photo by @westy4xer
Find a Rushing Waterfall
Taking the plunge this Valentine's Day? Georgia’s waterfalls create a stunning backdrop for popping the question. Follow the Marble Mine Trail at James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park to walk behind a waterfall, or follow the half-mile trail to the twin waterfalls at Anna Ruby Falls in Helen. Climb the stairs or follow the easier path to the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast at Amicalola Falls State Park, or hike to the stunning Minnehaha Falls.
High Falls State Park in Jackson, Georgia
Go Camping
Cuddle up at a campsite in Crooked River State Park followed by a day of walking the pristine beach on Cumberland Island. Or, leave the tent at home and stay in a yurt at High Falls State Park, named for tumbling cascades on the Towaliga River. You can even rent a tiny cabin in the forest in North Georgia, or explore the open road in a tiny cabin on wheels when you rent a campervan.
