New Manchester Mill Ruins at Sweetwater Creek State Park

Lithia Springs

Home to Sweetwater Creek State Park, Lithia Springs is an unincorporated community in eastern Douglas County, located 17 miles west of Atlanta. Nearby attractions include Six Flags Over Georgia, West Pines Golf Club, and downtown Douglasville.

Around the turn of the 20th century, therapeutic mineral waters in Lithia Springs attracted many wealthy people to the area. The Lithia Springs Hotel was a popular retreat for visitors until 1912, when it was destroyed by fire.

Sweetwater Creek State Park was acquired for the state in the late 1960s by the Georgia Conservancy. Visitors to the park can fish, boat and hike to the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company's textile factory, destroyed by Union troops during Sherman's march to the sea. The entire town of New Manchester and the mills were burned by Sherman's troops on July 9, 1864.

FAQs ABOUT LITHIA SPRINGS

 

What are the top things to do in Lithia Springs?

Lithia Springs has a rich backstory — around the turn of the 20th century, its mineral springs drew Mark Twain, four U.S. presidents, and the Vanderbilt family to the area's famous resort hotels. Today the main draw is Sweetwater Creek State Park, with Civil War-era mill ruins, fishing, boating, and overnight yurts. 

 

What are the best activities for families in Lithia Springs?

Lithia Springs offers several stops on the Douglas County Trail system. The Film, Butterfly, History, and Agri Trails are self-guided, interconnected trails that showcase the area's natural beauty, rich heritage, and contemporary dynamism. The Douglas County Film Trail offers movie buffs a chance to step onto famous sets from hit shows like "Stranger Things" and "The Walking Dead," as well as major motion pictures such as "The Hunger Games" and "Avengers: Infinity War." The Butterfly Trail leads visitors through a network of meticulously maintained butterfly gardens. Step back in time along the diverse History Trail, which features a unique graveyard location with West African-rooted burial mound traditions. The Agri-Trail offers unique insights into farm life, including L&R Alpaca Haven Farm, where visitors can interact with friendly alpacas, learn about their care, and even discover alpaca-related products.

 

What are the best activities for couples in Lithia Springs?

Book a cozy overnight stay in a safari-style yurt, hike the scenic creekside trails, and view the stunning overlooks at Sweetwater Creek State Park. Located just 20 minutes outside of Atlanta, the park provides a peaceful wilderness escape featuring miles of forested pathways, picnic areas, and historic ruins.

 

What are the top festivals and events in Lithia Springs?

Sweetwater Creek State Park and ExploreDouglasCountyGA.com offer a local events calendar with ranger programs, guided mill tours, nature exhibits, and seasonal celebrations year-round.

 

When is the best time to visit Lithia Springs?

Spring and fall are ideal with comfortable temperatures, lower crowds, and vivid foliage along the creek come October. Summer is warm, but the shaded trails and water access help. Winter is quiet and uncrowded, a good time to have the trails mostly to yourself.

 

What is the weather like in Lithia Springs?

Summers are hot, with highs in the upper 80s to low 90s. Spring and fall bring comfortable days in the 60s and 70s. Winters are mild, generally in the 40s with occasional cold snaps.

 

What part of Georgia is Lithia Springs located in?

Lithia Springs is in Douglas County, about 17 miles west of downtown Atlanta via I-20, within the greater Atlanta metro area.

 

What is the closest airport to Lithia Springs?

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is approximately 20 to 25 miles east of Lithia Springs.

Learn More about Lithia Springs

Visitor Information Center

8512 Bowden Street
Douglasville, GA
30134
Local: (678) 838-3740

Lithia Springs Travel Guides

View and download resources for planning a vacation in Lithia Springs, Georgia. Find trip ideas, attractions, events, activities accommodations, maps, travel resources and much more.

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