F. D. Roosevelt State Park

At 9,049 acres, Georgia's largest state park is a hiker's and backpacker's haven. Many visitors are surprised to find rolling mountains 80 miles southeast of Atlanta. Above King's Gap is Dowdell's Knob where President Franklin D. Roosevelt sometimes picnicked and pondered world affairs. A life-size sculpture of the president now welcomes visitors to the overlook. Several park amenities were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, including cottages and the Liberty Bell Swimming Pool fed by cool springs. A wooded campground sits near the edge of a small fishing lake, and privately operated stables offer guided horseback rides. In 1921, FDR came to this part of Georgia to swim in naturally warm springs that offered relief from polio. Today, nearby Roosevelt's Little White House Historic Site invites visitors to see his modest home, a museum and the pools that first drew him here.

Recreation: Hiking Backpacking Fishing Boat rental Canoe and Kayak Rental Picnicking Playground Liberty Bell Pool Swimming (seasonal) Horseback Riding, stables, trail rides, 28 miles of trails Rules of Stable & Equestrian Trail Use Roosevelt Riding Stables brochure Stables are open 7 days a week, but may close due to weather or for periodic maintenance, so please call ahead. Reservations are required at 706-628-7463. GeoCaching Stargazing Birding Ranger Programs -- guided hikes, crafts and more Visit Roosevelt's Little White House Historic Site Weddings (park approval required)

Nearby: Roosevelt's Little White House State Historic Site Liberty Bell Swimming Pool