“explore abandoned ruins”
Sweetwater Creek State Park is a peaceful tract of wilderness only minutes from downtown Atlanta. A wooded trail follows the stream to the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a textile mill burned during the Civil War. Beyond the mill, the trail climbs rocky bluffs to provide views of the beautiful rapids below. Additional trails wind through fields and forest, showcasing ferns, magnolias, wild azaleas and hardwoods. Park rangers lead informative hikes to these areas throughout the year. The 215 acre George Sparks Reservoir is popular for fishing and provides a pretty setting for feeding ducks and picnicking. However, there is no beach and swimming in the Reservoir is not allowed. Fishing supplies are available in the adjacent bait shop. During warmer months, the park rents fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and pedal boats. Visitors can join the Park Paddlers Club, which challenges them to explore waterways in six state parks. An award-winning Visitor Center—one of the most environmentally responsible buildings in the country—features exhibits on the area’s history, wildlife displays, trail maps, snacks and a renovated gift shop. A window-lined meeting room that seats 40 can be rented for gatherings.
Reviews of Sweetwater Creek State Park
5 people have reviewed this location
Ratings Summary
Reviews
You can rent canoes and kayaks here, which is so awesome-- or you can just hop right in to the creek to cool off!
We love Sweetwater Creek State Park! The Red Trail is a really fun, easy trail that my kids loved, and the yurts made for an excellent place to stay while we were there. Highly recommend!
challenging hike, but so worth it. could spend all day out here by the rapids. the old mill ruins are beautiful!
Absolutely beautiful place. Quick easy hike to the ruins.
Went letterboxing here with a friend; beautiful hike! The river was high, though, so the trails had been modified to compensate.
The mill ruins and rapids were so cool to see. The hike up to see them was pretty easy. If youre in the area you should definitely check it out!!
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Sweetwater Creek State Park
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- Sun - Sat: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
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