FDR State Park hiking & adventure guide

FDR State Park straddles the lofty stretches of Pine Mountain, a towering ridge that lifts high above the surrounding southern Georgia plains. It’s chock-full of scenic beauty, from unforgettable long-range views to golden grasslands and cascading waterfalls. And given its close, barely-more-than-an-hour distance south of Atlanta, it’s not only one of Georgia’s most scenic state parks, but it’s also one of its most popular.

Awesome mountain hiking south of Atlanta? You read that right: Pine Mountain is not only ultra-scenic, but it’s also a short drive south of the city. The state park is Georgia’s largest, and packed within its many acres are ample opportunities for an epic outdoor adventure.

Pine Mountain, located near Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Little White House, was a favorite destination of the President. Dowdell Knob, an extension of Pine Mountain’s long, linear ridgeline, was frequented by FDR for picnicking and quiet reflection. Today, a commemorative statue of the President sits near his former stone barbecue pit.

FDR State Park offers more than 40 miles of scenic, well-kept and diverse hiking trails on Pine Mountain, the most notable being the 23-mile Pine Mountain Trail. Beautifully maintained by the Pine Mountain Trail Association, the Pine Mountain Trail meanders across its namesake mountain, catching stunning views from lofty overlooks, visiting tumbling waterfalls, exploring a wolf’s den and beaver-dammed ponds, and making pitstops at a series of prime campsites. The park also offers more than 20 miles of equestrian trails, paddling on two lakes, stargazing under abundant stars, excellent options for camping and backpacking, and a calendar full of family-friendly activities. Add a collection of recently restored historic cabins and a historic stone-lined swimming pool, and you’ve got the makings of a fantastic, near-Atlanta getaway.

FDR State Park: top hikes on the Pine Mountain Trail

Running the length of the Pine Mountain ridge, the 23-mile-long Pine Mountain Trail winds, climbs, and dips through the park’s most scenic stretches. And combining the PMT with side trails, the park offers seven loop hikes that make for a great day hike. Here are a few of our all-time favorites:

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Paddle Lake Delanor

In warm-weather months, paddle the glassy waters of Lake Delanor, nestled in a shady forest beside the park’s campground and lakeside cottages. The park offers kayak, canoe, and flat-bottom fishing boat rentals; see the park office for details, rates, and availability.

FDR State Park historic cottages

With many miles of trails to cover and so much to see, we’d highly recommend an overnight stay (or a few!) in the park. Abundant stars fill the night sky, the makings of some epic stargazing. Fire pits, grills, and scenic picnic areas offer outdoor dining venues with unforgettable views. And Pine Mountain’s towering elevations provide incredible sunrises and sunsets.

Handcrafted in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the park’s cottages feel retro and rustic, but upscale and timeless. They feature fully equipped kitchens and full baths, and many offer screened porches for outdoor r&r after a full day of adventure. Each cabin, crafted of stone or log, is wonderfully unique: each offers a different floor plan, different furnishings, and each has unique character and charm. Some have gorgeous woodburning fireplaces, some have expansive entertaining areas, and some are simply snug, cozy and romantic.

Camping & backpacking

This state park offers many great options for camping, too. Choose from tent-only, 15-foot electric and 50-foot electric campsites, some with fantastic lake views. Visit the park’s reservations page to check availability and reserve a site. Wondering what to pack for a great night under the stars? Our camping gear list features our favorite tents, sleeping bags, furniture, cookware, and campsite essentials.

Or if you’re up for a fantastic backpacking adventure with some stunning views, backpack the Pine Mountain Trail and overnight at one of the trail’s 16 backcountry campsites (reservations required; see the park office for details). Please remember to leave no trace when camping in the backcountry, and pack out everything you’ve packed in to help preserve the park’s abundant natural beauty.

Nearby adventures

Add even more variety to your adventure at the park with a day trip to nearby Providence Canyon State Park. Hike the Providence Canyon Trail through Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon,” exploring beautifully colored and sculpted sandstone walls. And don’t forget the camera! Providence Canyon is exceptionally photogenic.

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