Gone are the days of backyard potlucks. Groups today are choosing to travel, sometimes planning entire weekends of activities, for their gatherings. From family reunions to spiritual retreats, Georgia’s 48 State Parks provide the perfect setting for social get-togethers. Group planners appreciate the peaceful, natural backdrop that comes with Georgia State Parks. In addition, a wide array of facilities and locations will meet the needs for almost every event. Perfect for all preferences and budgets, the parks offer a host of bonding opportunities and the chance to create lasting memories.

Accommodation choices range from rustic wilderness retreats to hotel-style lodges. Those needing space for larger crowds, such as church gatherings, may prefer group camps. These secluded areas consist of small “cabins” with dormitory-style bunk beds, commercial kitchens, dining/assembly rooms, restrooms with hot showers, activity areas and swimming facilities. Rental rates for group camps are cost effective, with a two-night minimum. A.H. Stephens, F.D. Roosevelt, Fort Yargo, Hard Labor Creek, Indian Springs, Kolomoki Mounds, Laura S. Walker and Magnolia Springs state parks each offer this type of unique setting.

Another affordable option is group lodges. These facilities include dormitory sleeping quarters for 12 to 50 people, restrooms with hot showers, and a kitchen and dining area. A favorite for extended families or sporting groups, these lodges are found throughout the state at Cloudland Canyon, John Tanner, George T. Bagby, General Coffee and Magnolia Springs state parks boasting reasonable rates, also with a two-night minimum.  Adventuresome groups who enjoy “roughing it,”, will want to book pioneer camps. These primitive spots include water spigots and pit toilets and will not accommodate RVs or trailers. However, these sites offer a chance to experience spectacular scenery, such as lakes, trails, swimming pools and lakeside beaches, with locales at 37 state parks.

For those who prefer hotel accommodations, yet still want a secluded setting, Georgia State Park Lodges offer economical meeting packages. Getaway planners appreciate the natural environments, comfortable lodging, tasty cuisine and affordable rates at seven locations, scattered throughout some of the state’s most scenic locales. Lodges are convenient to many major Southeastern cities, provide a variety of activities such as golf, fishing, boating, hiking, and also boast traditional gathering spaces amidst the retreat-style settings. Attentive coordinators are equipped to plan all types and sizes of functions from banquets to receptions and everything in-between. Lodges in northern Georgia are found at Amicalola Falls, Red Top Mountain and Unicoi state parks, while lodges in southern Georgia are found at George T. Bagby and Little Ocmulgee state parks. More luxurious accommodations are available at The Lodge at Smithgall Woods, a private mountain retreat, while The Reynolds Mansion on Sapelo Island, an architectural gem isolated on an island, is open to exclusive reservations only. For more information on Georgia State Park Lodges, call the regional group sales office at (770) 975-4291 or visit www.naturallybusiness.com.

With so many parks within driving distance of many major cities (both in and out of the state), Georgia State Parks offer groups the perfect place to connect at affordable prices, with low parking and facility rentals far below competing venue prices.  The Georgia Department of Natural Resources operates the Georgia State Parks system. From the north Georgia mountains to the Colonial Coast, 48 parks and 15 historic sites are scattered throughout the state’s most scenic locales. Natural environments, comfortable lodging, affordable rates and exciting recreational activities await guests year-round. For more information or reservations, call (800) 864-7275 or visit www.GeorgiaStateParks.org.