Below is a sample of March events at Georgia’s State Parks & Historic Sites. For more programs, visit www.GaStateParks.org/events and the parks’ web pages. More information on accommodations and recreation can be found at GeorgiaStateParks.org or 1-800-864-7275.

Indoor Basic Archery

Saturday, March 5, 2016 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Sunday, March 6, 2016 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Sunday, March 13, 2016 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Check www.GaStateParks.org for more dates.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge, GA
Have you ever wanted to release your inner archer? Maybe you’re just looking for a place to hone your skills, no matter the weather? Our indoor archery classes are a great place to brush-up on the basics or start from scratch with the guidance of a certified instructor. All equipment is provided. Ages 9 and older. Must call to register. $12 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

 

Atlanta Audubon Society Bird Walk

Friday, March 11, 2016 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge, GA
Bring your binoculars for this gentle hike through the park’s Power of Flight area or to Vaughter’s Farm Meadow Loop. Basic identification techniques and common birds will be discussed. Good for all ages. We recommend long pants and sleeves. Call to register in advance. Donations of birdseed for our Nature Center are appreciated. $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

 

Native American Heritage Day at Etowah

Saturday, March 12, 2016 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site – Cartersville, GA
Etowah will be hosting a lecture on historic Creek and Cherokee cultures in Georgia. Come learn about how our modern society still carries the past on its shoulders. There will also be a genealogy lecture and workshop to help guests understand how their families have been influenced by Native Americans. $2 -$6. 770-387-3747.

 

Reptile Day at Panola Mountain

Saturday, March 12, 2016 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Panola Mountain State Park – Stockbridge, GA
Are you in love with lizards? Silly for snakes? Head-over-heels for herpetofauna? Or maybe you just think they’re neat. Learn about and meet fascinating reptiles from our own backyards and around the world. Meet specialists and members of the Georgia Reptile Society and Georgia Herpetological Society. $5. Kids younger than 3 are free. $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

 

Hills of Iron and Iron Pour

Saturday, March 19, 2016 11 a.m.
Red Top Mountain State Park – Acworth, GA
The iron industry was one of Georgia’s first businesses long before the Civil War. Take guided wagon ride tours of the historic Iron Hill section of the park. Later that evening, watch molten iron pour from a blast furnace at 2800 degrees Fahrenheit. Scratch block molds will be for sale so you can make your own iron keepsake. (Buy early because they often sell out.) $5 parking. 770-975-0055.

Ranger-led Lake Paddle

Saturday, March 19, 2016 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Sunday, March 20, 2016 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 26, 2016 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Sunday, March 27, 2016 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs, GA
Join us for a ranger-led, peaceful outing on the lake and up Beaver Creek. This trip is for those 18 years or older who can swim or children 6 years or older who can swim and are accompanied by an adult. Meet at the Bait Shop. Register in advance. $20 includes canoe or tandem kayak, PFD, and paddle. $5 parking. 770-732-5871.

Full Moon Kayak Tour

Friday, March 25, 2016 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 26, 2016 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Hard Labor Creek State Park – Rutledge, GA
Join a guided tour of Lake Rutledge and enjoy a peaceful paddle under a bright moon. Listen for night sounds, enjoy the night sky, and learn about the history of Hard Labor Creek State Park. Register in advance. The program will proceed if it is cloudy or if there is light drizzle. All participants meet at the Beach. $15 plus $5 parking. 706-557-3001.

 

Do you plan to attend any of these events at metro Atlanta’s local parks? Send us your photos: Cynthia@eastcobber.com.