In a significant milestone for the state of Georgia, the U.S. Senate has recently passed the Ocmulgee Mounds Park and Preserve Establishment Act, paving the way for the state’s first national park.

While national parks have long been a cherished part of American culture—dating back to the establishment of Yellowstone in 1872—Georgia has been without one, despite its rich historical and natural resources. Located in Macon, the Ocmulgee Mounds is a historical park that boasts over 17,000 years of artifacts and features a unique spiral staircase mound, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient cultures. Although Georgia is home to 11 National Park Service sites, efforts to establish a national park have been ongoing for over 90 years. The bipartisan initiative aims to protect both natural and cultural resources, ensuring that future generations can enjoy hunting and fishing opportunities.

“This week, we took a historic, bipartisan step to designate Ocmulgee Mounds as Georgia’s first national park,” said U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock, a Democrat and the sponsor of Senate Bill 4216. “We’ll keep pushing until we get this done.”

The establishment of the national park is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy by attracting tourists eager to explore Georgia’s hidden gems. In addition to its historical importance, the new national park will serve as a sanctuary for the diverse wildlife that inhabits the Ocmulgee River corridor. This area is home to a variety of species, including mammals, birds, amphibians, fish, and reptiles, all of which will benefit from the protections that come with national park status. As Georgia prepares to embrace its first national park, advocates are hopeful that this initiative will not only preserve the state’s rich history