Chattooga County is alive with activity today, offering residents and visitors a perfect blend of outdoor thrills and culinary delights. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a food connoisseur, there’s something for everyone as Sloppy Floyd State Park hosts its annual Outdoor Adventure Day and the City of Summerville launches its much-anticipated “Steam into Summerville Railroad Days.”

The historic Summerville Depot is the focal point for the “Steam into Summerville Railroad Days,” kicking off with the impressive arrival of a Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum passenger train. But the excitement doesn’t stop with the train’s whistle. A mouthwatering Chili and Brunswick Stew Competition is underway, drawing in amateur culinary teams eager to showcase their skills and compete for coveted cash prizes and ultimate bragging rights.

From 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., these culinary contenders will be serving up their best, not just in taste but also in spirit! Teams are also vying for the “Most Spirited Team” award, promising a spectacle of creative costumes and engaging presentations. Attendees have the unique opportunity to become judges themselves. For a $5 wristband, available for purchase on-site from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (or until sold out), you can sample a variety of delicious entries and cast your vote for the “People’s Choice Taste” in both chili and Brunswick stew categories. Individual votes for “People’s Choice Best Team Theme/Spirit” can also be purchased for $1, ensuring everyone can support their favorite spirited team. Beyond the competition, the free community event boasts craft and dessert vendors, live music, and a welcoming dining area within the Depot Freight Room.

Meanwhile, just a short drive away, James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park is buzzing with its own brand of excitement. From 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the park is transforming into a hub of family-friendly fun for its Outdoor Adventure Day and Kid’s Fishing Rodeo.

Young anglers aged 15 and under are invited to cast their lines in the Kid’s Fishing Rodeo. Specially tagged catfish offer the chance to reel in some exciting prizes. While participants need to bring their own fishing gear and bait, the good news is that Georgia’s Free Fishing Day means no fishing license is required for residents.

But the fun at Sloppy Floyd State Park extends far beyond the fishing pond. The park is offering a range of engaging activities, including an archery range to test your aim, a captivating Birds of Prey show, a challenging climbing wall, vibrant face painting for the kids, and an educational Reptile Show featuring local wildlife experts.

While admission to the Outdoor Adventure Day is free, a $5 per vehicle parking fee applies. This event is part of the nationwide National Hunting and Fishing Day celebration, aiming to promote conservation and outdoor recreation.

Event Details:

Steam into Summerville Railroad Days (Chili & Stew Competition):

  • When: Today, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Where: Historic Summerville Depot
  • Cost: Free entry; Tasting wristbands $5, individual spirit votes $1.
  • Contact: For more information on the railroad event, contact the Summerville Depot directly.

Sloppy Floyd State Park Outdoor Adventure Day & Kid’s Fishing Rodeo:

  • When: Today, Saturday, September 27th, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Where: James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park
  • Cost: Free entry ($5 parking fee per vehicle)
  • Contact: For more details, call the park office at 706-857-0826.