Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites are gearing up for a statewide celebration of National Public Lands Day this Saturday, September 27th, with “Your State Parks Day.” The initiative promises free admission to visitors who volunteer their time for a variety of projects across Georgia’s cherished natural and historical sites.

“Your State Parks Day,” an initiative championed by the Friends of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites, aims to foster community engagement and support for the state’s public lands. Katy Gramling, Manager of James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park in Summerville, highlights the event’s theme: “Serve, Support, and Celebrate.”

“This is a wonderful opportunity for Georgians to give back to the places they love while enjoying the beauty of our state parks,” said Gramling. “We’ll have a variety of volunteer opportunities designed for everyone, so anybody can join the fun.”

In conjunction with the statewide efforts, James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park will host a special “Outdoor Adventure Day” and “Kid’s Fishing Rodeo” from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM this Saturday. Families and outdoor enthusiasts are invited for a day packed with activities designed to entertain, educate, and celebrate Georgia’s diverse natural beauty.

Kid’s Fishing Rodeo: Reel in the Fun

Young anglers aged 15 and under will have the chance to test their fishing prowess at the Kid’s Fishing Rodeo. Specially tagged catfish will be released into the waters, offering participants the chance to reel in exciting prizes. Aspiring fishers should remember to bring their own fishing poles and bait. Thanks to Georgia’s Free Fishing Day, residents will not need a fishing license to cast their lines during the event.

More Than Just Fishing: A Day of Discovery and Thrills

Beyond the fishing rodeo, “Sloppy” Floyd State Park will offer a diverse array of hands-on activities to engage visitors of all ages:

Archery: Test your aim and precision with expert guidance.
Birds of Prey Show: Witness the grace and power of majestic raptors up close.
Climbing Wall: Challenge your agility and reach new heights.
Face Painting: Add a splash of colorful fun to your outdoor adventure.
Reptile Show: Learn about local wildlife and fascinating reptiles from knowledgeable experts.

Admission & Parking

While the “Your State Parks Day” initiative statewide offers free admission for volunteers, the specific events at Sloppy Floyd State Park are free to attend. However, a $5 per vehicle parking fee applies for access to the park. The festivities at Sloppy Floyd are proudly held as part of National Hunting and Fishing Day, a nationwide effort dedicated to promoting conservation and fostering outdoor recreation.

Plan Your Visit

When: Saturday, September 27th, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park, Summerville, GA
Cost: Free event entry ($5 parking fee per vehicle)
Contact: For more details, please call the park office at 706-857-0826.
General Information: For a full list of participating parks and volunteer opportunities across the state, visit www.gastateparks.org.

Pack your gear, gather the family, and head to Sloppy Floyd State Park this Saturday for an unforgettable day of adventure and outdoor excitement!