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Georgia
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Georgia State Parks

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USA Parks
Georgia
Presidential Pathways Region
Franklin D Roosevelt State Park
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Franklin D Roosevelt State Park overlook © Christopher May
scenic overlook on Pine Mountain Traail, near Visitors Center
Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Tortise © Christopher May
On Pine Mountain trail
Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Little Whitehouse © John Bunting
The Little Whitehouse where FDR died in April of 1945
Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Little whitehouse © John Bunting
Another view of the Little Whitehouse
Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Warm Springs in Georgia © John Bunting
Area of the warm springs swimming area.
Franklin D Roosevelt State Park wolfden loop waterfall © Jamie Smith
Small waterfall along the Wolfden loop trail in FDR State Park
Franklin D Roosevelt State Park FDR portrait © John Bunting
This portrait is on dispaly in the museum and was being painted when he died in April 1945.
Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Luna Moth © Christopher May
On Pine Mountain trail.
Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Lizard © Christopher May
We saw scores of lizards on our hike in late April.
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FRANKLIN D ROOSEVELT STATE PARK
FRANKLIN D ROOSEVELT STATE PARK
2970 Ga. Highway 190
Pine Mountain, Georgia   31822

Phone: 706-663-4858
Reservations: 800-864-7275
Located near Callaway Gardens and the town of Warm Springs, this park is deeply rooted in the historical era of four-time President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Seeking a place for treatment after he was stricken with polio in 1921, Roosevelt traveled to nearby Warm Springs and built his Little White House. Several structures within the park were built by Roosevelt?s Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. Above Kings Gap is Dowdell?s Knob, Roosevelt?s favorite picnic spot overlooking a magnificent view of the valley below. A life-size sculpture of the beloved president welcomes visitors to the overlook. Hikers will enjoy the scenic trails in Georgia?s largest state park, especially the Pine Mountain Trail, which winds through a mix of hardwoods and pines. The trail's highest elevation is 1,395 feet. Pine Mountain is on the southern-most edge of the Appalachian Mountain range. Hikers are sometimes surprised to find this terrain in middle Georgia.
History of the Area
Established in 1938, the park is Georgia's largest at over 9,000 acres. It was named after President Franklin D Roosevelt who frequented nearby Warm Springs for polio treatment. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a New Deal program initiated by Roosevelt himself during the Great Depression era, built many of its facilities including cottages and bridges.

The park features Dowdell's Knob where FDR often picnicked and contemplated his policies; it now houses a life-size sculpture of him. Over time additions were made such as hiking trails like Pine Mountain Trail that spans more than twenty miles across diverse terrains.

Camping
- Campsites: The park offers 140 tent, trailer and RV campsites.
- Pioneer Camping: There are two pioneer campgrounds available.
- Backcountry camping: A backcountry campground is also accessible for hikers.
- Group Shelter Camping: Two group shelters can be rented out by larger parties.
- Cottages: Ten cottages with fully equipped kitchens and heating systems are provided for a more comfortable stay.
Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is a large lake where guests can rent pedal boats and fishing boats, or bring their own non-motorized watercraft to enjoy on the water. The boat rental facility provides life jackets with each rental ensuring safety while enjoying recreational activities in the waters.

Fishing
Anglers can enjoy two lakes, stocked with bass, bream and catfish. Fishing boats are available for rent onsite.

The park offers fishing opportunities in over 40 miles of streams teeming with trout.

Fishing enthusiasts will find ample shoreline access to cast a line or set up their favorite fly-fishing spot.

A valid Georgia fishing license is required for all anglers aged 16 and older.

Catch-and-release practices help preserve the fish populations within the park's waters.

Visitors may also participate in ranger-led educational programs about local aquatic life including various species of fish.


Location
Franklin D Roosevelt State Park is located near Lagrange, Columbus and Newnan

Picnicking
1. Franklin D Roosevelt State Park offers numerous picnic spots with tables and grills.
2. Covered pavilions are available for large gatherings or events.
3. Enjoy a lakeside picnic at one of the many scenic locations in the park.
4. Picnic packages include access to hiking trails, fishing areas, and playgrounds.
5. Some sites offer stunning views over Pine Mountain Valley.


Bicycling
The park offers over 40 miles of trails, suitable for both mountain biking and leisurely rides.

Mountain bikers should be aware that the terrain can vary from easy to challenging.

Some paths are steep or rocky, requiring advanced skills and caution.

For a more relaxed experience, consider Pine Mountain Trail with its gentle slopes and scenic views.

Remember to wear helmets as safety is paramount when cycling in this area.

Bike rentals aren't available on-site so plan accordingly by bringing your own equipment.

Please respect trail rules; some routes may not permit bicycles at certain times due to maintenance or wildlife concerns.
Trails
- Pine Mountain Trail: A 23-mile long trail, it is the longest in the park and offers hikers a variety of terrains including hardwood forests, creekside paths, and rocky outcrops.

- Dowdell's Knob Loop: This 4.3 mile loop takes you to FDR's favorite picnic spot with panoramic views; moderate difficulty due to some steep sections but well-marked path makes navigation easy.

- Wolfden Loop: At just under seven miles round trip, this moderately difficult hike features beautiful wildflowers during springtime as well as several creek crossings that add an element of adventure.

- Beaver Pond Trail: An easier option at only one mile each way; perfect for families or beginners looking for wildlife sightings near beaver ponds along its route.

- Big Poplar Loop : It covers approximately three-and-a-half miles through dense forest areas offering opportunities to see various bird species native to Georgia.

-Sawtooth Trail : Roughly four-miles-long featuring rugged terrain making it more suitable for experienced hikers seeking challenges such as sharp inclines and uneven surfaces

-Campground Connector Trails - These trails are shorter (less than two miles) connecting different campgrounds within Franklin D Roosevelt State Park providing convenient access between camping sites while also allowing visitors a chance explore nature up close
Birding
The park offers a variety of birding options, with over 173 species recorded. Birdwatchers can spot songbirds, hawks and owls in the hardwood forest or near Lake Delanor. The Pine Mountain Trail is particularly popular for spotting woodland birds such as warblers and woodpeckers.


Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
May 7 favorite vacation spot by b-yo-selph
park review stars; one to five clean and beautiful
July 18 A favorite park for us. by Jim/Joanne Silverthorn
park review stars; one to five Nice location. Pretty sights, good campground.
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Area Campgrounds
Pine Mountain RV Resort
8804 Hamilton Road
Pine Mountain, GA
706-663-4329
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com
Pets
- Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times.
- Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.
- Pet owners should always have waste bags available and dispose of them in designated areas.
- Pets are not allowed inside park buildings, including restrooms or cabins.
- Certain trails may restrict pet access; please check signage before proceeding with your pet.
- Excessive noise from pets is prohibited to maintain the peaceful environment of the park.
- Aggressive behavior by dogs towards other visitors will not be tolerated and could result in expulsion from the park.

Directions
Directions from Atlanta, Georgia:
- Start on I-85 S.
- Take exit 21 for I-185 S towards Columbus.
- Continue onto US -27S/US 431S/Veterans Pkwy.

From Birmingham, Alabama:
- Begin by heading east on I20 E/I59 N.
- Take the exit toward GA219N in Troup County.
- Follow Whitesville Rd and Hopewell Church Rd to your destination.

Coming from Savannah, Georgia:
- Begin with taking ramp onto i16 W
- Proceed west until you reach Macon where you will take Exit 1A for Interstate75 Southbound (I75-S).
- Merge into U.S Highway19 North/U.S Route41North via EXIT136

If coming from Charleston SC,
- start off going southwest on King St toward Queen Street
- turn right at Broad street which becomes Lockwood Dr./SC30W

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Georgia State Parks

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