Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities on certain days during July 2016 including Call of the Wild on July 23 when you walk the trails at night to hear nocturnal animals call.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park each month, click here.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah , GA 31411. On Facebook here.

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

Coastal Georgia State Parks May 2016 events include:

Marsh Walk with Dr. Charlie Belin
Wed. May 18, 5-6PM
Wormsloe Historic Site – Savannah
Join one of the region’s marsh ecology experts as he leads a hike into the marsh surrounding Wormsloe, providing a fascinating look into plant and animal life. Register in advance. Come prepared to get muddy. $4.50-$10. 912-353-3023.

Colonial Toys & Games
Sat. May 21, 2016 1-4PM
Fort King George Historic Site – Darien
Play old-fashioned games like tug of war, rolling hoops, quoits, nine pins, cup and ball. $4.50-$7.50 912-437-4770.

Kids in the Parks Day
Sat. May 21, 2016 1PM
Skidaway Island State Park – Savannah
Bring the kids out to enjoy outdoor games, our museum with live animals, trails and playgrounds. $5 parking. 912-598-2300.

Kids in the Parks Day
Sat. May 21, 2016 10AM-4 PM
Wormsloe Historic Site – Savannah
In addition to the sites’s normal tours, there will be few fun activities planned for the day that will be open and available for kids of all ages. $4-$10. 912-353-3023.

Memorial Day Commemoration
Sat. May 28, 9AM-4PM
Fort McAllister State Park – Richmond Hill
Pay tribute to our fellow patriots who served our country throughout the years with a commemoration and reenactment. Cannon & musket firings, Civil War-era demos & lots of family fun. 912-727-2339.

War of Jenkins’ Ear
Sat. May 28, until Mon. May 30, 10AM-4PM
Wormsloe Historic Site – Savannah
Wormsloe will commemorate Georgia’s role in the 1739-1748 war between Britain and Spain. A brief presentation at the Visitor Center will be followed by a walking tour of the site. The program will also include military drills & black powder weapons demonstrations. $4.50 – $10. 912-353-3023.

Memorial Day at Fort Morris
Mon. May 30, 11AM-3PM
Fort Morris Historic Site – Midway
This coastal fort will present hourly Revolutionary War soldier talks and musket and cannon demonstrations. Enjoy the beautiful vista from the earthen fort, over the Medway River and out through St. Catherine’s Sound, a view that has changed very little over hundreds of years. $3-$4.50. 912-884-5999.

FREE admission to museums, historic sites on Super Museum Sunday, Feb. 7

Georgia History Festival’s Super Museum Sunday 2016 is Sun. Feb. 7 when various museums and historical sites in the Savannah area are free and open to the public.

See the list of participating Super Museum Sunday Sites here. 

Various sites will have free admission on Sunday, February 7th, 2016, from 12:00 noon – 4:00 p.m., unless alternate hours are listed. All Coastal Heritage Society sites – Savannah Children’s Museum, Georgia State Railroad Museum, Fort Jackson, Savannah History Museum – will be open & free.

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FREE Colonial Faire and Muster 2016

Saturday & Sunday, 10AM- 4PM Feb 6 & 7 2016
Wormsloe Historic Site, 7601 Skidaway Rd, Savannah  31406.
Experience life in Colonial Georgia during the 18th century with a military encampment, sutler’s row, craft demonstrations, military demonstrations, and period music and dance. Food concessions will be available. Free. 912-353-3023.

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FREE Georgia Day Parade 2016

Georgia History Festival’s Georgia Day Parade in Savannah
Wednesday, February 17, 2016 at 10:30AM
Students & teachers costumed as historical figures march through Savannah’s historic squares during this beloved annual event.

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FOR MORE FREE SAVANNAH AREA KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE. 

151st Winter Muster @ Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hll

Saturday, Dec 12, 2015 9AM-5PM

Skirmishes between Confederates and Federals will be going on throughout the day.

Visitors will be able to explore the fortifications in its most solemn hour as the Confederates attempt to hold off the advancing armies of General Sherman from taking Fort McAllister, and ultimately, Savannah.

Rifle and cannon firing engagements will occur throughout the day between both sides, leading up to the assault and capture of the fortifications. Visitors need to be in the fort no later than 4:30 p.m. to see the final assault, which will occur promptly at 5 p.m. The fort grounds will be closed to visitors between 3:30 and 4 p.m. so soldiers participating in the main assault can prepare accordingly. The fort grounds will be reopened between 4 and 4:30 p.m.

$5 for Youth (6-17) $8 for Adults (18+). 912-727-2339; children under the age of 6 are free. Visitors will not need to pay for a ParkPass if they are attending the Winter Muster.
Handicapped Accessible

Location:
Fort McAllister State Park
3894 Fort McAllister Road
Richmond Hill, 31324

For more information, call 912.727.2339 or email your questions to FortMcAllister.Park@gadnr.org.

Colonial Christmas at Wormsloe Historic Site, Savannah
Sunday, Dec 20, 2015 1 PM to 4 PM
Participate in activities such as caroling, burning of the yule log, dancing to live period music, and other holiday observances of the colonial period, including games and refreshments.

Cost: $4.50-$10. 912-353-3023.

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First Day Hike Event @ Wormsloe Historic Site
Saturday, Jan 2, 2016 11 AM to 1 PM
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, no open toe shoes. Hike to the Civil War earthworks of Battery Wimberly. Guided hike with site history.

Cost: $4.50-$10 912-353-3023.

Wormsloe Historic Site, 7601 Skidaway Rd Savannah, 31406,http://gastateparks.org/Wormsloe  

Celebrate the Holidays @ Skidaway Is. State Park.

First Day Avian Loop Hike @ Skidaway Is. State Park
Friday, Jan 1, 2016 2 PM
Enjoy an afternoon hike through the marsh. This guided hike will discuss the history of Skidaway Island, marsh plants and local animals. $5 parking. 912-598-2300.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah , GA 31411, gastateparks.org/SkidawayIsland On Facebook here.

“Before the Storm” at Fort McAllister State Park in Richmond Hill just outside Savannah this Sat. Nov. 14 2015.

Fort McAllister, a 1,725-acre Georgia state historic park, will host “Before the Storm,” a living history program.

This is the perfect chance to see life as a Civil War soldier. Step back in time to 1864, a time when Georgia was in great peril. This program features soldiers preparing for the invading armies of General Sherman, who attacked the fort on December 13, 1864.

They will be firing their muskets and the cannon throughout the weekend. Walk among the soldiers as they go about their preparations and drills.

WHERE: Fort McAllister State Park
3894 Fort McAllister Road
Richmond Hill, Georgia 31324

WHEN: Saturday, November 14, 2015
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sunday, November 15, 2015
9 a.m. – noon

COST: Regular fort admission.

MORE: For more information, call 912.727.2339 or email your questions to FortMcAllister.Park@gadnr.org.

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Get Outdoors Festival
Saturday, Nov 14, 2015 10 AM to 4 PM
Come and see displays and demonstrations about many outdoor activities. Learn more about hunting, fishing, getting started in running, how to attract wildlife and birds to your backyard, geocaching and many more topics. There will be arts and craft booths where you can buy unique holiday gifts. The Exchange Club of Richmond Hill will be selling food.  There will also be a door prize drawing every hour.  Enjoy a craft show, hayride and entertainment too. This will be a great and informative day. $3.00 per person, under 6 is free. $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

UPDATE: CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER, SOGGY GROUND. 

Movie Night Under the Oaks @ Wormsloe Historic Site, Savannah
Sat. Sept 12, 2015 8 -10PM
Come to Wormsloe for a very unique experience and as they show the movie The Last Song (Rated PG) on a projector out under the oaks. Bring the family and a picnic. Sunset is at 7:35, movie trivia will commence at 7:45 and showtime starts at 8 p.m. $4.50 – $10 912-353-3023. CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER, SOGGY GROUND. 

UPDATE: CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER, SOGGY GROUND. FREE Movie Under the Stars @ J.F. Gregory Park, Richmond Hill CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER, SOGGY GROUND. 
Navy Federal Credit Union presents a movie under the stars featuring Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb (Rated PG). Come enjoy music, games, free bounce houses and face painting for an evening of fun-filled family activities. This event is free and open to the public. Concessions available for purchase.
J.F. Gregory Park
521 Cedar Street
Richmond Hill, Georgia 31324
Sat. Sept. 12, 2015
Festivities start at 6 p.m.
Movie begins at 8 p.m.
MORE INFORMATION: Contact Bruce Piefke at 404-713-9225 or bruce@senllc.com.

Labor Day Weekend 2015 kids programs @ Old Fort Jackson & Fort Pulaski in Savannah & various Georgia state parks include:

A Century of Sentries at Old Fort Jackson, Savannah
Sept 5-7
Bring the kids to Old Fort Jackson to participate in a variety of hands-on activities appropriate for all ages to learn about the daily life of the soldiers stationed at Fort Jackson. Activities include marching, battle reenactments, heavy artillery drill, and musket and cannon demonstrations. Learn about the many individuals and units of the of the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War that are part of the story of a Century of Sentries at Old Fort Jackson.
Old Fort Jackson
1 Fort Jackson Road
Savannah, GA 31404
912.232.3945

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Steam train rides @ Georgia State Railroad Museum, Sept. 4-6 2015
Train rides will be at 11AM, 11:30AM, 1PM, 2PM & 3PM Fri. Sept. 4 and Sat. Sept. 5
Sun. Sept. 6 train rides will be at 1PM, 2PM
655 Louisville Rd
Savannah, 31401
912.651.6823

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Living History at Fort Pulaski National Monument
Fort Pulaski returns to the summer & fall of 1861. Join Fort Pulaski as the 1st Georgia Volunteers garrison the fort with a living history weekend event. From company drill and inspections to artillery demonstrations, immerse yourself in a soldiers life as they live in the casemates of the fort, prepared to protect Savannah and the Confederacy.
Fort Pulaski, Fort Pulaski National Monument, U.S. Hwy. 80
9AM-5PM Sept. 5 & Sept. 6
Park Entrance Fee
Contact Name: Joel Cadoff
Contact Email: joel_cadoff@nps.gov
(912) 786-5787 X114. More details here.

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Wormsloe Historic Site, Savannah
Tools & skills that built a colony. See craft demonstrations such as woodworking, blacksmithing, cooking, spinning, flint knapping, leatherworking, woodsman skills, pewter casting and more.
Sat. Sept. 5- Mon. Sept. 7, 2015 10AM -4PM
Cost: $4.50-$10.
912-353-3023.

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Fort McAllister State Park – Richmond Hill, Ga
Come for old fashioned family fun, Civil War-era games, cavalry demos and prizes. Cannon & musket firings by reenactors. Nationally recognized reptile and amphibian expert, Jason Clark, will have his large trailer display of many native reptiles for you to view. At 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., he will present an informative program on snakes.
Sat. Sept. 5, 2015 10AM-4PM
Cost: $5 children, $8 adults (children younger than 6 are free) plus $5 parking.
912-727-2339 or email FortMcAllister.Park@gadnr.org

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Labor Day at Fort King George Historic Site, Darien, Ga.
Watch musket & cannon firings, see various jobs soldiers would “labor” on as part of their duties.
Mon. Sept. 7, 2015 10AM-4PM
Cost: $4.50-$7.50.
912-437-4770.

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Labor Day Commemoration @ Fort Morris Historic Site, Midway, Ga.
Commemorate Labor Day w/ hourly soldier talks, plus musket, cannon firings at this coastal fort.
Mon. Sept. 7, 2015 11AM-3PM
Cost: $3-$4.50.
912-884-5999.

Looking for a late summer or fall getaway? Check out the Len Foote Hike Inn in North Georgia where the hike is the only way Inn.  We did. Read about our mountain adventure to the eco-lodge here. 

As one poster about this sustainably-designed Georgia State Park inn reads: “If you enjoy wilderness but prefer a soft bed, hot showers and great food instead of camping, the Hike Inn is for you.”

The mission of the Len Foote Hike Inn – named after a Georgia conservationist: to make experiencing nature easy and help protect it through education and recreation.

To get to the Hike Inn, you do an easy-to-moderate five-mile hike from the top of North Georgia’s Amicalola Falls through the Chattahoochee National Forest to the backcountry Inn.

You spend the night in a rustic, TV-less bunkroom in the secluded Inn after a solar-heated shower (shampoo, soap, towels provided) and family-style, home-cooked dinner. After watching the sunrise (they beat a drum at dawn if the sunrise conditions are worth waking up to see), you have a huge breakfast, spend time exploring the lodge grounds and hike out the same trail when you leave.

Or, for those who want a longer stay and more hiking, Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the AT, is a 4.4-mile hike (8.8 miles round trip) from the Hike Inn. Most guests who hike to Springer Mountain spend two nights at the Hike Inn, allowing a full day for the hike.

The 20-bunkroom Hike Inn welcomes families. A family of three can stay in the same room if the child is 12 years of age or younger. The Inn has mats, so the child can sleep on the floor. For a family of four, two rooms are necessary. They have discounted rates for children 12 years of age or younger. Games and age-appropriate books are available for children.

Len Foote Inn is on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/lenfootehikeinn and on Twitter at @HikeInn

During Georgia State Park’s annual Your State Parks Day, participate in various service projects to help keep Georgia state parks beautiful.

Your State Parks Day 2015 is Sept. 26.

2015 Events in the Savannah area include:

Pollinator Garden Work Day – Your State Parks Day
Saturday, Sep 26, 2015 9 AM to 12 PM
Skidaway Island State Park – Savannah,
Volunteer for Your State Parks Day by weeding, mulching and adding new plants to our pollinator garden. Please wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. 912-598-2300.

Your State Parks Day – Tabby Ruins and Jones Narrows Clean Up
Saturday, Sep 26, 2015 9 AM to 12 PM
Wormsloe Historic Site – Savannah
Join Wormsloe Historic Site in clearing brush and collecting firewood for Your State Parks Day. Dress comfortably. Work gloves will be provided. Walk-in volunteers are also welcome. Please register by Sept. 26th. Sponsored by the Friends of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites. 912-353-3023.

Your State Parks – Day Red Bird Creek Trail Restoration
Saturday, Sep 26, 2015 9 AM to 4 PM
Fort McAllister State Park – Richmond Hill
Join us for our biggest clean-up event of the year. We will be pulling weeds, trimming plants, spreading mulch, painting, and doing many other maintenance projects. Bring the family or a club or scout troop. There is something for every age. T-shirts and door prizes provided by Friends of Georgia State Parks. No fees for volunteering. 912-727-2339.

Find more Your State Parks Day events here. 

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Fort Pulaski fee free day

Fort Pulaski National Monument in Savannah will also be free on Sept. 26 for National Public Lands Day.

Fort Pulaski National Monument on U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/fopu or call (912) 786-5787.

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FOR MORE SAVANNAH-AREA FALL EVENTS, VISIT OUR SAVANNAH FALL FUN GUIDE 2015 HERE. 

Fort McAllister State Park in Richmond Hill Fall 2015 Events include:

History Under Our Feet

Saturday, Oct 10, 2015 10 AM to 11:30 AM
Local Archaeologist, Jessie Larson will present a program about archaeology in our area. She will talk about local archaeology finds, how archaeologists know where to dig, and what tools they use. This informative talk and demonstration will be great for adults and older children. $3.00 per person $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Annual Candle Lantern Tour
Saturday, Oct 10, 2015 7 PM to 9 PM
Join us for our annual guided tour. See the soldiers go about their evening duties. Stop in the barracks for some hot cider and a cookie. Then prepare yourself for some noise as the cannon is fired over the Ogeechee River. This is one of most popular annual events.

$8 for adults; $5 children ages 6 and over. Children 5 and under are free. For more information, call 912.727.2339 or email your questions to FortMcAllister.Park@gadnr.org.

The Haunting of Blackbeards’ Island
Saturday, Oct 24, 2015 6:30 PM to 9 PM
Savage Island becomes Blackbeards’ Island for the weekend as we decorate and dress like pirates. Decorate your campsite like a pirate ship or camp and compete for prizes for the most original and most frightening campsite. Rangers will go site to site giving out candy. Come for a campfire where we will give prizes for best sites and best costumes. $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

First Saturday Hike
Saturday, Nov 7, 2015 9 AM to 10:30 AM
Get Outdoors GeorgiaIt’s feeling like fall, so let’s enjoy the nice weather and take a hike. Join a ranger for a brisk 3 mile hike along the Redbird Creek trail. Stop and enjoy the marsh and hear a quick lesson about the mysteries of the marsh. $2.00 per person $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Get Outdoors Festival
Saturday, Nov 14, 2015 10 AM to 4 PM
Come and see displays and demonstrations about many outdoor activities.Learn more about hunting, fishing, gardening, camping, birding,and much more. Enjoy a craft show, hayride and entertainment too. This will be a great and informative day. $3.00 per person, under 6 is free. $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Location:
Fort McAllister State Park
3894 Fort McAllister Road
Richmond Hill, 31324

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FOR MORE SAVANNAH-AREA FALL EVENTS, VISIT OUR SAVANNAH FALL FUN GUIDE 2015 HERE. 

Fort McAllister, a 1,725-acre Georgia state park in Richmond Hill, will host an event featuring megalodon artifacts suitable for all ages, 7PM Fri. Aug. 21 2015.

Local divers will tell their tales of diving for the teeth of the megalodon sharks that once swam in our coastal waters. This is a great opportunity to see these huge teeth as well as other fossils they find on their dives.

@ Fort McAllister State Historic Park Visitor’s Center, 3894 Fort McAllister Rd., Richmond Hill, Ga

COST: $2 per person, $5 park pass for cars

For more information, call 912.727.2339 or email questions to FortMcAllister.Park@gadnr.org.

Other upcoming Fort McAllister events include:
Come for old fashioned family fun, Civil War-era games and prizes @ Fort McAllister State Park
Sat. Sept. 5, 2015 10AM-4PM
Cost: $5-$8 plus $5 parking.
912-727-2339.

Crafting under the trees @ Fort McAllister State Park
A craft make-and-take for children ages 8 & older,
9AM Sat. Aug. 15 2015.
Cost: $3 per child and $5 park pass for cars
To reserve a spot, call 912.727.2339. For more information, call 912.727.2339 or email questions to FortMcAllister.Park@gadnr.org.

ABOUT FORT MCALLISTER:

Located south of Savannah on the banks of the Ogeechee River, Fort McAllister showcases the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy. The earthworks were attacked seven times by Union ironclads but did not fall until 1864 — ending Gen. William T. Sherman’s “March to the Sea.”  Visitors can explore the grounds with cannons, a furnace, bombproof, barracks, palisades and more, while a Civil War museum contains artifacts, a video and gift shop.

For more information, visit www.gastateparks.org/FortMcAllister.

Georgia’s First Fourth @ Wormsloe Historic Site, Savannah
Saturday, August 8, 2015 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wormsloe Historic Site – Savannah, GA
Hear the reading of the Declaration of Independence as it was read in the town of Savannah in August of 1776. Participate in the debate to declare independence or to remain loyal to the king. See musket firings and more.

Cost: $4.50 – $10. 912-353-3023.

Details here. 

Fort McAllister State Park, a 1,725-acre Georgia state park home to the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy, will host these fun summer upcoming events:

Fishing In Our Coastal Waters @ Fort McAllister State Park
Saturday, June 20, 2015
1 – 2:30 p.m.
Learn about how to fish in our local rivers and around the barrier islands from our experts. You will learn about the regulations and required licenses as well as what equipment you need. Live or artificial bait, how to throw a cast net, and where and when to fish, will all be covered in this informative class. This is perfect for new Georgians. $4 per person.

Junior Ranger Camp @ Fort McAllister State Park
Weekdays, June 22 – 26, 2015
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The theme for this camp is Archaeology and Native Americans of our area. We will have archeological digs and discover hidden treasures. Work beside a professional archaeologist and use their tools to learn just what they do as an archaeologist. We will also explore the Guale Tribe who once made their home right here. $90 per child.

Independence Day Celebration @ Fort McAllister State Park
Saturday, July 4, 2015
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Celebrate Independence Day like it’s 1864. Join us for old-fashioned fun. Games, food and fun for all. Living history demonstrations, cannon firings and musket demonstrations. $8 per adult and $5 per children ages 6-17.

Story Time With A Ranger @ Fort McAllister State Park
Thursday, July 16, 2015
10 – 11 a.m.
Join a ranger as she reads stories with a nature theme. Enjoy the books and then stay for some fun at our playgrounds and picnic areas. $5 parking.

Labor Day Celebration @ Fort McAllister State Park
Saturday, September 5, 2015
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Join us for some old-fashioned family fun. Civil War era games and prizes. $8 per adult and $5 per children ages 6-17.

Fort McAllister State Historic Park
3894 Fort McAllister Road
Richmond Hill, GA 31324

For more information, call 912.727.2339 or email your questions to FortMcAllister.Park@gadnr.org.

ABOUT FORT MCALLISTER:

Located south of Savannah on the banks of the Ogeechee River, Fort McAllister showcases the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy. The earthworks were attacked seven times by Union ironclads but did not fall until 1864 — ending Gen. William T. Sherman’s “March to the Sea.”  Visitors can explore the grounds with cannons, a furnace, bombproof, barracks, palisades and more, while a Civil War museum contains artifacts, a video and gift shop.

Nestled among giant live oaks, Spanish moss and salt marsh, this park is a beautiful location for camping, fishing, boating and picnicking. Seven cabins sit on stilts near the marsh, surrounded by palm trees and palmettos. The shaded campground is bordered by tidal Redbird Creek, a boat ramp, fishing dock and nature trail. A large picnic area offers river views and playgrounds, while another boat ramp provides access to the Ogeechee River.

For more information, visit www.gastateparks.org/FortMcAllister.

Fort McAllister State Park, 3894 Fort McAllister Road, Richmond Hill, GA 31324

Below are suggested forts, museums and battlefields near Savannah as well as others in Georgia for those that are up for a roadtrip. For directions and admission fees, visit GeorgiaStateParks.org.

FREE Parking & Admission Pass

Live Oak Public Libraries customers with valid library cards can borrow a Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites “Park Pass.” The passes are good for free parking or admission at any of the 63 parks statewide. For more information, click here. 

Forts near Savannah

Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill
This beautiful park south of Savannah marked the end of General Sherman’s March to the Sea and is the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy. On Saturday, May 23, watch a program about Civil War soldiers, as well as musket and cannon firings. Nestled among giant live oaks and Spanish moss, this park is also a great place for camping, hiking, fishing and boating. Cabins overlook the forest and marsh. For details on special Memorial Day Weekend family & kids events happening May 23 @ Fort McAllister click here. 

Fort King George State Historic Site, Darien
From 1721 until 1736, this fort was the southern outpost of the British empire in North America. Climb into the reconstructed cypress blockhouse, explore the palisaded earthen fort and tabby ruins, tour the museum. Be sure to hike the pretty nature trail following the river and marsh. For those wishing to take a mini staycation while in the area, campsites and cabins are nearby at Fort McAllister and Skidaway Island state parks.

Fort Morris State Historic Site, Midway
This earthen fort on the Medway River protected Georgia against the British in both the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. A museum describes the colonial port of Sunbury, and a nature trail and picnic sites are available. For a holiday getaway, cabins and campsites are found nearby at Fort McAllister and Skidaway Island state parks.

Other forts throughout Georgia

Pickett’s Mill Battlefield State Historic Site, Dallas
Pickett’s Mill is one of the best-preserved Civil War battlefields in the nation, highlighted with a museum, earthworks and wooded trails. The 1864 battle was one of the few Confederate victories during General Sherman’s Georgia campaign. Water lovers may want to spend Memorial Day weekend nearby at Red Top Mountain State Park on Lake Allatoona, where they can also visit Allatoona Pass Battlefield.

A.H. Stephens State Historic Park, Crawfordville
This park is named for the Confederate Vice President, and his 1875 home, Liberty Hall, is furnished and open for tours. A museum houses one of the finest collections of Civil War artifacts in Georgia. Families can also enjoy geocaching, fishing, hiking and boating at the park. Campsites and cabins are available for overnight getaways.

Georgia Veterans State Park, Cordele
Established as a memorial to U.S. veterans, this park features a museum with aircraft (including a Boeing B-29A), armored vehicles, uniforms, weapons, medals and other items from the Revolutionary War through the Gulf War. Park visitors can also enjoy camping, cabins, Lake Blackshear Resort, golf and boating.

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during May 2015 including free  Toddler Time for kids ages 2-4 and their caregivers at 10 AM Thursdays. Bring your child to enjoy stories, games and learning designed just for them. Each week there will be a different nature based theme.

Other free kids’ nature programs include: National Kids in the Park Day on May 16, hikes, a feral hogs program, birds of prey program & more.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park each month, click here.

FREE Parking Pass

Live Oak Public Libraries customers with valid library cards can borrow a Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites “Park Pass.” The passes are good for free parking or admission at any of the 63 parks statewide. For more information, click here. 

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Saturday, May 16th, at 1:00pm is
National Kids in the Park Day. 

Celebrate this day by competing in a number of yard games, such as water balloon tosses and sack races. The is a fantastic family outing!

$5 parking.

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Meet a Park Ranger

Join one of Skidaway Is. State Park rangers every Friday morning at 9:00 am to discuss all things Skidaway Island State Park. Learn what it’s like to be a ranger, what it takes to manage the park, or what the daily dealings/activities are. The possibilities are endless.

So come for great coffee, great discussion, and a great time.

See you at the Interpretive Center on Friday

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Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah , GA 31411. On Facebook here.

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

COPE (Childhood Obesity Prevention & Education, www.copeforchange.org , On Facebook here. 

Fort McAllister State Park, a 1,725-acre Georgia state park and home to the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy, offers several family & kids events throughout Summer 2015.

Fort McAllister State Historic Park
3894 Fort McAllister Road
Richmond Hill, GA 31324

FREE Parking & Admission Pass

Live Oak Public Libraries customers with valid library cards can borrow a Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites “Park Pass.” The passes are good for free parking or admission at any of the 63 parks statewide. For more information, click here. 

Memorial Day Festivities @ Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill
Saturday, May 23, 2015 10 AM to 4 PM
Come for an old fashioned Memorial Day with family activities and living history demonstrations throughout the day. Cannon firings and musket demonstrations hourly. $8 Adults, $6.50 Seniors and $5 youth. Children’s 5 & younger are free. $5 parking. 912-272-2339. Details here. 

Family activities include fiber demonstrations, spinning, felt bead and drop spindle making. Living history demonstrations will take place throughout the day including a Cavalry Unit drilling demonstration, Civil War era medical demonstration and weapons programs. Cannon firings and musket firings hourly.

For more information, call 912.727.2339 or email your questions to FortMcAllister.Park@gadnr.org

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Other Summer 2015 events @ Fort McAllister

National Trails Day Hike @ Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill
Saturday, Jun 6, 2015 9 AM to 10 AM
Join us as we celebrate National Trails Day with a hike on our 3 mile Redbird Creek Trail. Our Naturalist will talk about the different Eco-systems in the park. Bring insect repellent and water. $2.00 per person for anyone over 18. Children free with parents. $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Let’s Get Batty With Sarah @ Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill
Friday, Jun 12, 2015 7:30 PM to 9 PM
Learn about our Brown Bat population at the park and why we enjoy having them make their home here with us. After a brief talk , we will walk 1/2 mile to our bat houses and watch as they emerge for a night of insect hunting. Then we will return to the visitors center for a campfire. Bring a flashlight or headlamp, and insect repellent. $4.00 per person $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Junior Ranger Camp @ Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill
Weekdays 9 AM – 3 PM from Jun 22, 2015 until Jun 26, 2015
Details here.

Independence Day Celebration @ Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill
Saturday, Jul 4, 2015 10 AM to 4 PM
Celebrate Independence Day like it’s 1864. Join us for old fashioned fun. Games, food and fun for all. Living history demonstrations, cannon firings, and musket demonstrations. $5-$8 plus $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Labor Day Celebration @ Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill
Saturday, Sep 5, 2015 10 AM to 4 PM
Join us for some old fashioned family fun. Civil War era games and prizes. $5-$8 plus $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

ABOUT FORT MCALLISTER:

Located south of Savannah on the banks of the Ogeechee River, Fort McAllister showcases the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy. The earthworks were attacked seven times by Union ironclads but did not fall until 1864 — ending Gen. William T. Sherman’s “March to the Sea.”  Visitors can explore the grounds with cannons, a furnace, bombproof, barracks, palisades and more, while a Civil War museum contains artifacts, a video and gift shop.

Nestled among giant live oaks, Spanish moss and salt marsh, this park is a beautiful location for camping, fishing, boating and picnicking. Seven cabins sit on stilts near the marsh, surrounded by palm trees and palmettos. The shaded campground is bordered by tidal Redbird Creek, a boat ramp, fishing dock and nature trail. A large picnic area offers river views and playgrounds, while another boat ramp provides access to the Ogeechee River.

For more information, visit www.gastateparks.org/FortMcAllister.

Fort McAllister State Park, 3894 Fort McAllister Road, Richmond Hill, GA 31324

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during April 2015 including free  Toddler Time for kids ages 2-4 and their caregivers at 10 AM Thursdays. Bring your child to enjoy stories, games and learning designed just for them. Each week there will be a different nature based theme.

Other free weekend kids’ nature programs include: hikes, a feral hogs program, night sensory awareness & call of the wild hikes, campfire & s’mores evening & more.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park each month, click here.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah , GA 31411. On Facebook here.

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

Fort Pulaski National Monument in Savannah will have free admission Aug. 25 providing a great opportunity for kids to take tours of the fort or become junior rangers @ Fort Pulaski.

Fort Pulaski is on Hwy 80 East Savannah, 31410-0757 tel: (912) 786-5787. Details here. 

FREE Entrance Days @ National Parks:
August 25
National Park Service Birthday
September 26
National Public Lands Day
November 11
Veterans Day

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, VISIT OUR FREEBIES PAGE HERE. 

Junior Park Rangers

When you take kids to tour national parks, you never know how much they are getting out of the visit. Especially for those of us moms who aren’t exactly history experts.

Which is why you need to pick up the Junior Ranger booklets at the visitor centers of national parks you visit. The Junior Ranger program kids engage more during the visits.

Junior Ranger booklets have activities about the national parks for ages 5-12. Junior ranger books are free to any visitor and usually are available at the visitors’ centers. Often, similar programs with more advanced activities are also available for older kids. Just ask at the site’s visitor center.

While doing the activities, children enjoy earning a badge and a certificate.

Nearby national parks/monuments that have Junior Ranger programs include:
*Fort Pulaski National Monument, on U.S. 80 en route to Tybee Island. Info on the Fort Pulaski Junior Program here.
*Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie national monuments, Charleston, S.C. Info on these forts Junior Ranger program here.
*Cumberland Island National Seashore, Ga. More info here.
*Fort Frederica National Monument on St. Simons Island. Info on the Fort Frederica National Monument Junior Ranger Program here.
*Ocmulgee National Monument in Macon. Info on Ocmulgee’s National Monument Junior Ranger Program here.

View Savannah-area upcoming events related to the 150th Anniversary of the American Civil War, particularly the 150th anniversary this December of General Sherman’s 1864 March to the Sea & the Union occupation of Savannah.

*“Savannah in the Civil War,” A Film by Michael Jordan
6 p.m. December 11 @ Jepson Center, 207 W. York St., on Telfair Square Savannah
Local filmmaker/historian Michael Jordan’s 90-minute film highlights events and people who played a role in Savannah’s Civil War story. More than a dozen historians discuss forces that shaped Savannah’s war years, and thirty local actors portray important Savannahians of the time. Characters include Suzie King Taylor, the only African-American woman to keep a journal during the war, and Francis Bartow, who suggested gray as the Confederate military uniform color. Learn about the massive prisoner-of-war camp in that housed thousands of Union prisoners in Forsyth Park, the dramatic battle between ironcal warships in Ossabaw Sound and other key events.

After the screening, Jordan will participate in Q&A discussion. The movie is 90 minutes long and free for Telfair members or $12 for non-members. Watch a short clip from the film online at www.civilwar-savannah.com.

Details here. 

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*Georgia Historical Society Commemorates Sherman’s March to the Sea with new historical marker
1-2 PM Dec. 11
Join the Georgia Historical Society and the Georgia Battlefields Association as they dedicate a new historical marker commemorating the 150th anniversary of General William T. Sherman’s March to the Sea. The dedication will consist of a brief program to unveil the new historical marker and discuss Sherman’s historic march in the context of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War in Georgia.
Madison Square, Savannah 31401
912-651-2125

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*150th Winter Muster – Civil War Enactment

Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill: This is the site where Sherman ended his “March to the Sea” in December of 1864. Planned commemorations will mark the Capture of Fort McAllister Dec. 13 2014.

Saturday, Dec 13, 2014 9 AM-4 PM with the battle at 5 PM
Come on the actual date — 150 years since General Sherman ordered his troops to take Ft. McAllister. Watch as historians reenact this significant moment in our country’s history. Help make this 150th Winter Muster the greatest one yet. The museum and staging area will be closed to the public at 4pm, and will reopen for the battle at 5pm. 912-727-2339. Details here. 

This 150th Anniversary of Sherman’s ‘March to the Sea’ will bring 300 Re-enactors to Fort McAllister exactly 150 years after Gen. William T. Sherman ended his “March to the Sea” by overtaking the fort.

Additional public events planned for December 11 and 12 as well.
The three-day commemoration begins Thursday, December 11 as Union soldiers set up camp at the Richmond Hill Museum and answer visitors’ questions about the upcoming battle.
On Friday, soldiers will march from the intersection of Highway 144 and Fort McAllister Road to the park, setting up camp when they arrive.
By 9 a.m. on Saturday, the fort will be filled with Confederate soldiers as they prepare for the battle they know is coming. Throughout the day, visitors can watch skirmishes between Union and Confederate troop as they fire muskets and cannons. Guests can also walk among the earthworks and tour a Civil War museum.
Then at 5 p.m., the same time that the actual battle occurred 150 years ago, visitors can watch Union forces breach the fort and take Confederates as prisoners.
When Union troops took control of Fort McAllister in 1864, they marked the end of Gen. Sherman’s “March to the Sea” and enabled him to present Savannah as a Christmas gift to President Lincoln.

“Fort McAllister is a very significant part of Georgia’s history, and we’re especially pleased that our annual Winter Muster falls on the exact date of the original battle” said Park Manager Jason Carter. “This event is expected bring in a large number of visitors to the Richmond Hill and Savannah areas, so it’s good for tourism. They will be dining and shopping at local businesses and making a positive impact on our community.”

Fort McAllister State Park is located on the Ogeechee River. Admission to Winter Muster is $6. To learn more, visit www.GaStateParks.org/fortmcallister or call 912-727-2339.

Location:
Fort McAllister State Park
3894 Fort McAllister Road
Richmond Hill, 31324

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FREE Civil War Medicine event, Savannah, Dec. 17

Join the Savannah Chatham County Public School System at Massie Heritage Center in downtown Savannah at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17 for Civil War Medicine in Savannah, a program devoted toward medical procedures and practices of the Antebellum Era. The guest presenter will be Talley Kirkland, Interpretive Ranger at Fort McAllister State Historic Park. The program will include guided tours of the facility from 5-6 p.m. before the main presentation begins and there is no fee for admission. For more information, search “Massie” at www.eventbrite.com or call (912) 395-5070.

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*Civil War Demonstrations @ Old Fort Jackson, Savannah 
This December 2014 marks the 150th anniversary of the evacuation of Fort Jackson. Several days before December 20, 1864, General William Hardee arrived to take command of Savannah’s defenses. He refused General Sherman’s demand to surrender and ordered the evacuation of the city and all surrounding defenses. To commemorate this event Old Fort Jackson will offer engaging programs throughout the weekend of December 20th and 21st. Details here. 

Celebrate the Holidays @ Skidaway Is. State Park.

Luminary Night is a special time.  With family-centered activities, as well as a magical walk in the maritime forest, this is an event you’ll want to add to your holiday traditions.

Luminary Night with Santa @ Skidaway Is. State Park

Saturday, Dec 13, 2014 6-8 PM
Bring your children and pets for pictures with Santa. Enjoy a walk along our enchanted luminary trail and take a hayride around the park. Sip on hot chocolate while decorating cookies and making holiday crafts.
$5 per picture, hayrides $2.
$5 parking. 912-598-2300.

FREE KIDS NATURE EVENTS WEDNESDAYS-SUNDAYS IN DECEMBER

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays in December including free  Toddler Time for kids ages 2-4 and their caregivers at 10 AM Thursdays. Bring your child to enjoy stories, games and learning designed just for them. Each week there will be a different nature based theme.

Other free kids’ programs happening in December 2014 include Holiday Movie Night showing of Home Alone on Dec. 20; Venomous Snake Safety and ID programs; Wilderness Survival; & more.

For the complete list of FREE kids’ nature events happening during December at Skidaway Island State Park, click here. 

First Day Avian Loop Hike @ Skidaway Is. State Park

Thursday, Jan 1, 2015 1 PM
Enjoy an afternoon hike through the marsh. This guided hike will discuss the history of Skidaway Island, marsh plants and local animals.
$5 parking. 912-598-2300.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah , GA 31411. On Facebook here.

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

Colonial Christmas at Wormsloe Historic Site, Savannah
Sunday, Dec 21, 2014 12 PM to 4 PM

Participate in activities such as caroling, burning of the yule log, dancing to live period music, and other holiday observances of the colonial period, including games and refreshments.

$4.50-$10. 912-353-3023.

Wormsloe Historic Site, 7601 Skidaway Rd Savannah, 31406, http://gastateparks.org/Wormsloe  

FOR MORE FAMILY HOLIDAY EVENTS IN SAVANNAH & NEARBY, CLICK HERE.