🌤 Weather at George L. Smith State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 48–86 °F | 70–92 °F | 46–86 °F | 39–65 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Metter, 11 mi away, elevation 120 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
George L. Smith State Park features an 1880 covered bridge–gristmill–sawmill combo on a stunning 412-acre cypress-filled mill pond—perfect for kayaking and bass fishing!
⚠️ Boat rentals currently suspended due to low water levels. Bring your own kayak! Mill House & trail closing Jan 27, 2026 for renovations.
Historic Parrish Mill & Covered Bridge
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 🌉 Built | 1880 |
| 🏛️ Type | Gristmill + sawmill + covered bridge + dam! |
| 🚗 Vehicles | Closed to autos since 1984 |
Cypress Mill Pond
412 acres of Spanish moss-draped cypress and tupelo. 10 miles of water trails! 🐊 Watch for gators.
Camping
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏕️ Sites | 25 (W/E, some lakeside) |
| ⛺ Primitive | 5 + pioneer group site |
| 🔨 New Expansion | 30 full-hookup sites coming! |
FAQ
Can I rent a kayak?
⚠️ Currently not available due to low water. Bring your own—10mi trails await!
🌉 Georgia’s Covered Bridge Paradise
Reserve at GA State Parks.
Location & Getting There
George L. Smith State Park is located in Georgia. The park’s coordinates are 32.5333, -82.1500. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.
Quick Facts
- Location: Georgia
- Coordinates: 32.5333, -82.1500
- Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
- Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)
Things to Do
Georgia parks showcase Blue Ridge Mountains to coastal barrier islands. Activities include hiking the Appalachian Trail approach, kayaking cypress swamps, camping in diverse ecosystems, fishing, mountain biking, and exploring Native American mounds and Civil War sites.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are premier — azalea blooms in spring, mountain foliage in fall. Summer is hot — use high-elevation parks or rivers. Winter is mild in southern and coastal parks.
Visitor Tips
A $5 daily ParkPass is required. Annual pass $50. Advance reservations recommended. Heavy-duty insect repellent essential in swamp parks during warmer months.
Explore More Georgia State Parks
George L. Smith State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Georgia. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Georgia guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Magnolia Springs State Park (within about an hour’s drive) and Jack Hill State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at George L. Smith State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Leashed dogs are welcome in Georgia State Parks, including campgrounds and most park trails, and must be accompanied by the owner at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 feet required at all times; dogs may not be tied to trees or fences.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted in swimming areas or on beaches.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are banned from lodges, yurts and group camps; designated dog-friendly cottages are available for a $50 fee per dog (maximum 2 dogs) covering the entire stay.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; $50 per dog (max 2) per stay in dog-friendly cottages.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Dogs prohibited on certain trails at Tallulah Gorge and Panola Mountain; fenced dog park at Laura S. Walker State Park; 'Tails on Trails Club' rewards program.
Are dogs allowed at George L. Smith State Park?
Leashed dogs are welcome in Georgia State Parks, including campgrounds and most park trails, and must be accompanied by the owner at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via gastateparks.org. More: Georgia state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for George L. Smith State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near Georgia
from $35
from $33
from $155