Jack Hill State Park
Georgia’s Hidden Family Retreat — Championship Golf, Lake Fishing & Southern Hospitality in the Piney Woods
Jack Hill State Park is a 662-acre family recreation park in Reidsville, Candler County, Georgia, nestled in the heart of the state’s piney woods and flatlands region. Named for Jack Hill, a longtime Georgia State Senator who championed rural communities and conservation in southeast Georgia, the park combines championship golf, lakeside camping, and classic Southern state park amenities in a relaxed, unhurried setting that feels like a step back in time.
The park’s centerpiece is the Brazell’s Creek Golf Course, an 18-hole, par 71 championship layout that draws golfers from across the region. Beyond the fairways, a 12-acre lake provides fishing, kayaking, and aquacycle rentals, while 30 campsites and 10 cottages offer overnight options ranging from rustic tent camping to comfortable lodging with fireplaces and screened porches. A seasonal splash pad, miniature golf, FootGolf, and multiple playgrounds make this one of Georgia’s most family-oriented state parks.
Things to Do
Brazell’s Creek Golf Course
The park’s signature attraction — an 18-hole, par 71 championship course set among the pines:
- Pro shop and driving range on-site
- FootGolf available (soccer ball on a golf course — popular with families)
- Tee times available year-round; affordable green fees compared to resort courses
Lake Recreation
The 12-acre lake is the park’s aquatic hub:
- Fishing: Bass, bream, and catfish from fishing docks — Georgia fishing license required
- Boat rentals: Kayaks, aquacycles, and fishing boats available seasonally (electric motors only on private boats)
- Shoreline walking: Paved paths circle portions of the lake
Family Activities
- Splash pad: Seasonal water play area for kids — open during warm months
- Miniature golf: 18-hole course near the campground
- Playgrounds: Multiple playground areas throughout the park
- Basketball & volleyball courts
- Outdoor fitness equipment
Nature & Hiking
A 1-mile nature trail winds through the park’s pine and hardwood forest, offering a quiet break from the recreational areas. Birding is productive in the mixed forest and around the lake margins.
Trails
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nature Trail | ~1 mi | Easy | Pine/hardwood forest; birding; lake views; flat terrain |
Camping & Lodging
| Type | Sites | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Tent/RV Sites | ~30 | Water & electric hookups; some full hookups; dump station; bathhouse with hot showers & laundry |
| Cottages | 10 | Overlook golf course; screened porches; fireplaces; fully equipped kitchens; linens provided |
Facilities: Updated bathhouse with restrooms, hot showers, and laundry. Wi-Fi available at park office and golf clubhouse. Georgia ParkPass required for all vehicles.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | ⭐ Perfect golf weather; azaleas blooming; lake fishing picking up; comfortable camping | Spring break crowds; book cottages early |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Splash pad open; full boat rentals; long days; all amenities operating | Hot & humid (90°F+); mosquitoes; afternoon thunderstorms |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | ⭐ Cooler golf rounds; excellent fishing; quieter campground; pleasant temperatures | Some seasonal activities closing; shorter days |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Golf year-round; mild Georgia winters; cottage fireplaces; off-season rates | Splash pad closed; reduced boat rentals; cooler evenings |
Visitor Tips
- ParkPass required: A Georgia ParkPass ($5/day or $50/annual) is required for all vehicles entering the park. Purchase at the park office or online.
- Golf value: Brazell’s Creek offers championship-quality golf at state park prices — significantly cheaper than resort courses. Weekday tee times are the best value.
- Cottages: The 10 cottages with golf course views, screened porches, and fireplaces are the premium overnight option. They book quickly for holidays and spring weekends — reserve well in advance.
- Georgia Grown: The park’s visitor center sells Georgia Grown products including jams, jellies, honey, and handmade soaps — great regional souvenirs.
- Southeast Georgia base: Jack Hill is well-positioned for day trips to Vidalia (famous for sweet onions), Claxton (fruitcake capital), and the Altamaha River corridor — deep southeast Georgia at its most authentic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Jack Hill State Park have a golf course?
Yes — Jack Hill State Park is home to Brazell’s Creek Golf Course, an 18-hole, par 71 championship layout. The course includes a pro shop, driving range, and FootGolf. Green fees are affordable compared to resort courses, making it one of the best golf values in southeast Georgia. The course is open year-round thanks to Georgia’s mild winters.
Can you rent boats at Jack Hill State Park?
Yes — during warmer months, Jack Hill State Park offers rentals for kayaks, aquacycles, and fishing boats on the park’s 12-acre lake. Private boats are allowed but restricted to electric motors only. Fishing from the docks is available year-round with a valid Georgia fishing license. The lake is stocked with bass, bream, and catfish.
Last updated: April 2026














