F.D. Roosevelt State Park

Located near Warm Springs, Georgia and Callaway Gardens, F.D. Roosevelt State Park is named for Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the United States 32^nd president and central figure in the Great Depression and World War II. Roosevelt came to this area after he was diagnosed with polio in 1921 seeking a relaxing retreat and a place far removed from the world for treatments.

It was at nearby Warm Springs where he built his home, known today as the Little White House. The park is also home to his favorite picnic spot on the top of Dowdell's Knob, above Kings Gap. The view from his favorite spot is breathtaking and when you visit, you can easily see why this was his favorite area.

Today, visitors to F.D. Roosevelt State Park can ride up to the picnic area and enjoy a lunch with the president himself. A life-sized statue was erected at the overlook and watches over guests who picnic and enjoy the views.

F.D. Roosevelt State Park is 9,049 acres and is Georgia's largest state park. It is host to camping, swimming, fishing, horseback riding and hiking. Two lakes at the park are named in honor of the late president. Lake Delano, a 15 acre lake and Lake Franklin, a 25 acre lake. Picnic shelters, playground and a trading post round out the parks fantastic amenities.

Several structures within the park were built by Roosevelt's New Deal Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930's and are still in use today. The Liberty Bell Swimming Pool is a fully functional cool water pool that makes use of the parks natural cool water spring to feed the pool. An amazing display of craftsmanship can be found in the parks rock cabin, built by German masons of the CCC in the 30's.

Horseback riding is a popular pastime at F.D. Roosevelt State Park. Over 28 miles of trails allows guest to explore the backcountry of the park on horseback. Horses can be rented at the park or bring your own and stay at Roosevelt stables.

Hiking is a great way to see the parks interior. Over 42 miles of trails winds their way around the parks forests, mountains and valleys. Several loop trails allow visitors to experience a wide variety of ecosystems and lets them choose a distance they feel comfortable with.

140 tent and RV sites, 14 backcountry sites, 22 cottages and 2 group camps allow guests to spend the night at one of Georgia's premier state parks.

For more information on directions to the park, hours of operations and fees, visit the official Georgia state park website here.