Review of the Newman Wetlands Center in Hampton, Georgia

The Newman Wetlands Center is a small nature park in Henry County, Georgia. It is part of the county's water treatment complex and is a model of how man can live in harmony with nature. Here are the key features of the center.

The Newman Wetlands Center is located at 2755 Freeman Road in Hampton, Georgia. It is only twenty minutes from the Atlanta International Speedway but you feel a world away. The Center is only 30 acres but the surrounding area is well forested. Much of the land hasn't changed from Civil War days. Admission is free. There is plenty of parking and I have never seen a big crowd there. You can walk around at your lesiure and take in the stillness.

The park is constantly watered by sprinklers from the water authority. This produces lush vegetation and provides an excellent habitat for animals. Whether man or nature made, the place is a wetland now. A half mile trail wanders through it. You pass by ponds with fish and beaver. The air teams with birds while fox stalk and raccoon steal. I'm no naturalist but these animals and more are here.

The trail is level and has several benches to stop at, catch your breath and look around. I know a man in his nineties who went around it. It is also wheelchair accessible. They welcome school children too. They have a picnic facility that they let you use on request. Teachers love it to take their kids to, have lunch, then tour the park. The park is safe for all groups, I have never heard of any trouble there.

The Newman Wetlands Center also has a welcome center. Here you can see stuffed animals and read about the center's mission of conservation. They turn the waste water into products for sale and for irrigation. The rangers that work there are friendly and describe the process.

I recommend this center if you like wildlife and want a change of pace. It is peaceful and stress relieving. I found it hard to find animals, though I'm sure they were out there. This is their home and they know how to blend in. You really have to watch and get with the rhythm of nature to see them. You could spend a day here with a good set of binoculars and a book of wildlife. Over all it's free. It cost money to hang out anywhere you go so stop by!