Smithgall Woods State Park

08/28/2026

Due to unforeseen circumstances, we have made the difficult decision to cancel Sunflowers and Selfies this year. Thank you for your understanding and we look forward to having the event next year.

08/12/2026

The Wetland Loop is the perfect trail for a quiet, cool(er) morning!

07/22/2026

Our Master Naturalist program has been an absolute BLAST this year! This past Monday, our attendees go up close & personal with the honeybees of Smithgall.

Want to try our local honey? Get your own at our Visitor's Center, any day, 8am-5pm!

06/01/2026

GEORGIA PROTECTED SPECIES LIST OPEN FOR NOMINATIONS

SOCIAL CIRCLE, Ga. (June 1, 2026) – Georgia’s list of protected wildlife is being updated. And during June, the state Department of Natural Resources is asking Georgians for their recommendations on native animal and plants to add or remove as part of the first comprehensive changes in 20 years.

Last updated in 2006, the state list includes species protected under the Georgia Endangered Wildlife Act of 1973 (O.C.G.A. § 27-3-5) or Georgia Wildflower Preservation Act of 1973 (O.C.G.A. § 12-6-3). These species are considered the ones most in need of conservation. Examples vary from saltmarsh sparrows and gopher tortoises to pink lady’s-slipper orchids and monarch butterflies.

State-listing offers varied levels of protection, differing between animals and plants. It also helps focus DNR conservation efforts and encourages voluntary conservation of wildlife habitats.

Draft changes have been developed using Georgia's 2025 State Wildlife Action Plan and teams that helped create the plan. The proposed revisions include adding and removing species, updating names, and syncing species with federal conservation listings, explained project coordinator Katrina Morris.

But DNR also wants to hear from the public about species to include, exclude or reclassify. “DNR biologists and species experts from across the Southeast helped develop the draft revised protected species list by reviewing the best available information on the status and trends for Georgia species,” said Morris, a Wildlife Conservation Section program manager with DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division.

“Giving the public an opportunity to review this list and provide input on things we may have missed will help ensure that we provide protected status for the species that are in the greatest need of conservation in our state.”

Species changes can be nominated at https://georgiawildlife.com/ProtectedSpeciesList from June 1-30. Before making a nomination, please review proposed updates to the protected species list and profiles of Georgia’s Species of Greatest Conservation Need (also linked on the website), including the sections on life history, habitat, range, threats and management recommendations.

After June 30, nominations will be reviewed, the draft list revised as needed and an updated lineup provided for public comment. Final amendments to state Rule 391-4-10 (Protection of Endangered, Threatened, Rare, or Unusual Species) will then be recommended to the Board of Natural Resources for approval.

FOR MORE
 Visit https://georgiawildlife.com/ProtectedSpeciesList.
 Email [email protected].

DNR is proposing updates to Georgia’s protected species list.

05/18/2026

Master Naturalist registration closes on May 20th! Call the Visitor's Center if you are interested.
(706) 878-3087

04/30/2026

The State of Georgia is currently under a Level 1 Drought Response, as issued by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD).

To help conserve water and protect our natural resources, the following measures are now in effect throughout the park:

Water Use Guidelines:
•Avoid unnecessary water use whenever possible.
•Limit shower times and turn off water while brushing teeth or washing dishes.
•Do not leave faucets running unattended.
•Report any leaks or dripping fixtures to park staff immediately.

Outdoor Water Use:
•Washing of vehicles, campers, or equipment by guests is prohibited.
•Use of hoses should be minimized and only used for essential purposes.

These small steps make a big difference in preserving water resources during dry conditions. We appreciate your cooperation in helping protect the environment and ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for all visitors.

For more information on campfire bans and drought guidance, please visit gastateparks.org/Alerts

04/07/2026

🌿 Spring Season – Art in the Park & Outdoor Events

🌿🎨 Spring in the mountains just hits different…

From Art in the Park to outdoor markets and scenic adventures, Helen is full of color, creativity, and fresh mountain air.

Saturday April 25th, 2026
10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Location
Smithgall Woods State Park
61 Tsalaki Trail

Spend the day exploring and being artistic … then come back to a warm welcome, homemade breakfast, and a place that feels like home.

That’s what we do best at The Sautee Inn 💛

Book your stay today at www.thesauteeinn.com

or call us at 706-878-8217