Sweetwater Creek State Park

About

Sweetwater Creek State Park provides an accessible wilderness escape for metro Atlanta residents and visitors seeking a quick retreat into nature. Located in Douglas County just minutes from the city, the park preserves 2,549 acres of forested land along Sweetwater Creek, featuring dramatic white-water rapids and the photogenic five-story ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a textile mill destroyed by Union troops in 1864. The camping area consists of five tent-only walk-in sites nestled within the Yurt Village, requiring campers to carry their gear uphill from the parking area. Each site includes electric and water hookups, a fire ring with grill, picnic table, and lantern post. A clean bathhouse with hot showers and flush toilets provides keyed access for overnight guests only. The camping area has its own playground and sits separate from the main day-use facilities. Beyond camping, the park offers over 15 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, a 215-acre lake with fishing docks and boat rentals including kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats. The award-winning LEED Platinum Visitor Center features exhibits on local history and wildlife, a gift shop, and serves as a starting point for exploring the mill ruins via the popular Red Trail.

Directions

From Atlanta, take I-20 West to Exit 44 (Thornton Road). Turn left onto Thornton Road and continue south. Turn right onto Blairs Bridge Road, then left onto Mount Vernon Road. The park entrance is at 1750 Mount Vernon Road, Lithia Springs, GA 30122.