Introduction to Kayaking!

Interested in getting out on the water? Join National Park Service staff and volunteers for an introductory kayaking session! This program will include both on-land and on-water portions to introduce participants to basics of kayaking:boats and paddlespersonal flotation......More

Interested in getting out on the water? Join National Park Service staff and volunteers for an introductory kayaking session! This program will include both on-land and on-water portions to introduce participants to basics of kayaking:boats and paddlespersonal flotation devices and other safety gearpaddling posture strokes and formsafety and self-rescue basicstrip planning next steps for learning and getting out on the waterWe provide boats paddles and Personal Flotation Devices (life jackets). Where: Island Ford Pond @ Island Ford 1978 Island Ford Parkway Sandy Springs GA 30350. Park in the second parking lot on the left as you drive the entrance road and walk down to the pond or park in the lower lot next to the Visitor Center (third parking lot) and walk the trail back toward the pond. (No parking at the pond.) We will be paddling on the pond not the river for this session.Limits: Limit 12 participants per session ages 12+. Under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Wearing a fully-zipped well-fitted life jacket (provided by NPS) is a requirement for participation.Preparation: Participants should come prepared for physical activity (we will be getting on kayaks on the water!) and to get fully wet. Drinking water and close-toed shoes that will not slip off are required (no flip-flops or slides sandals or old gym shoes work well). Hat sunglasses sunscreen and clothes that dry quickly are recommended. A snack is never a bad idea. Please do not bring valuables or anything you wouldn’t want to get wet or lost. (Phones may be waterproof but they don’t float!) No pets allowed.Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early to park and get down to Island Ford Pond from the parking lot. We recommend purchasing a park pass (required) in advance: Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Site Pass Site Pass in Georgia - Recreation.govProgram proceeds in light rain but will stop in case of heavy rain thunder or lightning.  

Island Ford Pond, Island Ford Unit, 1978 Island Ford Parkway, Sandy Springs, GA, 30350.

Introduction to Fly Fishing with Trout Unlimited

Description: Join the National Park Service and Trout Unlimited for an introduction to the basics of fly fishing. Learn about angler gear and Georgia trout. Try your hand at knot-tying and casting. Explore the joys of fly fishing!Note: This program is for ages 8+.While ......More

Description: Join the National Park Service and Trout Unlimited for an introduction to the basics of fly fishing. Learn about angler gear and Georgia trout. Try your hand at knot-tying and casting. Explore the joys of fly fishing!Note: This program is for ages 8+.While you're here, participants (adults, too) can also complete Junior Angler activities to earn the National Park Service Junior Angler badge!Note: this is a land-based event. We will be learning on land, not fishing in the river.Location: Hewlett Field at Island Ford, 8800 Roberts Drive, Sandy Springs, GA, 30350. Entrance to the park is at 8800 Roberts Dr. Follow the entrance road up to the Visitor Center. Follow the paved trail behind the visitor center down to Hewlett Field at the river.Facilities: Restroom and water fountain at the Visitor Center.Bring:  Please bring water. Wear comfortable, close-toed shoes. A hat or sunscreen is recommended.Limit:  50. Registration required.

Island Ford Unit, 8800 Roberts Dr (park entrance), Sandy Springs, GA, 30350. Follow the entrance road to park at the Hewlett Lodge Visitor Center. Follow the paved trail behind the lodge down to Hewlett Field at the river.

Volunteer Trail Restoration Day

Twice-monthly trailwork volunteer day. Join us to clean up trails in various units of Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area.RSVP to [email protected] required. Bring: Pants, close-toed shoes, hat, water, snacks.

Email Volunteer Coordinator [email protected] for event information.

Widllife Sanctuary Workday with Birds Georgia and Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy

Join Birds Georgia and the park's official Friends group, Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy, for a rewarding and meaningful day of community service. Each month Birds Georgia leads a volunteer workday focused on sprucing up the Island Ford wildlife sanctuary for t......More

Join Birds Georgia and the park's official Friends group, Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy, for a rewarding and meaningful day of community service. Each month Birds Georgia leads a volunteer workday focused on sprucing up the Island Ford wildlife sanctuary for the upcoming seasonal change! In partnership with Birds Georgia, we will be completing varying tasks including:- Removing Invasive Species: Help us remove invasive plants that hinder the growth of native flora and harm local wildlife.- Preparing the Wildlife Sanctuary for the New Season: Assist in planting and nurturing native plants to create a welcoming habitat for wildlife.- Supporting Habitat Restoration: Learn about the importance of biodiversity and contribute to establishing a sanctuary for birds, bees, butterflies, and other local fauna. Why Volunteer?- Make a Difference: Your efforts will directly contribute to the health and beauty of our wildlife sanctuary.- Learn and Grow: Gain valuable knowledge about invasive species, native plants, and wildlife habitats.- Meet Like-Minded Individuals: Connect with fellow volunteers who share your passion for nature and conservation. What to Bring:- Gardening gloves- Comfortable outdoor clothing- A reusable water bottle- A positive attitude and a willingness to get your hands dirty!Age requirement: All CNPC volunteers must be 10 or older to participate in volunteer tasks.This volunteer workday is in partnership with Birds GA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation and habitat protection of bird species in Georgia.This event will take place rain or shine, however it will be rescheduled in the event of severe weather including thunderstorms or flood warnings. Participants will be notified by email the morning of the event (or sooner) should an event need to be rescheduled due to weather. Note that Island Ford trails are closed for rehabiliation. More project info at chattahoocheeparks.org/iftrails.

Island Ford Unit - Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area1978 Island Ford Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30350

CNPC Wellness Program: Pilates in the Park

Join official park Friends group Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy for Pilates in the Park, a free monthly wellness event held on the first Wednesday of each month from April through October at 6 p.m. Set in the peaceful field near the parking lot at Powers Island......More

Join official park Friends group Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy for Pilates in the Park, a free monthly wellness event held on the first Wednesday of each month from April through October at 6 p.m. Set in the peaceful field near the parking lot at Powers Island, this all‑levels class offers a refreshing way to unwind, move, and connect with nature along the Chattahoochee River. This wellness program is dedicated to building equitable opportunities for all individuals to enjoy programs like this in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Participants should bring their own mat and come ready to enjoy an hour of mindful movement in one of the city’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you're a seasoned pilates enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this community event is a perfect mid‑week reset in the heart of the park. Bathrooms and water fountains are available near the parking lot. What to bring:Water bottleMat or towel

Powers Island Unit, Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area5450 Interstate N Pkwy, Sandy Springs, GA 30328

CNPC Wellness Program: Yoga in the Park

Join the Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy for Pilates in the Park, a free monthly wellness event held on the second Wednesday of each month from April through October at 6 p.m. Set in the peaceful field near the parking lot at Powers Island, this all‑levels class......More

Join the Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy for Pilates in the Park, a free monthly wellness event held on the second Wednesday of each month from April through October at 6 p.m. Set in the peaceful field near the parking lot at Powers Island, this all‑levels class offers a refreshing way to unwind, move, and connect with nature along the Chattahoochee River. This wellness program is dedicated to building equitable opportunities for all individuals to enjoy programs like this in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Participants should bring their own mat and come ready to enjoy an hour of mindful movement in one of the city’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you're a seasoned Pilates enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this community event is a perfect mid‑week reset in the heart of the park. Bathrooms and water fountains are available near the parking lot.What to bring: Water bottleMat or towel

Powers Island Unit, Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area,5450 Interstate N Parkway, Sandy Springs, GA, 3028

Twilight Bat Walk

Join the National Park Service for a twilight bat walk to learn about and observe bats in Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight. No pets allowed.

Columns Drive Entrance, Cochran Shoals Unit. 152 Columns Drive, Marietta, GA.

Campfire Program: Nature Art

Description: Join the National Park Service for a campfire, an opportunity to create art from natural objects, a short, guided walk and a beautiful summer evening.  We’ll collect downed leaves, twigs, and other items to glue onto paper to make collages. Create painting ......More

Description: Join the National Park Service for a campfire, an opportunity to create art from natural objects, a short, guided walk and a beautiful summer evening.  We’ll collect downed leaves, twigs, and other items to glue onto paper to make collages. Create painting using natural pigments. We will also create works of art using mud from the wetlands.  Create your own mud painting! Join us to express your creativity naturally and enjoy the beauty of evening’s onset at the Chattahoochee.You are welcome to come early and bring a picnic dinner.  After the program you are invited to join us on a short walk on the Three Forks Loop Trail.  You are invited to roast marshmallows (bring your own) or just enjoy the campfire.Location: Chattahoochee River Environmental Education Center, 8615 Barnwell Road, Johns Creek, Georgia, 30022.  Parking is limited and carpooling is recommended.Facilities: Located in the Center’s Lodge. Difficulty: Easy level walkingBring:  Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on a forest trail.  Dress in layers so that you can adjust to changes in the temperature and activity level.  Bring water and you might include snacks.You are also welcome to bring your own marshmallows to roast.  We have roasting forks that you may use.Limit:  50Registration required at www.chattahoocheeparks.org/events.To avoid delays, we recommend purchasing a park day pass (required) in advance here: https://www.recreation.gov/sitepass/2626/create/reservation

Chattahoochee River Environmental Education Center, 8615 Barnwell Road, Johns Creek, Georgia 30022.

Morning Bird Walk

Join the National Park Service for a guided bird walk at Johnson Ferry North. We will explore the trails and keep an eye and ear out for our feathered friends. We will also learn about bird conservation efforts and how we can all do our part in helping create bird frien......More

Join the National Park Service for a guided bird walk at Johnson Ferry North. We will explore the trails and keep an eye and ear out for our feathered friends. We will also learn about bird conservation efforts and how we can all do our part in helping create bird friendly spaces. We will go over binocular use and the basics of birding by sight and ear experienced birders are welcome as well as children! Binoculars provided.Location:  301 Johnson Ferry Road Marietta Georgia 30068.  We will meet by the NOC pavilion and restrooms.Facilities:  Yes.Bring: Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes for walking on a forest trail.  Bring water. Bring binoculars and a bird book if you’d like we will have some also. No pets please.

301 Johnson Ferry Road, Marietta, Georgia, 30068. We will meet by the NOC pavilion and restrooms.

History Hand-Craft: Textiles

Description:  Get crafty at the Chattahoochee! Practice making some woven creations of your own and learn the history of early industry along the tributaries of the Chattahoochee. This is a drop-in activity.Difficulty:  EasyLocation:  Vickery Creek, near the covered bri......More

Description:  Get crafty at the Chattahoochee! Practice making some woven creations of your own and learn the history of early industry along the tributaries of the Chattahoochee. This is a drop-in activity.Difficulty:  EasyLocation:  Vickery Creek, near the covered bridgeBring: Water, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended.Note: Parking at City of Roswell Old Mill Park is extremely limited. We recommend parking on Riverside Drive in the National Park Service lot and hiking over to the covered bridge and mill!) Purchase a park day pass in advance here: https://www.recreation.gov/sitepass/2626/create/reservation

Island Ford "River Ramble" Guided Hike

Description:  Join the National Park Service to look for summer wildflowers, ferns, and shrubs, signs of wildlife, and the beautiful rock formations of Island Ford. Discover the newly renovated trails!Difficulty:  EasyLocation:  Island Ford Unit, 1978 Island Ford Parkwa......More

Description:  Join the National Park Service to look for summer wildflowers, ferns, and shrubs, signs of wildlife, and the beautiful rock formations of Island Ford. Discover the newly renovated trails!Difficulty:  EasyLocation:  Island Ford Unit, 1978 Island Ford Parkway, Sandy Springs, GA, 30350. Meet in front of the Visitor Center.Facilities:  Restroom and water fountain at the Hewlett Lodge Visitor CenterBring: Water, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen are recommended.Registration: chattahoocheeparks.org Limit: 30Program is free. Park entrance pass ($5 daily or $40 annual) required. To avoid delays, we recommend purchasing a pass in advance here: https://www.recreation.gov/sitepass/2626/create/reservation

Island Ford Unit, 1978 Island Ford Parkway, Sandy Springs, GA, 30350

CNPC Wellness Program: Sound Bathing with Sarah Woolson

Join park Friends group Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy for this free community wellness program that focuses on a deeply restorative sound bathing experience at the Island Ford unit of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Surrounded by flowing wate......More

Join park Friends group Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy for this free community wellness program that focuses on a deeply restorative sound bathing experience at the Island Ford unit of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Surrounded by flowing water, towering trees, and the grounding presence of the forest, this session invites you to slow down, reconnect with your body, and settle into a state of inner spaciousness. Guided by Sarah Woolson, a licensed mental health counselor and board-certified music therapist, this sound bath blends therapeutic intention with the natural beauty of the riverside landscape. Through the resonance of crystal singing bowls, gentle percussion, and intentional soundscapes, Sarah creates an environment that supports reflection, emotional release, and embodied calm. Participants are invited to lie down, relax, and allow the vibrations of sound to move through the body encouraging balance, clarity, and a renewed sense of presence.Where to meet?We will meet in front of the Hewlett Lodge Visitor Center sign and walk down as a group to Hewlett Field for the program.What to bring:WaterYoga mat or towel A $5 daily parking pass or annual pass is required at all Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area park units. You can purchase a day pass at the trailhead or online: Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Site Pass Site Pass in Georgia - Recreation.govIf you have any questions please reach out to [email protected] About The Instructor:Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor and music therapist in private practice in Alpharetta, GA. She specializes in using music and creative expression in her work with clients, bringing a reflective, embodied approach to mental health treatment. Sarah also provides ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, interweaving music and sound to support individuals seeking inner wisdom and powerful change. Passionate about the transformative power of music and what it brings to the human experience, Sarah offers community sound baths, retreats, and wellness events throughout the Atlanta area. Connect with her online through Woolson Wellness to receive updates and learn more about her work.Website:www.woolsonwellness.comwww.transformationcounselingatl.comInstagram: @woolson_wellnessEmail: [email protected] Please Note: If rain forecast exceeds 50% chance of precipitation at the time of this program it will be canceled 24 hours in advance.

Island Ford Unit, 1978 Island Ford Parkway, Sandy Springs, GA, 30350.

Widllife Sanctuary Workday with Birds Georgia and Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy

Join Birds Georgia and the park's official Friends group, Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy, for a rewarding and meaningful day of community service. Each month Birds Georgia leads a volunteer workday focused on sprucing up the Island Ford wildlife sanctuary for t......More

Join Birds Georgia and the park's official Friends group, Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy, for a rewarding and meaningful day of community service. Each month Birds Georgia leads a volunteer workday focused on sprucing up the Island Ford wildlife sanctuary for the upcoming seasonal change! In partnership with Birds Georgia, we will be completing varying tasks including:- Removing Invasive Species: Help us remove invasive plants that hinder the growth of native flora and harm local wildlife.- Preparing the Wildlife Sanctuary for the New Season: Assist in planting and nurturing native plants to create a welcoming habitat for wildlife.- Supporting Habitat Restoration: Learn about the importance of biodiversity and contribute to establishing a sanctuary for birds, bees, butterflies, and other local fauna. Why Volunteer?- Make a Difference: Your efforts will directly contribute to the health and beauty of our wildlife sanctuary.- Learn and Grow: Gain valuable knowledge about invasive species, native plants, and wildlife habitats.- Meet Like-Minded Individuals: Connect with fellow volunteers who share your passion for nature and conservation. What to Bring:- Gardening gloves- Comfortable outdoor clothing- A reusable water bottle- A positive attitude and a willingness to get your hands dirty!Age requirement: All CNPC volunteers must be 10 or older to participate in volunteer tasks.This volunteer workday is in partnership with Birds GA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation and habitat protection of bird species in Georgia.This event will take place rain or shine, however it will be rescheduled in the event of severe weather including thunderstorms or flood warnings. Participants will be notified by email the morning of the event (or sooner) should an event need to be rescheduled due to weather. Note that Island Ford trails are closed for rehabiliation. More project info at chattahoocheeparks.org/iftrails.

Island Ford Unit - Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area1978 Island Ford Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30350