Critters of the Night

Bring your own marshmallows and come sit around a campfire with a ranger. We will talk about the nocturnal critters that roam the park in the dark and go on a brief guided night-hike afterwards. Fun for the whole family! 

This program will take place at the Chattahoochee River Environmental Educational Center.

Blood Rock Ridge Loop Trail

Join the National Park Service for a leisurely hike along the river, across scenic Rottenwood Creek, and through the forest around Blood Rock Ridge.  This is a wonderful opportunity to view the local wildlife in action as well as see the unique geology that makes up the......More

Join the National Park Service for a leisurely hike along the river, across scenic Rottenwood Creek, and through the forest around Blood Rock Ridge.  This is a wonderful opportunity to view the local wildlife in action as well as see the unique geology that makes up the Chattahoochee River. During the hike, our Ranger will also share local tales and anecdotes alluding to the rich human history of the area (including how Blood Rock Ridge got its name)! 

This program will begin near the restroom building at Paces Mill

Create Your Own Zine Night: Write Out 2026

In celebration of Write Out 2026, a partnership of the National Park Service and the National Writing Project, learn how to make a nature-inspired zine and create your own! 

This program will take place on the patio of the Hewlett Lodge Visitor Center.

Coffee With a Ranger: Write Where You Are

In celebration of Write Out 2026, a partnership of the National Park Service and the National Writing Project, learn how to make a nature-inspired zine and create your own! Bring any preferred crafting materials to make your own zine! 

This talk will be held on the back patio of the Hewlett Lodge Visitor Center

Badge Up, Pup B.A.R.K. Ranger Program

 Bring your pup out to the park to get sworn in as a B.A.R.K. Ranger! Demonstrate responsible practices in the park to a park ranger and earn your furry friend a B.A.R.K. Ranger certificate. To earn a keychain, make sure you bring a way to post your new B.A.R.K Ranger o......More

 Bring your pup out to the park to get sworn in as a B.A.R.K. Ranger! Demonstrate responsible practices in the park to a park ranger and earn your furry friend a B.A.R.K. Ranger certificate. To earn a keychain, make sure you bring a way to post your new B.A.R.K Ranger on social media! Make sure to bring your dog's leash and waste bags! 

This pop-up program will be held near the Cochran Shoals Parking Lot off of Interstate North.

Island Ford "River Ramble" Guided Hike

Description:  Join National Park Service Ranger Jerry Hightower for a walk around Island Ford Pond and the banks of the Chattahoochee, as well as an optional tour through the historic Hewlett Lodge.  During this program, you will have the opportunity to see the various ......More

Description:  Join National Park Service Ranger Jerry Hightower for a walk around Island Ford Pond and the banks of the Chattahoochee, as well as an optional tour through the historic Hewlett Lodge.  During this program, you will have the opportunity to see the various elements that make up the incredible environment of the Chattahoochee! This could include the oak-hickory forest near the river, former indigenous peoples’ rock shelters, or some of the great blue herons and ospreys that call the river home. After the walk, join us for a brief tour of the historic Hewlett Lodge. 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

This hike will begin from the park's Hewlett Lodge Visitor Center

Painting With a Ranger!

Come learn about the role of visual art in telling the stories of National Parks while documenting your perspective of the changing natural world around us through watercolor. Supplies provided, no painting experience needed! 

This program will take place on the patio of the Hewlett Lodge Visitor Center