Hard Labor Creek State Park invites you this August to explore the stars, or rather meteors, from its facilities in Rutledge! Throughout the month, the camp staff are hosting activities, tours, and a party centered around the Perseid Meteor Shower which will soar past Earth until the end of August.
It all starts at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 10 with their first Twilight Kayak Tour.
According to the park, “On this ranger led tour on Lake Rutledge enjoy the setting sun, nature sounds, and interesting facts about the history of Hard Labor Creek State Park.” Space is limited, so pre-registration is required. The cost is $10 per person if they already own a kayak, or $15 per person if they don’t own a kayak (rental). There will also be Twilight Kayak Tours on Saturday, Aug.11 and Friday, Aug. 17, both at 7 p.m..
But the kayaking tours at Hard Labor Creek don’t stop there! From 10-11 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 10; Saturday, Aug. 11; Friday, Aug. 17; and Saturday, Aug. 18t (also available from 11:30 p.m-12:30 a.m. on this date) a Paddle Under the Perseids Meteor Kayak Tour is available for friends and family.
“Join a park ranger as we watch what is considered to be the year’s best meteor shower because the meteors are often bright and leave long trails.” The park also tells us that, “-this year a new moon promises dark skies for viewing. Bring flashlight, bug repellent, water, and water shoes. All tours meet at beach area.” These tours are 50 percent off for overnight guests. Preregistration is required as well, and the cost is $20 plus $5 parking.
Hard Labor Creek tops off the fun with a big Perseid Shooting Star Party on Sunday, Aug. 12 from 9 pm til 1 a.m. in the morning the next day.
The park promises, “-concessions, music, and meteor viewing. Astronomers will be there to answer questions. A short presentation will take place at 9:30 p.m. to kick-off the event. Limited number of telescopes will be available to view the night sky or bring your own.” $5 is due per person (cash only), and kids ages 5 and under get in for free. The park cautions that bad weather may force them to cancel the viewing party. See below for more details.
A final kayaking tour, the Full Moon Paddle, is offered from 8.30 – 10 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 25 under the light of a full moon ($10 per person with kayak / $15 per person for rental kayak). The camp allows only children 8 years or older to participate in kayaking tours, and preregistration is required.
However, if kayaking and astronomy isn’t your thing, then Hard Labor Creek State Park also hosts two more events this August. On Saturday, Aug. 4 from 9-11:30 am, the park is hosting a Volunteer Work Day at the visitor center:
“Meet other volunteers of Hard Labor Creek State Park and enjoy the work, company, and the outdoors. Work could include cutting back brush, raking, helping construct bridges or putting up directional signs. Registered volunteers will receive a VIP daily parking pass.”
Finally, on Aug. 24, the park holds its annual Friends of Hard Labor Creek Fundraiser at the Golf Course-Banquet Room from 7-9 pm. “This year, the theme will be sunflowers with artist Laura Rice of Madison, Georgia. All money goes towards Friends of HLC sponsored projects at the park. Price includes everything you need to take your masterpiece home when you are finished!” The event is adult-only and costs $35 per person. Preregistration is required, and the park asks that you call Bee Jay Sentell to register in advance: 678-789-8641. Beer and wine will be available to purchase.
So don’t let the back-to-school blues get you down! Come to Hard Labor Creek State Park for some serious fun for the whole family to enjoy. From scenic nightly tours to creative painting and lively parties, the park has something for everyone this August.
Address: 5 Hard Labor Creek Rd, Rutledge, GA 30663
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