Train Rides & Watermelon Festivals in Cordele
Cordele
Tips on renting in Cordele
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
In Cordele, Georgia, where shimmering Lake Blackshear beckons, a day unfolds with the heartbeat of the outdoors. Imagine the sunlight dancing on gentle ripples as families set off in kayaks from the local marina, laughter mingling with the subtle rustle of cypress trees lining the shore. As you glide silently across the water, the scent of cedar mingles with a hint of sunscreen, urging you to explore further.
Indulge in a leisurely picnic along the lakeside trails of Georgia Veterans State Park, where vibrant wildflowers splatter the landscape with color. For those seeking a more exhilarating adventure, partake in fly-fishing or the thrill of cliff diving at secluded spots known only to locals.
Afterward, retreat to the charming Louie’s Café, a treasure known for its Southern comfort food, or sip a locally crafted wine at nearby vineyards, where stories linger as long as the flavors. As the sun dips below the horizon, don’t miss Cordele’s annual water lily festival, a celebration of nature and community. In Cordele, every moment is an invitation to connect—where riverside serenity meets the spirit of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Cordele has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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For those seeking kayak and canoe adventures near Cordele, Georgia, Lake Blackshear is a prime destination. Located at the Lake Blackshear Resort & Golf Club, the marina offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, allowing you to explore the 8700-acre lake’s cypress flats, flooded timber, and hidden coves. Rentals are available from the Visitors Center, and the marina is open year-round, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts any time of the year.
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Around Cordele, Georgia, you’ll find the stunning Georgia Veterans State Park, nestled on the shores of the 8,600-acre Lake Blackshear. This park, established in 1946 as a memorial to U.S. veterans, offers an 18-hole golf course, a marina, and a variety of campsites, as well as a mile-long nature trail and a beach. For a unique experience, take the SAM Shortline Excursion Train, which runs from Cordele to Plains, adding a touch of historic charm to your outdoor adventure.
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For scenic hiking trails along Lake Blackshear in Cordele, Georgia, head to Georgia Veterans Memorial State Park, situated on the eastern shore of the lake. Here, you can explore the Lake Shore Trail, a leisurely hiking and biking path that winds along the shores of Lake Blackshear and Gum Creek, or venture through the longleaf pine forest on the Walk-in-the-Pines Trail and Yucca Trace Trail. With four miles of nature trails, this park offers a serene and naturally beautiful experience, perfect for a morning or afternoon hike at any time of the year.
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