What’s the best way to visit Georgia Veterans State Park in Cordele?

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.

What’s the best place to launch a boat at Lake Blackshear in Cordele, Georgia?

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.

What lakes near Cordele offer kayak and canoe tours?

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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Getting Around

Nestled along the shimmering shores of Lake Blackshear, Cordele beckons with its charming downtown. Stroll through the historic district, where artisanal boutiques and the local jewel, Turner Park, invite leisurely afternoons under canopied oaks. Don't miss the culinary delights at the acclaimed Cordele Grill.

What to Pack

As the late summer sun drapes Cordele in warmth, expect evening whispers of chill. Pack lightweight linens for humid days and a cozy cardigan for starlit nights. Don’t forget sunblock for lake adventures and a good book for serene moments by the water.

Must-Try Activities

Embark on a serene canoeing adventure at Lake Blackshear, where the sun-dappled waters cradle reflections of ancient cypress trees. Glide gently among herons and kingfishers, savoring the tranquil embrace of nature in this charming Georgia destination.

Smart Spending Tips

In Cordele, savor a meal at the charming Grill on Main, with entrées starting at $12. For a splurge, consider a guided fishing charter at Lake Blackshear, around $150 per person. Enjoy free activities like hiking in nearby Georgia Veterans State Park or a playful afternoon of canoeing on the lake, ensuring memories bloom without stretching your budget.

Discover Cordele, Georgia, a welcoming destination set along the tranquil shores of Lake Blackshear. Families are invited to indulge in a range of outdoor pursuits, including fishing, boating, hiking, and biking. Georgia Veterans Memorial State Park spans 1,308 acres and features an impressive 18-hole golf course, a dedicated model airplane flying field, and a captivating Military Museum filled with interactive exhibits and outdoor displays that honor military heritage.

For a truly memorable outing, step aboard the SAM Shortline Excursion Train. This beautifully restored 1949 locomotive winds through the scenic countryside, offering panoramic views and a fascinating journey into the area’s rich history and natural splendor. Children and adults alike will delight in this enchanting ride.

Each summer, Cordele comes alive with the Watermelon Days Festival, a lively tribute to the town’s reputation as the “Watermelon Capital of the World.” Enjoy live entertainment, mouthwatering cuisine, and engaging activities for all ages. Celebrate the season with your loved ones and experience the warmth and hospitality that make Cordele a favorite family destination.

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!

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.
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.
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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Train Rides & Watermelon Festivals in Cordele

Tips on renting in Cordele

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