Tucked away at the edge of the Chattahoochee National Forest is a 561-acre state park many visitors never see. It’s located outside of Summerville-a tiny speck on the map- and 30 minutes from Rome, Georgia, a slightly larger speck. You have to travel out of the way to find it, wandering off the main road and winding through the rural countryside. Named after James H. Floyd, who served in the Georgia House of Representatives from 1953 until 1974, you might hear the park called by its nickname, “Sloppy Floyd.” No matter what it’s called, if you’re visiting the Northwest Georgia area, James H. Floyd State Park is well worth a visit.
James H. Floyd State Park
It’s quiet here. There’s no glitter and glitz and no flashy attractions. Instead, visitors enjoy four seasons of natural beauty. The serene setting invites guests and offers outdoor activities for the entire family. Planning a trip? Here’s what you’ll find.
Outdoor Activities:
Hiking– The park features 5-miles of trails looping around the lake. Wooden swings are strategically placed throughout the paths, beckoning visitors to “sit a spell” and commune with nature. Waterfall lovers will enjoy the short .8 (each way) Marble Mine Trail. Formerly a marble mining operation in the 1960s through the 1970s, the slightly elevated trail extends up the side of Taylor’s Ridge, ending at a waterfall peeking out from a shallow cave. Visitors can sit on a bench inside the cave, enjoying the cool mountain air and listening to the splashing water. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the 1.6-mile hike to the Pinhoti Trail, a 335-mile Southern Appalachian Trail spanning across much of Alabama and Georgia.
Fishing- Two well-stocked lakes are teeming with wildlife. You’ll find everything from ducks, turtles, and the occasional water moccasin, to a fisher’s paradise of bass, bream, and catfish. Bring your own fishing gear and for folks 16 years or older, a valid Georgia fishing license. One of our favorite park memories was when we watched someone try to sneak up on a turtle, only to discover when he grabbed it and slid into the lake that it was only a turtle shell.
Bird Watching– Georgia is a migratory bird path, meaning you can experience both native birds and birds in transit. The upper loop trail is your best bet to see the bluebirds who reside in the park, while the boardwalk across the lake is an excellent site for waterfowl.
Geocaching- Bring your GPS enabled device and find the “treasure.” There’s 47 caches hidden in parks around the state and this is a great place to begin your adventure.
Picnicking- Bring a packed lunch and take advantage of one of the many picnic tables available. Charcoal grills are located beside the tables if you would rather prepare food on-site. I also suggest bringing a blanket and a book to spread across the grass after the meal. Be prepared for a gaggle of friendly ducks begging for snacks to waddle up during the meal
Playgrounds– Two modern playgrounds allow kids to release their energy. Picnic tables and benches are located nearby for adults who prefer to watch.
Educational Area-Stop by the Ranger’s Station to see the butterfly garden (in-season) and learn about the native wildlife that lives in the park.
Kayaking, Canoeing, and Paddleboat Rentals- At the present time these are not available due to COVID. Instead, visitors can bring their own kayaks, canoes, or motorboats to launch from one of the two boat docks.
Camping- No matter what type of camper you are, you can find accommodation here. Sloppy Floyd offers 4 cabins, 24 sites for RVs, Tents, and Trailers, along with 4 primitive campsites.
What to Know Before You Go:
- The park is located at 2800 Sloppy Floyd Lake Road, Summerville GA.
- A $5 daily parking pass is charged per vehicle.
- Due to COVID, the entry on weekends may be limited due to social distancing regulations. Visit during the week to enjoy a low volume of people.
- Call before planning a camping trip to check availability.
Have you visited James H. Floyd state park?
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This is beautiful state park. great place to take family for hiking. I am missing here now.
Awesome photos and a beautiful scenery. Such a gorgeous place to be able to visit during lockdown.
Geo caching in a state park sounds like such a fun way to spend time as a family together. This state park looks beautiful. We still need to visit ours. We haven’t gone yet since quarantine’s been lifted.
What a beautiful place! Love to discover the nature around us!
Looks like a lovely place to have a picnic! I haven’t been to TN in years but it’s so beautiful.
What a gorgeous place! Love that waterfall trail. Would love to visit someday.
I adore state parks. Usually they highlight what is best about our state.
What a stunning looking state park, it sounds like there is so much to do and see there. I would love to see the waterfall – something about that just makes me want to spend some time relaxing there.
My husband and I have been looking for some gorgeous outdoor areas to check out. I’m definitely adding this place to the list! It looks amazing.
Gorgeous! I just love State Parks. They are always so amazing to explore.
That’s a really beautiful area. I grew up in the south, and we’d go visit my Mama Lera in Tennessee a lot, so I love the waterfalls at this park. I’d definitely love to explore it.
That park does look like a great way to see nature. I know that I am not going there this summer but it seems like a great destination for a road trip and camp outing.
This looks like wonderful experience. I would love to visit one day.