Oconee Forest Park

Natural Escape in the Heart of Athens

Tucked behind the University of Georgia's Intramural Fields lies Oconee Forest Park, a 60-acre touch of nature that feels worlds away from campus life. This green space is managed by the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, functioning as both a peaceful retreat and a research area.

The park's 1.5+ miles of trails wind through a century-old forest where oaks and hickories grow alongside tall tulip poplars. Tree enthusiasts might appreciate knowing that the largest scarlet oak tree in Georgia calls this park home - a pretty cool claim to fame for a university forest.

Where to Relax and Play

Lake Herrick is the park's centerpiece, a 15-acre body of water good for fishing or using non-motorized boats. Overlooking these calm waters is a pavilion that makes an ideal spot for gatherings or simply enjoying lunch with a view.

If you're looking to sit and soak in the scenery, you can find benches dotting the lakeside and picnic tables scattered within the grounds. These rest spots are excellent for taking a break or reading.

Hitting the Trails

The trails here offer something for everyone - from easy strolls to more challenging paths with elevation changes that'll get your heart pumping. While most paths are well-maintained, first-timers might wish for better trail markers (consider downloading a trail map before your visit).

Mountain bikers have a dedicated 1.2-mile loop that combines gravel roads and single-track woods trails, but it's worth noting that bikes aren't allowed on many of the walking paths. Dog parents, your furry friends are welcome but must stay leashed - thankfully, there are waste stations across the park so you can clean up easily.

Access for Everyone

One of the park's standout features is its commitment to accessibility. An ADA-compliant boardwalk and bridge - generously donated by the Hargreaves family - extends from the parking area near the tennis courts, ensuring that nature's beauty can be enjoyed by visitors of all mobility levels.

Charming wooden bridges cross over streams and low areas throughout the trail system, adding both function and character to your walk. Parking is free, though you might need to circle around during busy times to find a spot close to the entrance.

Nature and Wildlife Moments

Despite being just a stone's throw from campus buildings, once you're on the trails, the city seems to melt away. Keep your eyes peeled for the local residents - squirrels darting up trees, chipmunks scurrying across paths, and if you're patient, perhaps a gray heron standing statuesque at the lake's edge.

This green oasis provides a much-needed break from Athens' urban pace. The only reminder of city life might be some highway noise that filters into the back trails - but even that seems to fade into the background as you focus on the rustling leaves and birdsong.

Learning in the Wild

For UGA students, especially those studying environmental sciences, the park transforms into an outdoor classroom where textbook concepts come alive. Research projects and hands-on ecology lessons unfold among the trees and beside the lake.

The park also features a challenge course specifically for UGA students, and if you walk the lakeside trails, you might notice painted tires with educational tidbits - little nuggets of knowledge that enhance your connection to this special place.