Amerson River Park

Natural Setting

Tucked away in Macon, Georgia, Amerson River Park spans a generous 180 acres along the Ocmulgee River. The park features forests, open meadows, and wetlands wrapped around a river oxbow.

There's a bit of fascinating history here - the land once housed a Macon Water Authority treatment plant until the flood of 1994 swept it away. After $5.5 million in renovations, the park reopened in 2015 and has become one of Macon's popular outdoor destinations. You'll notice right away how clean and well-maintained everything is.

Scenic Views and Trails

One of the first things you'll notice about Amerson are the views of the Ocmulgee River from several high bluffs around the park. For those looking to get moving, there are 3.5 miles of paved trails complemented by 0.75 miles of mulch paths excellent for walking, jogging, or biking. Many trails weave through shaded areas - a true blessing during Georgia's warmer months.

If you're feeling a bit adventurous, venture beyond the marked routes to discover hidden paths leading down to the riverbanks and Joe's Pond, an intimate space many visitors miss. There's a good mix of sunny and shaded routes, and trail maps posted throughout make navigation easy.

The north end of the park houses a canoe launch on the Ocmulgee River. For a relaxing adventure, try the 2-mile tubing float from the Jay Hall Memorial Canoe Launch to the Bragg Jam Canoe and Tube Takeout. Just remember that life jackets aren't optional - they're required. And take it from us: bringing along a paddle helps navigate around the occasional tree or rock.

Amenities

When it's time to refuel, you'll discover multiple picnic areas and pavilions overlooking the river. The Overlook, Bluff, and Atlanta Gas Light (AGL) Pavilions provide particularly stunning views, making them popular spots for everything from casual family gatherings to full-blown weddings.

Kids will enjoy the playground that's designed to be accessible for children of all physical abilities. The thoughtful shade covers over play equipment mean the fun doesn't have to stop when the sun is high. Clean restrooms nearby add to the convenience for families.

Fitness enthusiasts might appreciate the outdoor fitness area with its selection of exercise equipment - essentially a free gym with a river view. Multiple parking lots across the park make it easy to access different areas, however you might find the playground lot fills up quickly on nice days.

Wildlife and Nature

Amerson offers wonderful opportunities to connect with nature and spot local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for various bird species and the occasional wildlife sighting along the river or within the wooded areas.

Depending on when you visit, you might discover nature's little treats - like the wild blackberry bushes that line some trails in season. The park's native plant garden showcases local flora and adds another layer of natural beauty to explore.

Part of a Larger Trail System

Amerson River Park is an important piece of the larger Ocmulgee Heritage Trail network, but it's worth noting it's not yet connected to the downtown section of trails.

The park also marks the beginning of something quite special - the Ocmulgee River Water Trail, a 200-mile river section that stretches all the way to the confluence with the Oconee river, where together they form the Altamaha.