Watson Mill Bridge State Park

Watson Mill Bridge State Park is named for its landmark covered bridge — at 229 feet the longest original-site covered bridge in Georgia, and one of fewer than 20 covered bridges remaining in the state. Occupying more than 1,000 acres of rolling Piedmont along the South Fork River, with wooded trails for hiking, biking, or horseback-riding (bring your own), Watson Mill Bridge is one of the state's prettiest parks. A short nature trail leads up along the sluiceway to what remains of the powerhouse here, and the old mill pond is now a scenic spot for fishing and canoeing (rental boats available). In summer, a ride down the river's gentle ...

Watson Mill Bridge State Park is named for its landmark covered bridge — at 229 feet the longest original-site covered bridge in Georgia, and one of fewer than 20 covered bridges remaining in the state. Occupying more than 1,000 acres of rolling Piedmont along the South Fork River, with wooded trails for hiking, biking, or horseback-riding (bring your own), Watson Mill Bridge is one of the state's prettiest parks. A short nature trail leads up along the sluiceway to what remains of the powerhouse here, and the old mill pond is now a scenic spot for fishing and canoeing (rental boats available). In summer, a ride down the river's gentle shoals is a great way to cool off. The park's proximity to the lively college town of Athens and the arty outpost of Watkinsville makes it a great day trip or camping destination. There's even a log cabin bunkhouse you can rent (reserve early).

About the Expert

Kap Stann has written or contributed to many guidebooks to the American Southeast for such publishers as Moon, Avalon Travel, Lonely Planet, DK Eyewitness, and Mobil Guides.