Sandy Creek Nature Center, half a mile north of the Athens bypass, off U.S. 441, offers some 200 acres of woodland and marshland, with a live animal exhibit. It has many nature trails for hikers, and on-site is a cabin nearly 2 centuries old. For more information, call tel. 706/613-3615 or visit www.sandycreeknaturecenter.com.
Visitors can enjoy Sandy Creek Park (tel. 706/613-3631; www.sandycreekpark.com), north on U.S. 441 (signposted). It offers a beach, fishing, playgrounds, softball, volleyball, and shelters for picnics. Paddleboats and canoes can be rented. April to September, hours are Tuesday to Sunday 7am to 9pm. Off-season hours are Tuesday to Sunday 8am to 6pm.
Golf can be played at the Creek Side Country Club (tel. 706/548-6032), an 18-hole, par-72 course at 4080 Barnett-Shoals Rd. Greens fees are $18 to $30, and hours are daily 7:15am to dusk.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
