Red Top Mountain State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Red Top Mountain State Park |
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Lake Allatoona inside Red Top Mountain State Park
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 Red Top Mountain State Park
Location in Georgia (U.S. state)
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| Location | Bartow County, Georgia, USA |
| Nearest city | Emerson, Georgia |
| Area | 1,776 acres (7.19 km2) |
| Governing body | Georgia State Park |
Red Top Mountain State Park is a fun place to visit in Georgia, USA. It is a state park located in the northwestern part of the state. You can find it near the city of Cartersville, not far from the big city of Atlanta.
The park gets its name from the mountain it sits on, which is called Red Top Mountain. This mountain has soil that is rich in iron, giving it a reddish color. The park covers a large area of 1,776 acres (about 7.19 square kilometers). It is on a piece of land that sticks out into Lake Allatoona. This lake is formed by parts of the Etowah River and Allatoona Creek.
A long time ago, in 1864, a battle happened near the park during the American Civil War. It was called the Battle of Allatoona Pass. Today, there is a historical marker across Lake Allatoona where you can learn more about this event. Red Top Mountain State Park is very popular because it is easy to reach from Atlanta, right off Interstate 75. It is one of the most visited parks in Georgia.
Things to Do at the Park
Red Top Mountain State Park offers many activities for visitors. You can enjoy the outdoors and stay overnight if you like.
Camping and Lodging
- Campsites: There are 36 spots for tents, trailers, or RVs.
- Walk-In Campsites: You can also find 52 campsites that are a short walk from where you park.
- Yurt: The park has one Yurt, which is a round tent-like structure.
- Cottages: You can rent one of 18 cozy cottages. They can sleep up to 8 people. Some even allow dogs!
- Pioneer Campground: This area is set up for groups who want a more rustic camping experience.
Fun Activities
- Swimming Beach: During warmer months, you can swim at the park's beach.
- Tennis Courts: Play a game of tennis on the park's courts.
- Picnic Shelters: There are 7 picnic shelters where you can have a meal outdoors.
- Group Shelters: Two larger shelters are available for big groups, seating 100 or 250 people.
- Putt-Putt Course: Enjoy a small miniature golf course.
Yearly Events
The park hosts several special events throughout the year. These events are a great way to learn about the area's history and culture.
- Hills of Iron: This event usually happens in March.
- Springtime at the Homestead: Celebrate spring at the park's historic homestead in April.
- Mountain Music Series: Enjoy live music during the summer months, from May to July.
- Harvest Time at the Homestead: Learn about harvest traditions in September.
- Battle of Allatoona Pass: In October, you can learn more about the historic battle that took place nearby.
