Where Georgia Birding Begins

Magnolia Springs State Park

Home to alligators, turtles and other wildlife, Magnolia Springs State Park offers an enchanting experience into the sights and sounds of nature with its crystal-clear blue spring, tangible reminders of its Civil War history, and exciting recreational adventures.

Admission Fee
Lodging
Visitor or Nature Center
Restrooms
Drinking Fountain or Potable Water
Trails
Boardwalk
Camping
RV Hookups
Picnic Area
Kayaking or Canoeing
a spring and a boardwalk at Magnolia Springs
Magnolia Springs State Park © Photo Courtesy of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites
Handicapped Access: Yes: Visitor Center, Museum, Lodging, Campground, Restrooms, Picnic Shelter, Group Shelter, Boardwalk Trail (0.25 mi), Dock

About This Site

Hours

Open year-round from 7am to 10pm.

Location

(478) 982-1660

eBIRD

View this site on eBird
Magnolia Springs State Park

Amenities

Amenity Available
Admission Fee
Lodging
Visitor or Nature Center
Restrooms
Drinking Fountain or Potable Water
Trails
Boardwalk
Camping
RV Hookups
Picnic Area
Kayaking or Canoeing

Beautiful Magnolia Springs State Park is known for its crystal clear springs, flowing 7 million gallons per day. A boardwalk spans the cool water, allowing visitors to look for alligators, turtles and other wildlife near the springs. A small lake is available for fishing. Overnight guests can choose from cottages and a campground. 

Featured Birds

Barred Owl Barred Owl
Brown-headed Nuthatch Brown-headed Nuthatch
Brown Thrasher Brown Thrasher
Dark-eyed Junco Dark-eyed Junco
Little Blue Heron Little Blue Heron
Red-headed Woodpecker Red-headed Woodpecker
Wood Duck Wood Duck
Wood Stork Wood Stork

During the Civil War, this site was called Camp Lawton and served as “the world’s largest prison.” Today, little remains of the prison stockade; however, the earthen breastworks which guarded it may still be seen. During 2010, Georgia Southern University archeology teams uncovered the stockade wall and numerous personal articles from soldiers. Their discovery has been heralded as one of the most significant finds in recent history. Artifacts are currently on display at the university and at the Camp Lawton museum located at Magnolia Springs State Park.

Iconic birds seen onsite include: White-breasted and Brown-headed Nuthatch, Belted Kingfisher, Pine Warbler, Downy Woodpecker, Common Gallinule, American Goldfinch, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Summer Tanager, and Northern Parula. 

Photo Gallery

This Birding Site Sponsored By

Dover is a diversified global manufacturer that delivers innovative equipment and components, consumable supplies, aftermarket parts, software and digital solutions and support services.