HIGHLIGHTS:  Magnolia Springs State Park is known for its crystal clear springs which see seven million gallons of water flowing each day into the lake systems of the park. A boardwalk spans this crisp, cool water, and the National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium is managed nearby and is a must-see during the visit here. The reliable water source caused the Confederate Army to use this site during the Civil War as a prison camp for nearly 40,000 Union soldiers, and the remains of the huge facility (which was dubbed ‘the world’s largest prison”) can still be seen today.

The Beaver Trail (which is also known as the Upper Loop) is an easy hike that is great for smaller or older dogs that enjoy a brief trek into the forest. This short roundtrip loop hike starts near the boat dock and hugs Upper Lake as it follows the shoreline in a clockwise direction. The terrain of Magnolia Springs State Park is typical of the coastal plains of Georgia with fertile swamp lands near the water, and sandy, dry ridges a short distance away. Wildlife is abundant with various species of birds, reptiles (including alligators), and mammals inhabiting the area.
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